Setting Up SmartInmate for Messaging at Highlands County Jail: A First-Timer's Guide

SmartInmate is an online communications system that connects family and friends with incarcerated individuals. If you're new to jail messaging, the biggest benefit is convenience: you can manage your account online and send messages without coordinating calls or mail for every update. The platform supports near-real-time communication, so day-to-day contact feels more immediate. The goal is simple: help you get connected in minutes and keep the conversation going once you're set up.

Signing up for SmartInmate is quick, easy, and free. Head to the SmartInmate website, choose the sign-up option, and follow the prompts to create your account.

1. Go to SmartInmate online - Start on the SmartInmate website so you’re using the official online communications system.
2. Create your free account - Complete the sign-up fields and submit your registration. SmartInmate describes this as quick and free.
3. Confirm your account details - If you’re prompted to verify or confirm anything (like your email), do that right away so you can message without delays.
4. Find the person you want to message - Use the search tools in your account to locate your loved one (try different name spellings if needed).
5. Write and send your first message - Once you’re connected, you can start corresponding. SmartInmate highlights near-real-time messaging, which can make it easier to stay in touch day to day.

SmartInmate says you can connect in minutes and correspond every day in near real time. That's the expectation for message speed once your account is active and linked to the right person.

Troubleshoot Verify

• ✓ Double-check spelling (try nicknames, middle initials, and common variations)
• ✓ If you have it, try searching with an inmate number instead of just a name
• ✓ Make sure your SmartInmate account is fully set up (any verification steps completed)
• ✓ Sign out and sign back in, then try again
• ✓ If your message will not send, review what you typed for anything that could trigger a rejection (extra long text, unusual characters)
• ✓ If you still cannot find your loved one or messaging is not going through, contact the jail to confirm what messaging options are currently available