How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Houston County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Houston County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Houston County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Houston County Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Houston County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Houston County Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Houston County Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Houston County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Houston County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Houston County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Houston County Jail
   901 E Main St
   Dothan, AL 36301
   Phone: (334) 712-0762

5. What are the visiting hours at Houston County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Houston County Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (334) 712-0762 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Houston County Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Houston County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Houston County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Houston County Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Houston County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Houston County Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Houston County Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Houston County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Houston County Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal transformation begins with access to meaningful opportunities, and those incarcerated at Houston County Detention in Alabama may find pathways to rebuild their lives through structured programming. The facility typically emphasizes security and safety while providing a framework for positive change. These offerings often focus on developing practical skills and addressing underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

Educational advancement serves as a cornerstone of the facility's approach to rehabilitation. Those incarcerated may access education programs designed to help complete basic literacy requirements or work toward equivalency credentials. The structured environment provides a foundation for learning, with educational offerings typically delivered in secure classroom settings that maintain safety protocols.

Support services complement the educational framework through various specialized programs. Work release opportunities may allow eligible participants to maintain employment connections while serving their sentences. Also, faith-based programs often provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this type of assistance. Mentoring programs typically connect participants with guidance from trained volunteers or staff members. Employment readiness offerings may furnish job search skills, interview preparation, and workplace behavior training to help those incarcerated prepare for successful reentry into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family and fellow residents remains a central focus for those incarcerated at Houston County Detention. Today's structured environment consistently provides opportunities for social interaction through shared meals, recreational activities, and organized programming. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with early morning counts and breakfast service, followed by work assignments or educational programs that furnish both purpose and community engagement.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell arrangements, where individuals often develop supportive relationships with their peers. Meals are typically served in common dining areas three times daily, creating natural opportunities for conversation and maintaining social bonds. Also, recreational periods usually include access to television viewing areas, outdoor exercise yards when weather permits, and indoor fitness facilities that encourage group activities and physical wellness.

The facility typically offers various work assignments within the kitchen, laundry, maintenance, and cleaning departments that may provide small wages and valuable job skills. However, maintaining outside connections often proves equally important through regular visitation schedules and telephone privileges that allow communication with family members and friends. Those incarcerated generally have access to commissary services for personal items and snacks, while structured programming may include educational classes, religious services, and counseling sessions designed to support both personal growth and community building within the facility.