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 Indian River County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Indian River 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 Indian River County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Indian River 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 Indian River County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Indian River County Jail
   4055 41st Ave
   Vero Beach, FL 32960
   Phone: (772) 569-6700

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Indian River County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Indian River 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 (772) 569-6700 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 Indian River 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 Indian River County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Indian River 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 Indian River County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Indian River 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 Indian River 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 Indian River 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 Indian River 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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address the diverse needs of individuals in custody, supportive services create pathways for personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach that recognizes each person's potential for positive change. These programs often focus on building essential life skills, addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration, and fostering connections that strengthen family and community ties.

Education programs serve as a cornerstone of the facility's commitment to empowerment and opportunity. The population may access basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and vocational training that develops marketable skills for future employment. These educational initiatives often include computer literacy courses and job readiness workshops that help participants prepare for successful workforce entry upon release. Additionally, the programs typically emphasize practical skills that support long-term stability and personal development.

Support services and therapeutic programs work together to address the complex challenges many individuals face during incarceration and beyond. Substance abuse treatment programs may offer counseling, group therapy sessions, and educational components that help participants understand addiction and develop coping strategies. Work release opportunities often allow eligible individuals to maintain employment while serving their sentences, preserving family income and workplace relationships. The chaplaincy programs typically provide spiritual guidance and emotional support, while landscaping programs may offer outdoor work experience that develops both practical skills and a sense of accomplishment through meaningful contribution to facility maintenance.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization forms the backbone of every interaction within the Indian River County Jail, where structured schedules now govern each aspect of the population's daily experience. The facility operates on a carefully managed routine that typically begins with early morning counts and meal service. Throughout the day, the population regularly participates in scheduled activities, medical appointments, and court appearances as needed. Security protocols ensure orderly movement between housing units and common areas, while staff supervision maintains consistent oversight of all daily operations.

Housing arrangements generally place the population in dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living accommodations typically include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities within each housing unit. The population usually has access to personal property allowances, which may include approved clothing items, hygiene products, and limited personal effects. Additionally, commissary services supply supplemental items that can enhance daily comfort, while telephone access and mail services help maintain connections with family members and legal representatives.

Structured programming schedules supply the population with various opportunities for personal development and physical activity. Recreation periods typically occur in designated areas where exercise equipment and outdoor spaces may be available for use. While educational programs and work assignments often provide productive ways to spend time, these opportunities generally depend on individual eligibility and facility needs. Visitation policies usually allow scheduled meetings with family members and approved visitors, though specific arrangements typically require advance coordination. The facility's organizational approach ensures that daily routines remain predictable while accommodating the diverse needs of the population throughout their stay.