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 Inyo County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Inyo 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 Inyo County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Inyo County Jail
   550 S Clay St
   Independence, CA 93526
   Phone: (760) 878-0370

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

   Visiting hours at Inyo 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 (760) 878-0370 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 Inyo 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 Inyo County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Inyo 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 Inyo County Jail?

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

Support for the population at Inyo County Jail flows through a comprehensive network of rehabilitation programs designed to address the diverse needs of individuals during their incarceration. The facility's approach centers on providing practical tools and resources that help participants develop essential life skills while maintaining connections to their families and communities. These programs typically emphasize personal growth and preparation for successful reintegration, recognizing that meaningful change often begins with access to education, vocational training, and therapeutic support services.

Educational initiatives form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with high school diploma programs providing participants the opportunity to complete their secondary education in a structured environment. These academic programs may supply foundational literacy and numeracy skills that serve as building blocks for future success. Moreover, vocational training opportunities often include hands-on instruction in practical trades and job skills, helping the population develop marketable abilities that can lead to employment upon release.

The facility's support services typically encompass rehabilitation programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior, while specialized courses in time management and conflict resolution equip participants with essential interpersonal and organizational skills. Volunteer programs may offer additional avenues for community engagement and personal development, creating opportunities for the population to give back while building positive relationships. These therapeutic and support-focused initiatives work together to create a comprehensive framework that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured supervision and clearly defined protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Inyo County Jail. Daily routines now follow established schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. The population regularly participates in organized activities that supply both structure and purpose to their days. Security procedures are integrated seamlessly into these routines, generally including periodic counts and movement protocols between different areas of the facility.

Housing arrangements typically consist of dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. The population usually shares common areas for dining and recreation, whereas personal living spaces may vary in configuration. Meals are generally served at designated times in communal dining areas, with the population following established procedures for movement and seating. Moreover, commissary services typically allow individuals to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their basic needs.

Programming schedules often include educational opportunities, recreational activities, and work assignments that help structure daily life. The population may participate in facility maintenance duties, kitchen operations, or cleaning assignments that supply both routine and skills development. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled family contact, typically conducted through secure video systems or in-person visits following established security protocols. Communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping the population maintain important family connections and support systems during their stay at the facility.