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 Isabella County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Isabella 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 Isabella County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Isabella County Jail
   207 Court St
   Mt Pleasant, MI 48858
   Phone: (989) 772-5915

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Isabella 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 (989) 772-5915 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 Isabella 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 Isabella County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Communication with loved ones serves as a cornerstone of support for individuals housed at Isabella County Jail in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. The facility maintains a structured mail system that enables inmates to receive correspondence from family, friends, and legal representatives, with specific protocols designed to ensure security while preserving these vital connections. Beginning in April 2025, the jail will implement a centralized mail processing system, with standard correspondence routed through Kentucky for screening before delivery to inmates.

The facility typically provides various support services that may include educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and mental health resources to assist individuals during their incarceration. Like many Michigan correctional facilities, Isabella County Jail often offers access to library materials, religious services, and recreational activities that support personal development and rehabilitation goals. The jail may also provide vocational training opportunities and life skills programming designed to prepare individuals for successful reentry into the community.

Beyond communication services, the facility generally maintains programs that address the diverse needs of its population, which may include medical and mental health care, dietary accommodations, and case management services. Inmates typically have access to legal resources and may participate in group counseling sessions or individual therapy when available. The jail's approach often emphasizes maintaining family connections through visitation programs and video chat services, recognizing the importance of community support in successful rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with family and friends forms a cornerstone of the inmate experience at Isabella County Jail in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Beginning April 1st, 2025, the facility will implement a new mail processing system where standard correspondence from friends and family must be directed to a processing center in Highland Heights, Kentucky, while legal mail and money orders continue to be sent directly to the facility at 5270 East Remus Road. All incoming mail undergoes thorough inspection and must meet strict guidelines including proper addressing with inmate names and ID numbers, return addresses, and size restrictions of no larger than 8½ x 11 inches. Items such as stamps, blank envelopes, stationery, and any form of currency except money orders are prohibited and will result in mail destruction.

The facility typically operates on a structured daily schedule that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and educational or work programs when available. Inmates often have access to various services through the jail's inmate services department, which can be contacted at (989) 772-5915 for information. The facility commonly provides visitation opportunities and video chat services to help maintain family connections, though specific scheduling and procedures may vary. Living conditions generally follow standard correctional protocols with housing assignments based on factors such as security classification and available space.

Beyond mail correspondence, inmates may have access to other communication methods and programs designed to support rehabilitation and maintain community ties. The facility's location in Mt. Pleasant allows for potential family visits from the surrounding Isabella County area, and the jail typically works to balance security requirements with the need to preserve important family relationships during incarceration. Account deposit services are available to help families provide financial support for commissary purchases and other approved expenses during an inmate's stay.