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 Jackson County Corrections.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jackson County Corrections 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 Jackson County Corrections.

Frequently asked questions about Jackson County Corrections

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 Jackson County Corrections.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jackson County Corrections?

   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 Jackson County Corrections?

   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 Jackson County Corrections. 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 Jackson County Corrections. 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 Jackson County Corrections?

   Mailing address:

   Jackson County Corrections
   1300 Cherry St
   KCMO, MO 64106
   Phone: (816) 881-4200

   Business hours:

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

5. What are the visiting hours at Jackson County Corrections?

   Visiting hours at Jackson County Corrections 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 (816) 881-4200 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 Jackson County Corrections?

   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 Jackson County Corrections for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jackson County Corrections?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jackson County Corrections 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 Jackson County Corrections?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Jackson County Corrections, 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 Jackson County Corrections?

   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 Jackson County Corrections 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 Jackson County Corrections, 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

The Jackson County Detention Center provides essential financial services and commissary access to support inmates during their stay. Through their weekly commissary system, inmates can purchase necessary items with a maximum spending limit of $60 per week, with orders processed once funds are available in their accounts. The facility has streamlined the payment process through multiple convenient options, including online deposits through Access Corrections, phone payments, and on-site kiosks in the visitation lobby, ensuring families can easily support their loved ones.

Beyond these basic services, Jackson County Detention may offer educational programs designed to help inmates develop essential skills and prepare for reintegration into the community. These programs often include GED preparation classes, basic literacy instruction, and vocational training opportunities that align with local job market demands. The facility typically provides access to library services and educational materials to support ongoing learning initiatives.

Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are commonly available at facilities like Jackson County Detention, recognizing the significant role these issues play in the justice system. Inmates may have access to individual and group counseling sessions, addiction recovery programs, and crisis intervention services. The facility often coordinates with local healthcare providers and social service agencies to ensure continuity of care upon release, helping inmates develop the support systems necessary for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Jackson County Detention Center operates with structured financial systems that shape inmates' access to basic necessities and family connections. With commissary orders limited to once per week and capped at $60 maximum, residents must carefully plan their purchases of personal items, snacks, and hygiene products. Money for these accounts can be deposited through multiple channels including online platforms like Access Corrections, phone deposits at 1-866-345-1884, or the on-site kiosk in the visitation lobby, though all transactions require funds to be available before any commissary orders can be placed.

The facility's bond posting procedures reflect the around-the-clock nature of detention operations, with 24/7 online card payment options available through accesscorrections.com, though additional fees typically apply. For those posting bonds during regular business hours Monday through Friday, the process routes through Criminal Records at 1315 Locust Street, requiring verification calls to 816-881-4201 before and after posting to ensure proper processing. This system affects the daily rhythm of the facility, as inmates and families navigate the requirements for potential release while managing the practical aspects of detention.

Located at 1300 Cherry Street in Kansas City, Missouri, the detention center provides various payment options for families seeking to support their incarcerated loved ones, including cash and card payments through the lobby kiosk, though a 7% vendor fee applies and the machine doesn't accept $1 bills. The facility's structured approach to financial transactions and commissary access creates a framework within which inmates manage their basic needs while maintaining connections to family members who may assist with account deposits and support during their stay.