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 Kittitas County Corrections.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Kittitas 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 Kittitas County Corrections.

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

   Mailing address:

   Kittitas County Corrections
   205 W 5th Ave
   Ellensburg, WA 98926
   Phone: (509) 962-7527

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Kittitas 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 (509) 962-7527 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 Kittitas 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 Kittitas County Corrections for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Kittitas County Corrections. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities that inmates can use both during incarceration and after release. This approach recognizes that meaningful change happens when people have access to education, job training, and support services that address their individual needs.

Educational services play a central role in helping inmates develop essential skills for their future. Adult basic education programs may provide opportunities for inmates to work toward completing their high school equivalency or improving fundamental reading and math abilities. These educational offerings often serve as stepping stones to more advanced learning opportunities. Job readiness training typically complements the educational services by teaching practical workplace skills, interview techniques, and professional communication methods that employers value.

In addition to educational and vocational services, the facility may offer various support programs designed to address personal challenges. Work programs often provide inmates with hands-on experience in maintaining facility operations while developing a strong work ethic. Religious services typically offer spiritual guidance and community support for those who choose to participate. Domestic violence programs may help inmates understand healthy relationship patterns and develop conflict resolution skills. These support services often work together to create a comprehensive approach to personal development and positive behavioral change.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Kittitas County Corrections feature dormitory-style accommodations where inmates navigate shared living spaces with structured supervision. Today's routine begins with early morning counts and consistently follows a predictable schedule that provides stability within the correctional environment. Inmates typically wake to announcements over the facility's intercom system, followed by hygiene time and preparation for the day's activities.

Living conditions generally include shared sleeping quarters with basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas for personal belongings, and common areas for recreation. Meals are served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with inmates moving in supervised groups to maintain order and security. The facility typically provides three meals daily, with menus that meet basic nutritional requirements. In addition to this structured meal schedule, inmates may access commissary items when funds are available through their accounts.

Despite this controlled environment, inmates often find opportunities for personal development through work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility cleaning responsibilities. Recreation time usually includes access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and outdoor exercise when weather permits. Family connections remain important, with visitation typically occurring on scheduled days and phone privileges generally available during designated hours. These programs and activities provide inmates with ways to maintain relationships and structure their time constructively while serving their sentences.