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 Lauderdale County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Lauderdale 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 Lauderdale County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Lauderdale County Jail
   653 S Seminary St
   Florence, AL 35630
   Phone: (256) 760-5771

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

   Visiting hours at Lauderdale 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 (256) 760-5771 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 Lauderdale 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 Lauderdale County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

From basic literacy instruction to advanced therapeutic interventions, the breadth of developmental opportunities at Lauderdale County Jail reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals. This comprehensive approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires multiple pathways for growth and skill development. The facility typically structures its programming to create interconnected opportunities that support both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with education programs designed to address varying literacy levels and academic backgrounds. Individuals may participate in college correspondence courses that allow them to pursue higher education credits while incarcerated. These academic opportunities often complement basic educational services, creating a continuum of learning that can accommodate individuals at different stages of their educational journey. Moreover, the structured nature of these programs helps participants develop discipline and goal-setting skills that extend beyond the classroom setting.

Therapeutic and support services provide additional layers of comprehensive programming through group therapy sessions that address behavioral and emotional challenges. Work release opportunities may offer individuals the chance to maintain employment connections while serving their sentences, supporting both personal responsibility and family stability. The facility often includes faith-based programs for those seeking spiritual guidance, while facility maintenance work provides practical skills and structure. Physical fitness opportunities round out the programming by promoting health and stress management, contributing to overall well-being during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of keys and footsteps marks the beginning of each day, as individuals housed at Lauderdale County Jail now find themselves adjusting to a highly structured environment. Wake-up calls typically occur in the early morning hours, followed by head counts that happen regularly throughout the day. The facility generally operates on a regimented schedule that includes designated times for meals, recreation, and various programming activities. Individuals usually receive orientation materials upon arrival to help them understand the daily expectations and available services.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Each housing area generally includes basic amenities such as restroom facilities, common areas for television viewing, and spaces for personal belongings. Individuals may store approved personal items in designated areas, while commissary services often provide access to additional hygiene products, snacks, and writing materials. Moreover, the facility usually maintains different housing units to separate individuals based on various factors including security level and specific needs.

Recreational opportunities typically offer structured physical activity during designated periods, which may include outdoor time when weather permits and indoor activities during inclement conditions. Work assignments within the facility often provide individuals with opportunities to maintain daily routines while contributing to facility operations through tasks such as kitchen duties, cleaning, or laundry services. Whereas recreation focuses on physical wellness, visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain connections through scheduled visits, while telephone access and mail services typically provide additional communication options. Programming schedules may include educational opportunities, life skills classes, or other structured activities designed to offer productive use of time during incarceration.