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 Lincoln Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lincoln Correctional Center 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 Lincoln Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Lincoln Correctional Center

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 Lincoln Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lincoln Correctional Center?

   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 Lincoln Correctional Center?

   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 Lincoln Correctional Center. 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 Lincoln Correctional Center. 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 Lincoln Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Lincoln Correctional Center
   1098 1350th St
   Lincoln, IL 62656
   Phone: (217) 735-5411

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Lincoln Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Lincoln Correctional Center 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 (217) 735-5411 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 Lincoln Correctional Center?

   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 Lincoln Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lincoln Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lincoln Correctional Center 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 Lincoln Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lincoln Correctional Center, 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 Lincoln Correctional Center?

   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 Lincoln Correctional Center 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 Lincoln Correctional Center, 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

Based on the facility's commitment to instilling responsibility and mature decision-making in residents, Lincoln Correctional Center emphasizes extensive educational programs and meaningful work assignment opportunities as core components of its rehabilitation approach. The facility recognizes that preparing individuals for successful reintegration requires comprehensive programming that addresses both skill development and personal growth. This minimum-security facility serves an adult male population and maintains a focus on providing high-quality services that support positive behavioral change.

Educational programming at Lincoln Correctional Center typically includes basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult basic education courses designed to help residents achieve academic milestones. The facility may also offer vocational training programs that provide hands-on experience in trades such as maintenance, food service, or facility operations. Work assignments give residents the opportunity to develop job skills and work experience while contributing to facility operations. These programs often include positions in areas like grounds maintenance, kitchen services, laundry operations, and general facility upkeep.

Support services at the facility may include substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and reentry planning assistance to help residents prepare for their return to the community. The facility likely provides access to library services, recreational activities, and religious programming to support overall well-being. Healthcare services are typically available on-site, and the facility maintains communication opportunities for residents through its video visitation system and electronic messaging services. These comprehensive services work together to create an environment focused on rehabilitation and successful community reintegration for the individuals in custody.

Daily Life & Visitation

The morning routine at Lincoln Correctional Center begins early for the 798 adult male residents, who follow structured schedules designed to promote responsibility and mature decision-making. As a minimum-security facility that opened in September 1984, Lincoln emphasizes rehabilitation through extensive educational programs and work assignments that prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society. The facility's mission centers on providing humane and secure incarceration while offering meaningful opportunities for personal growth and skill development.

Family connections remain a vital part of the rehabilitation process, with Lincoln Correctional Center offering multiple ways for residents to maintain contact with loved ones. Video visitation operates seven days a week with three daily sessions: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, though visitors must sign up in advance and log on 15 minutes before their scheduled time. The facility has transitioned to ICSolutions for technology services, providing electronic messaging through ICS CorrLinks to help residents stay connected with family and friends. Traditional mail correspondence continues through the facility's P.O. Box 549 address in Lincoln, Illinois.

Work assignments and educational programming typically fill much of the daily schedule, with residents participating in various vocational training opportunities and academic courses designed to build practical skills for employment after release. The facility's focus on responsibility and decision-making extends through all aspects of daily life, from structured meal times and recreational periods to supervised work details that may include facility maintenance, food service, or other operational support roles. Evening hours often include additional programming, study time, or recreational activities, all designed to create a constructive environment that supports the facility's rehabilitation mission.