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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections.

Frequently asked questions about Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections?

   Mailing address:

   Louisville Metro Department of Corrections
   400 S 6th St
   Louisville, KY 40202
   Phone: (502) 574-8477

   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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections?

   Visiting hours at Louisville Metro Department of 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 (502) 574-8477 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Louisville Metro Department of Corrections?

   You can send money to an inmate at Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of Corrections?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 Louisville Metro Department of 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 transformation begins with opportunity, and those incarcerated at Louisville Metro Corrections may access various offerings designed to foster meaningful change during their time in custody. The facility typically emphasizes structure and safety while creating an environment where participants can develop essential life skills and address underlying challenges. These offerings often focus on providing practical tools and knowledge that support successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of available opportunities, with education services that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and academic coursework delivered through structured programming. Financial literacy components often help participants develop money management skills and understand budgeting principles essential for independent living. Also, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trades and technical skills, while printing services may offer specialized instruction in document production and related technologies that can translate into employment opportunities.

Support services extend beyond traditional academics to address comprehensive rehabilitation needs. Substance abuse treatment offerings often include counseling sessions, group therapy, and educational components designed to help participants understand addiction and develop coping strategies. These therapeutic interventions typically work alongside other support programming to create a structured environment focused on personal accountability and positive behavioral change. The facility may furnish these services through qualified staff who emphasize both individual progress and community safety throughout the rehabilitation process.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and peer relationships form the cornerstone of daily experiences for those incarcerated at Louisville Metro Corrections. These social bonds provide crucial emotional support during what can be a challenging period of confinement. The facility's structure typically accommodates various forms of interaction that help residents maintain ties with their communities and develop new supportive relationships within the institution.

Those incarcerated now follow a structured daily routine that generally begins with morning count and meal service. The schedule regularly includes designated times for housing unit activities, educational programming, and recreational periods. Living accommodations typically consist of dormitory-style housing or smaller unit arrangements, depending on classification levels and available space. Residents usually share common areas within their housing units, which may include television viewing areas and spaces for social interaction. Meals are generally served in communal dining areas, providing opportunities for social engagement during breakfast, lunch, and dinner periods.

Also available are various work assignments and structured programming that furnish both routine and skill development opportunities. Those incarcerated may participate in facility maintenance, food service, or other institutional jobs that offer structure to their days. However, maintaining outside connections remains equally important through visitation programs and communication options such as phone calls and correspondence. Recreation and exercise opportunities typically include access to outdoor areas, indoor recreational spaces, and organized activities that promote both physical wellness and social interaction among residents.