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 Macon State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Macon State Prison 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 Macon State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Macon State Prison

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 Macon State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Macon State Prison?

   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 Macon State Prison?

   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 Macon State Prison. 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 Macon State Prison. 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 Macon State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Macon State Prison
   2728 GA-49
   Oglethorpe, GA 31068
   Phone: (478) 472-3400

5. What are the visiting hours at Macon State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Macon State Prison 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 (478) 472-3400 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 Macon State Prison?

   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 Macon State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Macon State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Macon State Prison 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 Macon State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Macon State Prison, 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 Macon State Prison?

   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 Macon State Prison 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 Macon State Prison, 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 comprehensive educational and vocational programming at Valdosta State Prison centers on preparing individuals for successful reintegration through evidence-based approaches. The facility provides General Education Diploma (GED) programs alongside specialized evidence-based counseling services, while the Residential Substance Abuse Center offers targeted treatment for 100 participants. Mental health services are extensively available through dedicated housing units that accommodate 264 individuals, complemented by Crisis Stabilization and Acute Care units for those requiring intensive support.

Vocational training opportunities may include work assignments in horticulture, food service, maintenance, and barbering, providing practical skills development. The facility's connection to Georgia Correctional Industries through its chemical plant operations typically offers additional job training in manufacturing processes. Outside work details with the Department of Transportation, City of Valdosta, and Lowndes County may provide community service experience while building employment readiness skills.

Support services often encompass mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment programming, and specialized interventions for individuals with developmental disabilities. The facility's multi-tiered approach may include individual and group counseling sessions, cognitive-behavioral programming, and pre-release preparation services. Library services, recreational activities, and religious programming typically complement the educational and vocational offerings, creating a comprehensive framework designed to address the diverse needs of the population while promoting personal growth and accountability.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at Valdosta State Prison begin their weekends with the possibility of family visits, as the facility opens its doors to visitors on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For those with family members who can visit during weekdays, tier visitation is available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, though these visits must be scheduled 24 hours in advance. The prison's housing arrangement places inmates in various units depending on their security classification and needs, with general population residents living in one of ten units containing 500 beds, while those requiring mental health services may be housed in specialized units with 264 beds designed for therapeutic support.

Work assignments typically provide structure to the daily routine, with inmates participating in inside details such as food service, laundry operations, grounds maintenance, and barbering services. Those housed at the Annex facility may have opportunities for outside work details, including assignments with the Department of Transportation, local government agencies, and the Georgia Correctional Industries chemical plant that manufactures cleaning supplies. Educational programming often fills additional hours, with inmates able to pursue their General Education Diploma through academic classes offered at the facility.

The close security environment means that movement and activities are carefully scheduled and supervised, with inmates following established routines for meals, recreation, and programming. Those participating in the Residential Substance Abuse Program at the Annex receive specialized treatment services as part of their daily schedule. Mental health services are integrated into the routine for inmates requiring such support, with crisis stabilization and acute care units available for those experiencing more intensive needs.