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 Marlin Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Marlin Unit 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 Marlin Unit.

Frequently asked questions about Marlin Unit

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 Marlin Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Marlin Unit?

   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 Marlin Unit?

   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 Marlin Unit. 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 Marlin Unit. 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 Marlin Unit?

   Mailing address:

   Marlin Unit
   2893 Hwy 6
   Marlin, TX 76661
   Phone: (254) 883-3858

5. What are the visiting hours at Marlin Unit?

   Visiting hours at Marlin Unit 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 (254) 883-3858 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 Marlin Unit?

   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 Marlin Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Marlin Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at Marlin Unit 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 Marlin Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Marlin Unit, 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 Marlin Unit?

   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 Marlin Unit 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 Marlin Unit, 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 Marlin Unit. The facility typically emphasizes practical learning opportunities that help inmates build confidence and prepare for successful community reintegration. Services are often designed to address both immediate needs and long-term goals, creating pathways for positive change during incarceration.

Educational and vocational services may provide inmates with marketable skills for employment after release. Vocational training programs often focus on trades and technical skills that align with local job market demands. These hands-on learning opportunities typically combine classroom instruction with practical application, helping participants develop both technical competencies and work habits that employers value.

Additionally, the facility may offer specialized therapeutic services, including sex offender treatment programs designed to address underlying behavioral issues. Work programs often provide inmates with structured daily activities and job skills development opportunities. Faith-based initiatives typically offer spiritual guidance and community support, while arts and crafts activities may serve as both recreational outlets and means of creative expression. These diverse services work together to support personal development and help inmates build the foundation for positive life changes.

Daily Life & Visitation

The concrete housing units and shared living spaces at Marlin Unit shape every aspect of an inmate's daily experience. At present, inmates actively participate in a structured routine that typically begins with early morning counts and meal service. The facility generally operates on a schedule that includes work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods throughout the day.

Living accommodations typically consist of multi-person cells or dormitory-style housing units where inmates share basic amenities and personal space. Inmates usually adapt to these close quarters by establishing routines around meal times, which are served in designated dining areas at scheduled intervals. Additionally, the facility provides recreational opportunities that may include outdoor exercise periods, gymnasium access, and various indoor activities that help inmates maintain physical fitness and social connections.

While daily life follows institutional guidelines, inmates often find structure through work assignments that may include facility maintenance, food service, or other operational duties. The facility typically offers educational and vocational programming that provides inmates with opportunities for personal development. Family connections remain important, with visitation policies generally allowing scheduled visits and phone communication options. Inmates can usually access commissary services to purchase personal items and maintain contact with loved ones through approved correspondence methods.