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 Marshall County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Marshall 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 Marshall County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Marshall County Jail
   2369 Jessup Ave
   Marshalltown, IA 50158
   Phone: (641) 754-6380

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Marshall 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 (641) 754-6380 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 Marshall 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 Marshall County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at Marshall County Jail typically center on addressing the underlying factors that contribute to criminal behavior while preparing residents for successful community reintegration. The facility's approach emphasizes skill development and personal growth through structured programming that may deliver both immediate support and long-term benefits. These initiatives often include multiple components designed to address educational gaps, mental health needs, and employment readiness.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's programming, with residents often having access to basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult education opportunities. These academic initiatives may deliver foundational skills that many participants previously lacked, helping them build confidence and improve their prospects for employment upon release. Furthermore, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trades and technical skills, allowing residents to develop marketable abilities that can lead to stable employment. The combination of educational and vocational initiatives often creates a comprehensive foundation for residents to build upon as they prepare to return to their communities.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives round out the facility's programming approach, with mental health services typically addressing substance abuse issues, trauma, and other psychological challenges that residents may face. Library services often provide additional educational resources and recreational reading materials that support ongoing learning and personal development. Furthermore, veteran services may deliver specialized support for military veterans, recognizing their unique needs and experiences. These therapeutic and support initiatives work together to address the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior while promoting positive behavioral changes and community connections.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules now govern every aspect of residential life, with consistent wake-up calls, meal times, and programmed activities that residents regularly follow throughout each day. This predictable framework typically includes designated periods for personal hygiene, unit cleaning, and preparation for various facility assignments or educational programming.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, with personal storage space for approved belongings and commissary items. Residents usually receive three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that may vary but consistently provide nutritionally balanced options. Furthermore, living spaces typically include common areas where residents can interact during approved recreational periods and access television or reading materials.

Programming schedules often deliver educational classes, vocational training, and counseling sessions that help structure daily routines beyond basic facility operations. Recreation opportunities may include outdoor exercise periods, indoor fitness activities, and organized games when space and staffing permit. Although visitation policies typically limit contact to scheduled times, residents generally maintain family connections through phone calls and written correspondence, with commissary privileges allowing them to purchase personal items and snacks that enhance their daily comfort within the facility's guidelines.