MCC Chicago, IL

Before visiting MCC Chicago, you must be cleared by the Bureau of Prisons and added to the inmate's approved visiting list. False statements on the visitor form can carry federal criminal penalties. Visits typically require advance scheduling and follow specific time windows; depending on current rules, visits may be remote video or on-site booths. Inmates are entitled to at least four hours of visiting time per month by law, though the Warden can limit visit length or the number of visitors. Expect a dress code and searches—refusing a search or breaking rules means you'll be denied entry. Handshakes, hugs, and brief kisses are generally allowed at the start and end of visits, but staff can restrict contact for security reasons. Conjugal visits are not permitted.

Staying in touch with someone at MCC Chicago typically means phone calls and secure electronic messaging. Inmates have telephone privileges, and routine calls are monitored. Unmonitored attorney calls may be allowed under certain circumstances based on facility policy. MCC Chicago also uses TRULINCS for secured messaging—the inmate must be approved to use the system, and you must consent to monitoring. Messages are text-only and subject to size limits. The institution's P4500.12 references TRULINCS-related Trust Fund forms like the TRULINCS Contact Request Form (BP-A1054). To get set up, follow the vendor and facility steps to create an account, complete identity verification, and make sure the incarcerated person adds your number to their approved call list. TRUFONE call recordings are stored temporarily and deleted after 180 days unless kept for legal or administrative reasons.

MCC Chicago classifies correspondence as general or special. General mail gets opened and inspected. Special incoming mail that's clearly marked is opened only in the inmate's presence. Packages from home aren't allowed without prior written approval—limited exceptions include release clothing and authorized medical devices. The facility also supports TRULINCS for approved inmates and contacts; messages are text-only, monitored, and size-limited. At similar IDOC facilities, personal mail may be scanned and uploaded as PDF images for viewing on tablets, with paper photocopies available on request. Originals, legal mail, and requests for physical copies follow separate procedures and may require an inmate request form and staff approval.

MCC Chicago accepts electronic money transfers through MoneyGram ExpressPayment. Deposits sent between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. EST generally post within 2–4 hours. Anything sent after 9:00 p.m. EST posts at 7:00 a.m. the next day. To make sure your payment reaches the right person, enter the inmate's eight-digit register number (no spaces or dashes) immediately followed by their last name in the recipient field, and use Receive Code 7932. Funds go into the inmate trust/commissary system and support access to commissary, telephone, and laundry services. Posting times can vary by vendor, so double-check the recipient details before sending.