How to Address Mail to Someone at MCF Faribault (And Why 'Minnesota' Can't Be Abbreviated)
Want your letter to actually reach someone at MCF Faribault? The envelope needs to be addressed exactly how Minnesota DOC expects. That means the person's full name, their MN DOC Offender ID (OID) number, the facility name, and - this is the quirky part - "Minnesota" spelled out in full. No "MN." These details help mail get matched and routed correctly during processing.
Full name: Use the incarcerated person’s full name on the envelope so staff can identify the right person and route the mail correctly.
OID number: Include the MN DOC Offender ID (OID) number on the address line. This is how mail processing matches your letter to the right person.
Facility name + “Minnesota” spelled out: Include the facility name and write “Minnesota” (not “MN”). The DOC specifically says not to abbreviate the state.
The Minnesota DOC handbook shows the format they want: name on the first line with the OID number, then the facility name with "Minnesota" written out. Here's their example: John Doe OID# 000000 MCF-St. Cloud, Minnesota P.O. Box 247 Phoenix, MD 21131
Use the format, swap the details: The DOC’s printed example uses MCF–St. Cloud to demonstrate formatting. For your letter, keep the same structure but substitute “MCF Faribault,” include your loved one’s OID number, and write “Minnesota” in full.
The Minnesota DOC's instruction is clear: write "Minnesota" and don't abbreviate it. This isn't a style preference - it's part of their mail processing format. If you want to avoid returns and delays, spelling it out is one of the easiest things you can do.
Tip: Write “Minnesota” every time, even if you normally shorten it to “MN” on other mail.
Here's something to know before you send anything: mail going to people in Minnesota DOC facilities (including MCF Faribault) gets opened and scanned. The incarcerated person receives a copy, not the original paper you mailed. Even a simple letter goes through this process.
- ✓ Write with the expectation that your mail will be opened and scanned and a copy will be delivered
- ✓ If you’re unsure whether something should be included, check the current DOC mail policy before you send it
- ✓ If your item is time-sensitive or you’re worried about rejection, consider using an approved electronic option instead
Prefer to send something electronically? Minnesota DOC notes that families can create a TextBehind account to send letters, photos, and greeting cards to someone at MCF Faribault. It's faster and more trackable than traditional mail.
Mail getting returned or stuck? Check the basics first: full name, OID number, facility name, and "Minnesota" spelled out. Compare your envelope to the DOC handbook's example to make sure you're following the same structure (even though their sample uses a different facility). Also keep in mind that mail is opened and scanned before a copy is provided - those processing steps can affect timing.
- Compare your envelope to the DOC example format - make sure you’re using the same layout (name + OID, then facility + “Minnesota,” then the mailing address lines).
- Confirm the OID number with your loved one - a wrong or missing OID can slow down matching.
- Rewrite the state as “Minnesota” - don’t use “MN,” even if everything else is correct.
- Resend only after you’ve fixed the address details - small formatting errors can cause delays or returns.
- If it’s still being rejected or delayed, check the current DOC mail rules - mail is opened and scanned, and specific content rules can affect what makes it through.
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