Menard Correctional Center

To visit at Menard Correctional Center, schedule your in-person visit online through the facility's SignUpGenius system. The sign-up times out after 30 minutes of inactivity, so have your details ready before you start. Adult visitors (18+) typically need to complete the Prospective Visitor's Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) before a first visit unless they're electronically pre-approved—English and Spanish forms are available online. For non-legal and non-government visits, the incarcerated person must add you to their approved visitation list and keep it updated. Bring two forms of identification (one must be a state-issued photo ID), provide vehicle information, and expect COVID-19 symptom and temperature screening. Electronic devices, food, drinks, bags, books, sunglasses, and keys aren't allowed in the visiting room. Small lockers are available, but the facility won't assume responsibility for stored items.

Menard Correctional Center uses ICSolutions for video visitation—register with ICSolutions before scheduling a video visit. For those in restrictive housing, video visits are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. No video visits are scheduled from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM due to institutional count procedures. Menard also offers electronic messaging through ICSolutions CorrLinks. Messages are screened and monitored, so delivery may be delayed during review. Phone calls from Menard typically show up on caller ID as (217) 512-7443. Three-way calling is strictly prohibited and can lead to disciplinary action.

At Menard Correctional Center, mailroom staff open and inspect incoming non-privileged mail, then scan each item in color and upload PDF images for the person in custody to view on their bulletin board or tablet. Routine viewing is of the scanned copy, not the original paper. Some items aren't scanned: publications, official government documents, IDOC staff correspondence, unauthorized mail, and mail addressed to the facility for return. Starting September 30, 2025, publications must be mailed directly from the publisher—visitors won't be able to drop them off after that date. Original photographs sent directly from photo printing vendors are generally delivered unless deemed unauthorized. To get a physical copy or the original, the person in custody must submit the facility request form within the allowed time window. Photocopies may be available for those without tablet access.

Menard Correctional Center accepts funds through JPAY, Western Union (Send2Corrections), MoneyGram, and mailed money orders. Don't send money orders to Menard directly—they must go to the vendor lockbox for processing. Make the money order payable to JPay and mail it with the required deposit slip to PO Box 260250, Hollywood, FL 33026. JPAY and Western Union transfers typically post within 24–48 business hours, while MoneyGram can take about 72–96 business hours. Before submitting any deposit, double-check the person's full name and booking/ID number or date of birth. Funds may be applied to existing debts or court-ordered obligations.