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 Monroe Correctional Complex.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Monroe Correctional Complex 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 Monroe Correctional Complex.

Frequently asked questions about Monroe Correctional Complex

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 Monroe Correctional Complex.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Monroe Correctional Complex?

   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 Monroe Correctional Complex?

   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 Monroe Correctional Complex. 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 Monroe Correctional Complex. 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 Monroe Correctional Complex?

   Mailing address:

   Monroe Correctional Complex
   16550 177th Ave SE
   Monroe, WA 98272
   Phone: (360) 794-2400

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Monroe Correctional Complex?

   Visiting hours at Monroe Correctional Complex 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 (360) 794-2400 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 Monroe Correctional Complex?

   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 Monroe Correctional Complex for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Monroe Correctional Complex?

   You can send money to an inmate at Monroe Correctional Complex 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 Monroe Correctional Complex?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Monroe Correctional Complex, 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 Monroe Correctional Complex?

   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 Monroe Correctional Complex 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 Monroe Correctional Complex, 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

The Monroe Correctional Complex (MCC) operates as a multi-custody facility serving up to 2,400 male residents across maximum, close, medium, and minimum security levels. The facility’s comprehensive approach to corrections includes structured visiting programs that support family connections, with specialized visiting rooms for different housing units and financial assistance through the Lodging and Transportation Assistance Program (LTAP), which provides up to $50 reimbursements to help families with travel costs for visits.

Educational and vocational programming at MCC typically includes adult basic education, GED preparation, and various job training opportunities that may encompass construction trades, food service, and facility maintenance skills. The complex likely offers substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling services, and cognitive behavioral interventions designed to address criminogenic thinking patterns. Religious and spiritual services are commonly available, along with recreational activities and library access to support personal development and constructive use of time.

Community reintegration services at the facility often include pre-release planning, job placement assistance, and connections to community resources. The facility may also provide anger management classes, parenting programs, and life skills training to help residents prepare for successful reentry. Given its multi-custody structure, MCC can typically offer progressive programming that allows residents to advance through different security levels as they demonstrate positive behavioral changes and complete required programs.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Monroe Correctional Complex operates as a multi-custody facility housing up to 2,400 male inmates across maximum, close, medium, and minimum security levels since 1910. With multiple housing units including TRU, MSU, and SRTC, each area maintains its own visiting schedule and operational procedures. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments, educational programs, or recreational activities depending on their custody level and unit placement. The facility’s structured environment ensures that residents follow consistent daily routines while accessing various rehabilitative services designed to support their reintegration goals.

Family connections remain a vital component of life at the complex, with regular visiting opportunities available across different housing units, though schedules may vary by location within the facility. The Washington Department of Corrections recognizes the financial challenges families face and offers the Lodging and Transportation Assistance Program, providing up to two $50 reimbursements for qualifying families to help cover fuel and hotel costs during visits. Both in-person prison visits and video visits require completion of the visitor application process, ensuring security protocols are maintained while facilitating meaningful contact between inmates and their loved ones.

The facility typically offers various programs and services common to Washington state correctional institutions, which may include educational opportunities, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Inmates often participate in work assignments that help maintain facility operations while developing job skills, and recreational activities provide structured leisure time. The complex’s long operational history and diverse custody levels allow for programming that can be tailored to meet the varying needs of its population, from high-security inmates requiring intensive supervision to those in minimum security who may be preparing for community reentry.