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 Montgomery County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Montgomery County Jail
   330 W 2nd St
   Dayton, OH 45422
   Phone: (937) 225-4160

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Montgomery 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 (937) 225-4160 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth and skill development form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts, with inmates having access to various services designed to address underlying issues while building practical capabilities for successful reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that recognizes education, vocational training, and therapeutic support as interconnected elements essential for meaningful change. This philosophy guides the delivery of services that may provide inmates with tools to break cycles of recidivism and develop positive life skills.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities that help inmates advance their academic credentials. These services may provide structured learning environments where participants can work at their own pace while receiving individualized support. Additionally, job training services typically focus on practical skills development in areas such as construction, food service, and maintenance work. Vocational programs often include hands-on training that may prepare inmates for employment opportunities upon release, with instruction covering both technical skills and workplace readiness.

Recovery services form a critical component of the facility's therapeutic offerings, addressing substance abuse issues through counseling and group sessions that may help inmates develop coping strategies and relapse prevention skills. Mentoring programs typically connect inmates with guidance and support from trained volunteers or staff members who can provide encouragement throughout the rehabilitation process. Additionally, community service opportunities may allow inmates to contribute positively to local organizations while developing a sense of civic responsibility and work ethic that supports their personal development goals.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Montgomery County Jail create a structured environment where inmates navigate dormitory-style living arrangements and shared common areas. Inmates now follow a regimented daily schedule that begins with early morning counts and regularly includes designated times for meals, programming, and recreation. The facility typically operates on a system where inmates are awakened for breakfast service, followed by various activities throughout the day including work assignments, educational programs, or recreational periods.

Living accommodations generally consist of multi-person cells or dormitory-style housing units where inmates share sleeping quarters and bathroom facilities. Personal property is usually limited to approved items that can be stored in designated areas, while inmates may access additional necessities through the commissary system. The dining arrangements typically involve scheduled meal times in common areas, where inmates receive meals prepared by facility staff and sometimes assisted by inmate workers in food service roles.

Additionally, the facility provides various programming opportunities that may include educational classes, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling to help inmates maintain structure during their stay. While recreational activities are often limited, inmates usually have access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and sometimes outdoor recreation time when weather and security conditions permit. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and phone calls, though these communications are typically monitored and subject to facility regulations regarding frequency and duration.