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 Muskegon County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Muskegon 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 Muskegon County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Muskegon County Jail
   980 Terrace St
   Muskegon, MI 49442
   Phone: (231) 724-6351

   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 Muskegon County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Muskegon 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 (231) 724-6351 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 Muskegon 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 Muskegon County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

**Educational and vocational initiatives** form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts, with comprehensive programming designed to address the diverse learning needs of residents. These evidence-based approaches recognize that meaningful skill development often serves as a critical pathway to successful community reintegration. The facility's commitment to transformative programming typically emphasizes both immediate educational advancement and long-term career preparation, creating multiple avenues for personal growth and professional development.

Academic programming may deliver foundational literacy instruction alongside advanced educational opportunities, allowing residents to pursue their individual learning goals regardless of their starting point. Vocational education initiatives often include hands-on training in marketable trades, providing residents with practical skills that translate directly to employment opportunities upon release. These educational components typically integrate with career counseling services, helping participants identify realistic pathways that align with their interests and community needs. Additionally, the structured learning environment fosters critical thinking skills and personal responsibility that extend well beyond the classroom setting.

Support services complement educational initiatives through comprehensive reentry programming that addresses the multifaceted challenges of community transition. The prisoner reentry initiative may deliver case management services, housing assistance coordination, and employment placement support, creating a continuum of care that extends beyond incarceration. Grounds maintenance programs often provide residents with valuable work experience while contributing to facility operations, developing both technical skills and workplace discipline. Additionally, physical fitness initiatives typically promote overall wellness and stress management, recognizing that mental and physical health significantly impact successful rehabilitation outcomes.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured wake-up calls mark the beginning of each day, with residents following a consistent schedule that delivers predictability and order throughout their time at the facility. Today's routine typically begins with morning counts and personal hygiene time, followed by breakfast service in designated dining areas where residents gather in small groups under staff supervision. The day generally continues with various scheduled activities, work assignments, and programming opportunities that help maintain a sense of purpose and routine.

Living accommodations at Muskegon County Jail consist of housing units designed to provide basic necessities while maintaining security protocols. Residents typically share cells or dormitory-style arrangements, with each person allocated space for personal belongings within established limits. The facility generally provides bedding, basic hygiene items, and access to commissary services where residents may purchase additional personal care products, snacks, and writing materials using funds from their accounts. Additionally, common areas within housing units often include tables and seating where residents can write letters, read, or engage in quiet activities during designated free time.

Programming schedules deliver educational opportunities, counseling sessions, and recreational activities that help residents maintain connections with the outside world and prepare for their eventual release. While security considerations guide all activities, residents typically have access to exercise periods in designated areas, library services, and television viewing during specified hours. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation opportunities and telephone privileges, allowing residents to maintain relationships with loved ones and receive emotional support during their stay. The facility generally coordinates these various elements to create a structured environment that balances security requirements with basic human needs and rehabilitation goals.