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 Northern State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Northern State Prison 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 Northern State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Northern State Prison

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 Northern State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Northern State Prison?

   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 Northern State Prison?

   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 Northern State Prison. 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 Northern State Prison. 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 Northern State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Northern State Prison
   168 Frontage Rd
   Newark, NJ 07114
   Phone: (973) 465-0068

   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 Northern State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Northern State Prison 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 (973) 465-0068 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 Northern State Prison?

   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 Northern State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Northern State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Northern State Prison 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 Northern State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Northern State Prison, 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 Northern State Prison?

   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 Northern State Prison 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 Northern State Prison, 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 breadth of developmental opportunities at Northern State Prison reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and preparation for successful community reintegration. This multifaceted framework typically encompasses educational advancement, therapeutic intervention, and practical skill development, creating pathways for meaningful personal transformation. The facility's programming philosophy centers on addressing the diverse needs of individuals through structured learning environments and supportive services.

Educational opportunities often include adult basic education services designed to help individuals complete their high school equivalency requirements and develop essential literacy skills. These academic programs may offer structured classroom instruction alongside individualized tutoring support. Additionally, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trade skills, allowing participants to develop marketable abilities that can enhance their employment prospects upon release. The educational framework often emphasizes both foundational learning and practical skill acquisition.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. Substance abuse treatment programs typically offer both group and individual counseling sessions, helping participants develop coping strategies and recovery skills. Additionally, conflict resolution opportunities may include anger management workshops and communication skills training, providing individuals with tools to manage interpersonal challenges more effectively. These therapeutic interventions often work in conjunction with other programming to create a holistic approach to personal development and behavioral change.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of breakfast preparation currently signals the beginning of each day for individuals housed at Northern State Prison, as kitchen staff begin their early morning routines that help structure the facility's daily operations. The institutional schedule continues to revolve around consistent meal times, count procedures, and programmed activities that provide predictable rhythm to daily life. Generally, individuals wake early for morning count, followed by breakfast service and the start of various work assignments or educational programs.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals may store approved personal belongings and maintain their living spaces according to facility guidelines. While privacy remains limited, many individuals often personalize their areas with photographs, letters, and commissary items that help maintain connections to family and personal identity. The facility usually provides basic furnishings and bedding, though individuals may purchase additional approved items through the commissary system to enhance their comfort within the structured environment.

Additionally, the facility offers various recreational activities and structured programming that may include educational classes, vocational training, and physical fitness opportunities in designated areas. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain regular contact, while telephone and written correspondence continue to serve as primary communication methods with the outside world. Work assignments often provide individuals with opportunities to develop skills while contributing to facility operations, whether through kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other institutional jobs that offer structure and purpose to daily routines.