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 Northwest Correctional Complex.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Northwest 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 Northwest Correctional Complex.

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

   Mailing address:

   Northwest Correctional Complex
   960 TN-212
   Tiptonville, TN 38079
   Phone: (731) 253-5000

   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 Northwest Correctional Complex?

   Visiting hours at Northwest 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 (731) 253-5000 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 Northwest 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 Northwest Correctional Complex for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Northwest 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 Northwest 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 Northwest 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 Northwest 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 Northwest Correctional Complex takes a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation through evidence-based programming designed to address the diverse needs of its population, including specialized services for juvenile offenders convicted as adults. The facility’s academic opportunities include Adult Basic Education (ABE) and High School Equivalency (HiSET) exam preparation courses, while vocational training encompasses Career Management for Success, Core Carpentry I & II, Core Masonry I & II, Core Plumbing I & II, and Core Construction programs. Through partnerships with educational institutions, individuals can pursue an Associate degree program through Dyersburg State Community College, a Bachelor’s degree program through Lane College, and specialized certifications in Farming Operations Technology and Computer Information Technology through Tennessee College of Applied Technology.

Behavioral health services form a crucial component of the facility’s programming, with offerings that include cognitive behavior intervention, a mental health supportive living unit, and a substance use therapeutic community. The facility provides the state’s dedicated juvenile program specifically focused on cognitive behavioral intervention for offenders under 18, addressing the comprehensive rehabilitative needs of this population. Workforce development programs help prepare individuals for successful reintegration, while Tennessee Rehabilitative Initiative in Correction (TRICOR) provides job opportunities at the facility’s industry call center.

Beyond formal programming, the facility may offer additional support services typical of Tennessee correctional institutions, such as religious services, recreational activities, and library access. The complex demonstrates its commitment to community engagement by providing over 100,000 hours of community service annually through various projects benefiting state and local government entities and non-profit organizations. These comprehensive services work together to support rehabilitation goals and help prepare individuals for successful reentry into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee, the structured environment accommodates 1,776 male inmates across custody levels ranging from minimum to close security. The facility operates with distinct daily routines that vary based on an inmate’s custody classification and program participation. Those enrolled in the academic programs, including Adult Basic Education and High School Equivalency preparation, typically begin their educational activities in the morning hours, while inmates participating in vocational training such as Core Carpentry, Masonry, or Plumbing programs may follow different schedules aligned with their coursework requirements. The facility’s comprehensive role in housing juvenile offenders convicted as adults means certain areas maintain specialized routines designed for younger inmates, with dedicated cognitive behavioral intervention programs that operate throughout the day.

Educational and vocational programming forms a central component of daily life, with inmates potentially spending several hours engaged in structured learning activities. The partnership programs with Dyersburg State Community College and Lane College provide opportunities for inmates to work toward associate and bachelor’s degrees, requiring dedicated study time and classroom attendance. Those involved in the substance use therapeutic community or mental health supportive living units may have modified daily schedules that incorporate group therapy sessions, individual counseling, and specialized programming. The TRICOR industry call center provides work opportunities that typically operate during standard business hours, giving participating inmates structured employment experience within the facility.

Communication with family members and the outside community typically follows standard Tennessee Department of Correction policies, though specific visitation schedules and phone call procedures may vary based on custody level and program participation. Inmates often have designated times for recreational activities, meals, and personal care, with those participating in community service projects potentially leaving the facility grounds under supervision to contribute to the over 100,000 annual hours of service provided to local organizations. Evening hours generally include additional program activities, study time, or recreational opportunities, depending on an individual’s custody level and behavioral standing within the facility.