How to send messages, photos, and packages
Ohio Reformatory uses vendor portals for visit scheduling and account activity. The facility-recommended option is the ViaPath/GTL portal, where you can schedule and manage visits, reserve a time, and get instant confirmation. Using the portal helps you skip lines and lock in a slot. If a minor is approved in the DOTS portal, they cannot add money to an inmate's account or do video visits without a parent or legal guardian. For payments, ConnectNetwork/ViaPath AdvancePay balances become inactive after 180 consecutive days without use and may be forfeited. Refunds are handled through customer service. Since third-party vendors set the technical and payment rules, register ahead of time, have a valid photo ID ready, and use a compatible device for offsite video visits. Sessions are commonly monitored or recorded.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Visiting is stressful enough without getting tripped up by property rules. Here's the clear answer on what you can't hand-deliver during a visit at Ohio Reformatory, plus what to do instead if you want to help with money or other needs.
Heading in for a visit? The safest assumption: you can't show up with money or a package and hand it to your loved one. Funds and certain vendor payments go through specific, approved channels—everything else can get you turned away or worse.
Visiting rules can feel strict when you're just trying to help. At Ohio Reformatory (ODRC), you can't hand an incarcerated person cash, packages, letters, or printed materials during a visit. Bringing certain items onto the grounds can put you at real legal risk. Here's what the rules are and what to do instead.
Register and sign in to the ViaPath/GTL portal to schedule and manage visits. When you book through the portal, you reserve a time and the visit confirms instantly.
No. Approved minors in the DOTS portal cannot place money on an inmate’s account or conduct video visits without a parent or legal guardian.
AdvancePay accounts become inactive after 180 consecutive days without use and may be forfeited. If you need a refund, request it through customer service.
Need disability access, breastfeeding accommodations, prescription medication, or bringing a service animal? Here's what Ohio Reformatory's visiting rules actually allow—and what staff can and can't ask at the door.
Bringing a child to visit means some paperwork upfront. Know which form you need—and when notarized permission applies—and you won't get turned away at the door.
Before a child can visit at Ohio Reformatory, paperwork comes first. The key form is the Minor Visitor Application (DRC-2238)—it must be completed, signed by the child's custodial parent or legal guardian, submitted, and approved before the child's first visit. While you're preparing, know that Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction materials like the ODRC General Visiting Instructions (DRC-2274) and the Declaration of Understanding (DRC-2554) are available to staff, incarcerated people, and visitors. Ask to review them if you need clarity on the overall process.
