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 Okanogan County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Okanogan 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 Okanogan County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Okanogan County Jail
   149 4th Ave N
   Okanogan, WA 98840
   Phone: (509) 422-7230

   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 Okanogan County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Okanogan 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 (509) 422-7230 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 Okanogan 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 Okanogan County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Cognitive behavioral therapy serves as a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts, helping residents develop essential coping strategies and decision-making skills that support successful community reintegration. This therapeutic approach typically focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with constructive behaviors, while addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. The facility often emphasizes evidence-based practices that encourage personal accountability and emotional regulation.

Educational services may deliver foundational academic instruction, including GED preparation and basic literacy programs designed to enhance residents’ employment prospects upon release. Vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trades and technical skills, allowing participants to develop marketable abilities during their incarceration. Additionally, work programs often include practical opportunities such as landscaping initiatives, which not dedicated maintain facility grounds but also teach residents valuable job skills, work ethic, and responsibility while contributing to their sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Support services typically encompass a comprehensive range of initiatives that address both immediate needs and long-term success planning. These programs may offer life skills training, financial literacy education, and pre-release planning assistance to help residents transition effectively back into their communities. The facility often integrates these various therapeutic and educational components to create a holistic approach to rehabilitation, recognizing that successful reentry requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual’s personal and professional development.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure now governs every aspect of life within the facility walls, with residents following carefully organized schedules that begin early each morning. Wake-up calls typically occur before dawn, followed by count procedures and preparation for the day ahead. Residents regularly participate in assigned work details, educational programming, or vocational training throughout the morning and afternoon hours. Meal times deliver consistent anchoring points in the daily routine. Recreation periods generally provide opportunities for physical activity and social interaction within designated areas.

Living accommodations at Okanogan County Corrections typically feature dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and facility capacity. Residents usually share common areas including dayrooms equipped with television and basic recreational materials. Personal property allowances generally include essential clothing items, approved books, and limited personal effects stored according to facility guidelines. Additionally, commissary services may offer residents the opportunity to purchase approved items like snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials using funds from their institutional accounts.

While security procedures maintain order throughout the facility, residents often have access to various programming opportunities that deliver educational and rehabilitative benefits. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility cleaning responsibilities that provide structure and potential skill development. Visitation policies typically allow scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while telephone privileges and mail services help residents maintain important connections with their support systems. Additionally, some residents may participate in counseling programs, substance abuse treatment, or other therapeutic services designed to address individual needs and promote successful community reintegration.