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 Orangeburg County Jail House.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Orangeburg County Jail House

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 Orangeburg County Jail House.

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

   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 Orangeburg County Jail House?

   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 Orangeburg County Jail House. 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 Orangeburg County Jail House. 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 Orangeburg County Jail House?

   Mailing address:

   Orangeburg County Jail House
   1520 Ellis Ave
   Orangeburg, SC 29118
   Phone: (803) 539-2090

5. What are the visiting hours at Orangeburg County Jail House?

   Visiting hours at Orangeburg County Jail House 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 (803) 539-2090 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 Orangeburg County Jail House?

   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 Orangeburg County Jail House for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Orangeburg County Jail House 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 Orangeburg County Jail House?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Orangeburg County Jail House, 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 Orangeburg County Jail House?

   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 Orangeburg County Jail House 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 Orangeburg County Jail House, 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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at this South Carolina facility emphasize skill-building and personal development through comprehensive programming designed to address residents' diverse needs. The facility's approach typically centers on providing structured opportunities that may help individuals develop practical abilities while fostering personal growth and community connections.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with initiatives that may deliver basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities. Vocational programs often complement these academic pursuits by providing hands-on training in various trades and professional skills. Furthermore, specialized training in barbering and cosmetology may offer residents marketable skills that can support successful reintegration. These educational and vocational initiatives typically emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping residents build confidence alongside competency.

Support services encompass a broad range of therapeutic and personal development initiatives designed to address emotional and social needs. Faith-based initiatives and religious services may provide spiritual guidance and community connection for interested residents. Communication skills training often focuses on helping individuals develop effective interpersonal abilities, while healthy relationships programming may address conflict resolution and social interaction strategies. These support-oriented initiatives typically work together to create a comprehensive framework that addresses multiple aspects of personal development and preparation for community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

At present, a carefully structured daily schedule actively shapes every aspect of residential life, beginning before dawn with wake-up calls and continuing through evening count procedures. This regimented framework typically includes designated times for meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreation periods. The routine delivers predictability that many residents find stabilizing during their time at the facility.

Furthermore, living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents maintain personal spaces within dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements. Meals are usually served in common dining areas at scheduled intervals throughout the day, with menus planned to meet basic nutritional requirements. Although personal property is typically limited to approved items, residents may often access commissary services to purchase additional necessities and approved comfort items. Security procedures are woven throughout daily activities, ensuring safety while allowing residents to participate in their assigned routines.

The facility usually offers various work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, laundry services, and grounds keeping responsibilities. Recreation opportunities often include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to reading materials. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact during designated hours and days. Additionally, residents typically have access to telephone services and may be able to send and receive mail, helping them stay connected with their support systems outside the facility. Educational and vocational programming may also be available, providing structured activities that can help residents develop skills and maintain productive daily routines.