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 Panola County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Panola 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 Panola County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Panola County Jail
   319 W Wellington St
   Carthage, TX 75633
   Phone: (903) 693-0359

   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 Panola County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Panola 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 (903) 693-0359 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 Panola 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 Panola County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Educational advancement forms the cornerstone of rehabilitation initiatives at Panola County Jail, where residents can pursue meaningful pathways toward personal growth and community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses both immediate educational needs and long-term skill development. These initiatives often focus on building foundational knowledge while simultaneously preparing residents for successful transitions back into their communities through practical, hands-on learning opportunities.

Academic programming may deliver high school diploma completion courses for residents who have not finished their secondary education. These educational initiatives often include basic literacy and numeracy instruction, helping participants strengthen fundamental skills essential for future employment and personal development. Moreover, vocational training opportunities typically encompass practical skills development, with small engine repair programs that may provide residents with marketable technical abilities. Such vocational initiatives often emphasize hands-on learning experiences that can translate directly into employment opportunities upon release.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives typically complement the educational and vocational components through comprehensive programming designed to address underlying issues. Work programs may offer residents opportunities to develop job readiness skills and maintain productive daily routines during their incarceration. Faith-based initiatives often provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking such resources. Additionally, domestic violence programs may deliver specialized counseling and education for residents whose offenses or personal histories involve relationship violence, helping them develop healthier communication patterns and conflict resolution strategies that can prevent future incidents.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure currently governs every aspect of life within the facility, with residents following carefully organized schedules that begin early each morning and continue throughout the day. The routine typically starts with wake-up calls, followed by headcounts and meal service in designated dining areas. Residents generally move between housing units, programming areas, and common spaces according to established timeframes that deliver predictability and order. These structured schedules continue to provide a framework that many residents find helpful in maintaining focus and personal discipline during their time at the facility.

Living accommodations at Panola County Jail typically consist of housing units designed to meet basic needs while maintaining security protocols. Residents usually share cells or dormitory-style spaces, with personal property generally limited to approved items that may be purchased through the commissary system or received through approved channels. Moreover, the facility often provides basic furnishings and bedding, while residents typically have access to shower facilities and personal hygiene items according to established schedules. Daily meals are generally served in common dining areas, with menus that aim to meet nutritional requirements while accommodating various dietary needs when possible.

Programming and recreational opportunities typically deliver additional structure to residents' daily experiences, with activities that may include educational classes, work assignments, and supervised exercise periods. Whereas movement throughout the facility requires coordination with staff, residents often have scheduled times for recreation and social interaction. Family connections continue to play an important role, with visitation policies that generally allow approved visitors during designated hours, along with telephone privileges and mail correspondence options. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help residents contribute to daily operations while developing routine and responsibility.