Sandstone FCI

Getting on the visitor list at FCI Sandstone starts with the incarcerated person. They request a Visitor Information form, which gets sent to you to complete and submit for approval. Once approved, your visitor record lives in the Web Visiting/ACES systems—this includes your name, relationship, birthdate, and government ID details. ACES logs everyone entering and leaving the institution, and anyone in the system undergoes a background check (at minimum an NCIC check). Bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID every time you visit—no exceptions. Posted visiting hours are typical, but they can change. Inmates in special housing units usually follow a modified schedule.

Use the mailing address on Sandstone FCI's official facility page for letters and standard parcels—follow it exactly to avoid delays. Sending freight or using a non-USPS carrier? Don't guess. Sandstone provides separate shipping instructions and addresses on the same facility page. For most people, USPS is the simplest option. Include the incarcerated person's full name and any required identifiers. Incoming mail gets inspected for contraband, and in Minnesota it may be opened, scanned, and delivered digitally. The original might not come back, so keep copies of anything important. Don't send cash through the mail. And confirm carrier or scheduling rules before shipping non-USPS packages.

Sending money to someone at FCI Sandstone? Don't mail it to the facility itself. Mailed funds must go to a designated processing center in Des Moines, Iowa—the prison won't accept money sent directly to its address. Deposited money goes into the inmate's commissary account, maintained by the Bureau. That's what your loved one uses for commissary purchases and items not regularly issued by the institution. Stick to approved deposit channels and always include the inmate's full name and booking/ID number. Common options include approved online vendors, lobby kiosks, or mail handled according to the vendor's rules.

The main phone number for Sandstone FCI is 603-342-4000. Call before you travel to confirm the current visiting schedule. Need to escalate beyond the facility? The Bureau of Prisons Central Office handles matters that can't be resolved locally—their mailing address and phone number are available for escalated issues. Heads up: Central Office treats emails as written correspondence, so expect a response in about 20–30 working days. For other needs—finding the right office, victim support resources, or filing a complaint—check the DOC contact directory or facility handbook. Start by contacting the facility directly. For urgent situations like death, serious illness, or injury, call the facility and leave a clear message explaining what's happening. If concerns remain unresolved, you can pursue Ombuds or other complaint routes.