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 Saunders County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Saunders 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 Saunders County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Saunders County Jail
   387 N Chestnut St
   Wahoo, NE 68066
   Phone: (402) 443-5660

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Saunders County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Saunders 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 (402) 443-5660 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 Saunders 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 Saunders County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Building essential life skills becomes the cornerstone of personal transformation for those incarcerated at Saunders County Jail. The facility’s comprehensive offerings emphasize practical development and meaningful preparation for successful community reintegration. Each opportunity is designed to address the diverse needs of participants while maintaining the structured environment necessary for safety and security.

Educational offerings typically include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses that help participants complete their foundational learning. Moreover, vocational training may furnish hands-on experience in trades that align with local employment opportunities. These skill-building initiatives often focus on practical applications that translate directly to workplace readiness upon release.

Support services play a crucial role in reinforcing the educational and vocational foundation. Work programs within the facility may offer structured daily routines while developing responsibility and teamwork skills. Library services typically provide access to educational materials and resources for continued learning. Additionally, decision-making skills workshops often include guidance on problem-solving techniques and personal accountability. Job placement assistance may furnish connections to community employers and support networks, helping bridge the transition from incarceration to employment. These comprehensive support offerings work together to create a framework for lasting positive change and successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain vital elements that help those incarcerated at Saunders County Jail maintain their sense of community during their time at the facility. The structured environment currently provides various opportunities for meaningful interactions, while programming continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining relationships with loved ones outside the facility walls.

Those incarcerated typically reside in housing units that accommodate multiple individuals, creating natural opportunities for social interaction throughout the day. The facility generally organizes meals in common dining areas where residents can engage with one another during designated meal times. Living arrangements usually include shared spaces that allow for conversation and mutual support among those serving their sentences. Personal property policies typically permit residents to maintain some personal items that help preserve connections to their outside lives.

Moreover, recreational activities and work assignments furnish structure while encouraging positive social dynamics within the facility. Exercise periods and recreational programming generally provide outlets for physical activity and group interaction. Communication with family members typically occurs through scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges, allowing those incarcerated to maintain important relationships. Whereas some facilities may limit outside contact, county jails often recognize that family support systems play a crucial role in successful reintegration into the community upon release.