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 Shelby County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Shelby 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 Shelby County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Shelby County Jail
   201 Poplar Ave
   Memphis, TN 38103
   Phone: (901) 222-4700

   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 Shelby County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Shelby 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 (901) 222-4700 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 Shelby 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 Shelby County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The breadth of opportunities available within Shelby County Jail reflects a comprehensive approach to individual development and community reintegration. This facility typically recognizes that meaningful change occurs through diverse pathways, offering individuals multiple avenues for personal growth and skill development. The programming philosophy often emphasizes practical preparation for successful community reentry while addressing the underlying factors that may have contributed to incarceration.

Educational initiatives form a cornerstone of the facility's comprehensive offerings, with individuals often having access to basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and adult education courses. These academic opportunities may be complemented by structured learning environments that accommodate various skill levels and learning styles. Furthermore, vocational job training opportunities typically provide hands-on experience in trades and marketable skills, allowing participants to develop competencies that align with local employment demands and industry standards.

Support services round out the facility's holistic approach to individual development, with recovery services often addressing substance abuse issues through counseling and therapeutic programming. The comprehensive nature of these offerings may extend to practical reentry assistance, including identification document assistance that helps individuals obtain essential paperwork needed for employment and housing applications. Furthermore, employment readiness opportunities typically focus on job search skills, interview preparation, and workplace behavior, creating a foundation for sustainable community integration upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now marks the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at the Shelby County Jail. Daily routines typically begin early with headcounts and meal service, followed by regularly scheduled activities that may include educational programming, work assignments, or recreational periods. The facility generally maintains consistent schedules to provide structure, though specific timings can vary based on housing unit assignments and security classifications.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, depending on classification levels and available space. Individuals usually have access to basic personal property and may purchase additional items through the commissary system when funds are available. Furthermore, meals are generally served at designated times in common dining areas or delivered to housing units, with menus that typically meet basic nutritional requirements while accommodating some dietary restrictions.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, vocational training, and recreational activities that offer structure during incarceration. Although visitation schedules and communication options may be limited, the facility typically provides various ways for individuals to maintain contact with family members through scheduled visits, phone calls, and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility may be available to qualified individuals, potentially including kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other facility operations that can provide purpose and routine during their stay.