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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office

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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office. 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office. 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office
   322 Justice Dr
   Carthage, TN 37030
   Phone: (615) 735-2626

5. What are the visiting hours at Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office 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 (615) 735-2626 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office, 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office?

   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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office 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 Smith County Jail and Sheriff's Office, 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

Personal growth opportunities within Smith County Jail focus on building essential life skills and fostering positive change. Those incarcerated can access various structured offerings designed to support their development during their time at the facility. The approach emphasizes practical skill-building and personal reflection through organized activities that promote accountability and forward-thinking.

Educational and vocational offerings typically include basic education programs that help participants work toward completing their high school equivalency. Those incarcerated may also access vocational training opportunities that focus on developing marketable job skills for future employment. These structured learning environments often provide hands-on experience in trades and technical areas that align with local workforce needs.

In addition to these foundational programs, support services may furnish faith-based programs for those seeking spiritual guidance and community connection. Restorative justice offerings often focus on helping participants understand the impact of their actions while developing conflict resolution skills. The facility may also include recycling programs that teach environmental responsibility while providing meaningful work opportunities. These various offerings work together to create a structured environment that emphasizes personal accountability and preparation for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Strong family bonds and peer relationships form the foundation of daily experiences for those incarcerated at Smith County Jail. Today's routines consistently revolve around structured activities that encourage positive social connections while maintaining essential security protocols. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with scheduled meal times and headcounts, followed by opportunities for group programming and recreational activities that foster community interaction.

Living arrangements generally include dormitory-style housing units where individuals share common areas and develop supportive relationships with fellow residents. These accommodations typically furnish basic necessities including bedding, personal storage space, and access to shared facilities. Meals are usually served in communal dining areas, creating natural opportunities for social interaction and conversation throughout the day.

In addition to this structured environment, the facility may offer various work assignments that allow those incarcerated to contribute meaningfully to daily operations while developing job skills. Recreation periods often include access to outdoor areas, television viewing, and organized activities that promote physical wellness and social engagement. Despite the institutional setting, maintaining connections with family members remains a priority through scheduled visitation opportunities and telephone access, helping individuals preserve important relationships during their time at the facility.