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 Sumner County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Sumner 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 Sumner County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Sumner County Jail
   117 W Smith St
   Gallatin, TN 37066
   Phone: (615) 451-2409

   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 Sumner County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Sumner 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 (615) 451-2409 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 Sumner 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 Sumner County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Sumner 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 Sumner 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 Sumner 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 Sumner 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 developmental opportunities at Sumner County Jail reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse needs of individuals during their incarceration. This facility typically recognizes that meaningful change occurs through multiple pathways, offering a range of structured activities designed to build essential life skills and promote personal growth. The programming philosophy centers on providing individuals with practical tools and knowledge that may support their successful reintegration into the community.

Educational advancement serves as a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with education services that often include pathways to high school diploma completion for eligible participants. These academic opportunities may be complemented by vocational programs that focus on developing marketable job skills and trade knowledge. Furthermore, individuals typically have access to various training initiatives that emphasize hands-on learning and practical skill development, helping participants build confidence while acquiring valuable workplace competencies.

Support services at the facility often encompass faith-based programs that provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those who choose to participate. Decision-making skills workshops may help individuals develop critical thinking abilities and learn to make more informed choices in their daily lives. Additionally, parenting classes typically offer valuable instruction on child development, communication techniques, and family relationship building, recognizing that many participants are parents who wish to strengthen their family connections and improve their parenting abilities upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed often marks the beginning of structured activities throughout the facility. Daily life at this correctional facility currently follows established routines that help maintain order and provide individuals with predictable schedules. The day typically begins early with headcount procedures, followed by breakfast service and work assignments for those who participate in facility operations. Security protocols continue to be an important aspect of daily operations, with regular inspections and controlled movement between different areas of the building.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where individuals may be housed with one or more roommates, depending on classification levels and available space. The facility typically provides basic furnishings including beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities within each housing unit. Furthermore, individuals usually have access to limited personal property that meets facility guidelines, and commissary services often offer additional items for purchase. Although space may be limited, most housing areas include common areas where individuals can interact during designated periods.

Recreational opportunities generally offer structure through various activities that may include television viewing, reading materials, and exercise periods when available. Work assignments typically provide individuals with daily responsibilities that might involve kitchen duties, cleaning tasks, or facility maintenance activities. Although programming schedules may vary, the facility usually maintains visiting procedures that allow family members to maintain contact during designated hours. Communication options typically include telephone access and mail services, helping individuals stay connected with their support systems while serving their time at the facility.