How to Get Approved for Visitation at Sumter C.I.: What to Do Before You Show Up

Don't plan a visit to Sumter C.I. until the inmate confirms your application has been approved. That notification is your green light. Show up without it, and you risk a long drive for nothing - staff can deny entry and turn you away.

Step1 Form

• ✓ Use one form per person (each visitor submits their own)
• ✓ Complete every field; if something doesn’t apply, write “NA” instead of leaving it blank
• ✓ If the visitor is 12 or older, they must complete their own form
• ✓ Sign the form before you send it
• ✓ Double-check what you wrote before submitting - leave no blanks and don’t guess

Once your form is complete, submit it to the institution by e-mail or U.S. Mail. Before you hit send or seal the envelope, double-check that everything is legible and signed. A simple paperwork issue can get your application kicked back.

Tips Avoid Delays

• ✓ Write “NA” anywhere a question doesn’t apply - don’t leave blanks
• ✓ Make sure the form is signed (an unsigned form is an easy denial)
• ✓ Verify the inmate’s identifying details (like name/DC number) are accurate before you submit
• ✓ Use your legal name and consistent information - don’t use nicknames or mismatched details
• ✓ Review the whole form once more for skipped lines or incomplete answers

Using the Spanish-language instructions? The key rule is the same: don't go to Sumter C.I. until the inmate tells you your application has been approved. The Spanish version mirrors the English guidance exactly - same expectations, same need to wait.

After you submit your form by e-mail or U.S. Mail, the next step is waiting. The inmate will notify you once you've been approved - staff aren't expecting you until then. While you wait, ask the inmate how they'll let you know. Make sure the contact information you provided is correct. Once you get that approval notice, then you can start planning your trip.