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 Taft Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Taft Correctional Institution 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 Taft Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Taft Correctional Institution

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 Taft Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Taft Correctional Institution?

   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 Taft Correctional Institution?

   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 Taft Correctional Institution. 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 Taft Correctional Institution. 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 Taft Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Taft Correctional Institution
   1500 Cadet Rd
   Taft, CA 93268
   Phone: (661) 763-2510

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Taft Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Taft Correctional Institution 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 (661) 763-2510 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 Taft Correctional Institution?

   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 Taft Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Taft Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Taft Correctional Institution 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 Taft Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Taft Correctional Institution, 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 Taft Correctional Institution?

   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 Taft Correctional Institution 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 Taft Correctional Institution, 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 Taft Modified Community Correctional Facility operates with a structured visitation program that supports family connections and community ties, offering weekend visiting hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The facility utilizes the Visitor Processing Appointment Scheduling System (VPASS), an online platform that allows approved visitors to schedule appointments up to one week in advance, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to maintaining meaningful relationships between inmates and their support networks. This systematic approach to visitation, combined with walk-in availability after scheduled appointments, reflects the facility’s recognition that family connections often play a crucial role in successful reintegration.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined in available documentation, correctional facilities of this type typically may offer educational services including adult basic education and GED preparation programs. The facility likely provides vocational training opportunities that could include job readiness skills, computer literacy, and various trade certifications to prepare inmates for employment upon release. Counseling services often include substance abuse treatment programs, anger management classes, and mental health support services, which are common components of rehabilitation efforts in California correctional facilities.

The facility’s modified community correctional designation suggests it may emphasize programs designed to facilitate the transition back into the community. These could potentially include work release programs, community service opportunities, and pre-release planning services that help inmates develop housing and employment plans. Additionally, the facility may offer religious services, recreational activities, and library services that support personal development and provide constructive use of time during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Weekend visitation at Taft Modified Community Correctional Facility operates on Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, providing residents with extended opportunities to maintain family connections. The facility processes visitors on a walk-in basis following approval of required documentation, with the last visitor processed at 2:00 PM to ensure adequate time for visits. Those using the VPASS online appointment system typically receive priority processing, while walk-in visitors may be accommodated after 12:30 PM depending on availability.

Residents at this modified community correctional facility often experience a structured environment that balances security requirements with rehabilitation programming. The daily routine typically includes scheduled meal times, work assignments, educational opportunities, and recreational periods. Given the facility’s community-focused designation, residents may have access to vocational training programs and life skills courses designed to support successful reintegration. The facility maintains security protocols while fostering an atmosphere conducive to personal development and family engagement.

Communication with loved ones extends beyond weekend visits, as residents typically have access to telephone privileges and correspondence opportunities throughout the week. The facility’s location in Taft allows for relatively convenient access for families traveling from various parts of California. While visiting programs may be modified based on institutional security needs, the extended weekend hours and online scheduling system demonstrate the facility’s commitment to supporting family relationships during the incarceration period.