Can Inmates Write to Each Other? TDCJ Inmate-to-Inmate Correspondence Rules
TDCJ allows inmates to write to each other in limited situations. There's a specific approval step, and the mail still gets screened like any other general correspondence.
Someone in TDCJ can't just start mailing letters to an incarcerated family member. First, they need to submit an I-60 to their Unit Records Office requesting permission for inmate-to-inmate correspondence. This is the gatekeeping step. If letters aren't getting through, check whether the I-60 was actually submitted through the Unit Records Office.
Tip: Have your loved one confirm the process on their unit, including where to submit the I-60 and how long approval typically takes.
Even with approval, inmate-to-inmate letters are treated as general correspondence. They're subject to inspection and can be rejected if the content violates TDCJ rules. Assume anything written may be reviewed. A letter that crosses a line can be stopped before it ever reaches the other person.
- Write and send the letter as general correspondence - inmate-to-inmate mail is handled under the same general correspondence category.
- Expect the letter to be inspected - TDCJ reviews general correspondence, including inmate-to-inmate letters.
- Plan for rejection if it breaks correspondence rules - if the content violates TDCJ rules, the letter may not be delivered.
Warning: Rejected letters won't reach the other inmate. Stick to TDCJ correspondence rules to avoid delays and denials.
TDCJ doesn't allow one inmate to give another inmate power of attorney. If your loved one needs help with legal or personal matters, they shouldn't try to set up this kind of arrangement with another incarcerated person. Even if they trust the other person completely, attempting this can create serious disciplinary problems for both of them.
Note: Power of attorney between inmates is not permitted, and suspected attempts can lead to disciplinary action.
Practical Tips Families
- ✓ Remind your loved one that they must submit an I-60 to the Unit Records Office before writing an incarcerated family member.
- ✓ Have them verify the Unit Records Office procedure and expected timeline on their unit, so they know what to do if mail is delayed.
- ✓ Encourage them to keep inmate-to-inmate letters rule-compliant, since general correspondence is inspected and can be rejected.
The fastest way to avoid delays is getting the I-60 step done correctly. That's what kicks off the whole process with the Unit Records Office. If letters still aren't going through, have your loved one follow up with the same office that handles the request. Unit procedures and timing vary, so a quick check can clear things up. Set expectations about screening, too. Since inmate-to-inmate letters are inspected as general correspondence, a rejected letter usually means a content issue, not a postage problem. The fix is simple: rewrite the message with rule-compliant language and resend. Don't keep mailing the same content that already got flagged.
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