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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Tygart Valley Regional Jail
   400 Abbey Rd
   Belington, WV 26250
   Phone: (304) 637-0382

5. What are the visiting hours at Tygart Valley Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Tygart Valley Regional 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 (304) 637-0382 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Tygart Valley Regional Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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 Tygart Valley Regional 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

Communication with family and friends plays a vital role in supporting rehabilitation at Tygart Valley Regional, with the facility maintaining a structured mail system that ensures secure correspondence between inmates and their loved ones. All mail must be directed through a centralized processing center in Phoenix, Maryland, where letters are scanned and delivered electronically to offenders, helping maintain important family connections while ensuring security protocols are followed.

Beyond correspondence services, Tygart Valley Regional typically provides educational opportunities that may include GED preparation classes, adult basic education, and literacy programs designed to help inmates develop essential academic skills. The facility often offers vocational training programs that could encompass areas such as construction trades, automotive repair, or food service preparation, giving inmates practical job skills for successful reentry into their communities. These programs are frequently complemented by life skills courses that address topics like financial literacy, job interview preparation, and workplace communication.

Counseling and support services may include substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling, and anger management classes, as these are common components of rehabilitation in West Virginia correctional facilities. The facility often provides religious services and may offer recreational activities to support inmates’ physical and emotional well-being. Case management services typically help coordinate inmates’ participation in various programs and assist with reentry planning, ensuring individuals have access to resources and support systems that can contribute to their successful transition back into the community upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with loved ones follows a structured digital process at Tygart Valley Regional, where all correspondence must be addressed to PO Box 336 in Phoenix, MD 21131, including the offender’s full name and OID number along with the complete facility name. Letters undergo scanning before delivery to residents, with strict guidelines prohibiting photographs, multiple recipients per envelope, or any attachments beyond handwritten or typed correspondence. The sender’s complete name and return address are required, as any violations of these mail policies result in returned correspondence.

Residents typically begin their days with early morning counts and structured meal times in designated dining areas. The facility often provides educational programming, vocational training opportunities, and recreational activities during scheduled periods throughout the day. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility operations that help residents develop job skills while contributing to daily operations. Evening hours generally include additional programming time, personal correspondence periods, and preparation for lights-out.

The communication system reflects the facility’s focus on maintaining security while preserving family connections. Residents may have access to additional communication methods such as monitored phone calls during designated hours and video visitation opportunities, though specific schedules and availability can vary. Recreation time often includes access to television, reading materials, and physical fitness activities in appropriate areas. Medical services, counseling programs, and case management meetings are typically integrated into the weekly schedule to support residents’ health and reentry preparation needs.