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 Union County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Union 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 Union County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Union County Jail
   50 NW 1st St
   Lake Butler, FL 32054
   Phone: (386) 496-2501

5. What are the visiting hours at Union County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Union 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 (386) 496-2501 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 Union 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 Union County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Union 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 Union 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 Union 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 Union 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 Union County Jail operates as an integrated part of the criminal justice system, utilizing advanced technology and automated systems to streamline processes for both residents and law enforcement. The facility’s automated reporting system provides real-time civil and criminal court paperwork, helping to expedite legal proceedings, while the laser automated fingerprint system connects directly to the National Crime Information Center and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for comprehensive identification services. Additionally, the jail participates in the V.I.N.E.S. network, which automatically notifies victims when offenders are released, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to community safety and victim services.

While the 36-bed facility primarily focuses on housing both convicted and non-convicted offenders for felony and misdemeanor crimes, correctional facilities in Florida typically may offer various support services to residents during their stay. These often include basic educational programs such as GED preparation, life skills training, and substance abuse counseling to help address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. The facility may also provide access to religious services, mental health support, and pre-release planning assistance to help residents prepare for their return to the community.

Given the facility’s location in Lake Butler and its role in the local criminal justice system, residents may have access to legal resources and court preparation services. The jail’s structured visiting schedule on Thursdays and Fridays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM for immediate family members helps maintain important family connections during incarceration. For specific information about available programs and services, individuals can contact the jail administrator, as program offerings may vary based on facility resources and individual circumstances.

Daily Life & Visitation

Life Behind Bars at Union County Jail

With visiting hours restricted to Thursday and Friday afternoons from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, inmates at the Union County Jail in Lake Butler must carefully coordinate their limited family contact within this narrow window. The 36-bed facility, housed in a building with roots dating back to 1950, operates under strict security protocols where all visitors face potential searches and dedicated immediate family members may visit on one designated day per week. This controlled environment reflects the jail’s dual role in housing both convicted offenders serving sentences and those awaiting trial on various felony and misdemeanor charges.

The facility’s integration with modern law enforcement technology shapes much of the daily operational routine. Inmates may experience processing through the laser automated fingerprint system, which connects to both the National Crime Information Center and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement databases. The jail’s participation in the V.I.N.E.S. victim notification network means that certain releases and movements are automatically tracked and reported. Located on the north side of the courthouse at 50 NW 1st Street, the facility’s proximity to the court system typically allows for efficient transport to hearings and proceedings, though specific scheduling depends on individual case requirements.

Like most Florida county jails, inmates likely follow structured daily routines that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities, though the facility’s relatively small capacity means resources and activities are necessarily limited. The jail administrator can be reached at (386) 496-2501 for specific inquiries about policies, procedures, or individual cases, providing a direct line of communication for families navigating the correctional system.