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 Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Union County Sheriff

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 Sheriff.

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

   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 Sheriff?

   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 Sheriff. 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 Sheriff. 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 Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   Union County Sheriff
   209 E Main St
   Elk Point, SD 57025
   Phone: (605) 356-2679

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Union County Sheriff 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 (605) 356-2679 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 Sheriff?

   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 Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Union County Sheriff, 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 Sheriff?

   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 Sheriff 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 Sheriff, 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

Educational initiatives form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Union County Jail in South Dakota, where residents may access comprehensive learning opportunities designed to address both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple domains, recognizing that successful community reentry often depends on residents' ability to develop practical competencies alongside personal growth strategies. These initiatives often include structured pathways that allow participants to progress at their own pace while building confidence and preparing for future opportunities.

Academic programming may deliver foundational education services, including literacy development and basic skills reinforcement that help residents complete educational milestones. Furthermore, vocational training initiatives typically focus on practical skill development in areas that align with local employment opportunities, providing hands-on experience that residents can directly apply upon release. These programs often include instruction in various trades and technical skills, allowing participants to explore different career pathways while developing marketable competencies that may enhance their employment prospects.

Work programs typically provide residents with structured daily activities that build responsibility and work habits, while specialized training in areas such as plumbing may offer technical skill development. Furthermore, individual counseling initiatives often include personalized support that addresses specific challenges and goals, helping residents develop coping strategies and personal insight. Arts and crafts activities may deliver creative outlets that support emotional well-being and self-expression, providing residents with constructive ways to manage stress and develop new interests that can continue beyond their incarceration period.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure now governs every aspect of life within the facility, with residents following carefully planned schedules that begin early each morning and continue throughout the day. Wake-up calls typically occur before dawn, followed by head counts and preparation for the day ahead. Meals are served at regularly scheduled intervals in designated dining areas, where residents gather in organized groups. The predictable rhythm of these daily activities delivers stability that many residents find helpful in maintaining focus and routine.

Furthermore, living accommodations at Union County Jail generally consist of housing units designed to accommodate multiple residents, with basic furnishings and personal storage space for approved belongings. Residents typically share common areas within their housing units and may have access to dayrooms for socializing during designated hours. The commissary system usually allows residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks, providing some personal choice within the structured environment. Although space may be limited, residents can generally maintain personal hygiene items and a small number of personal belongings.

The facility typically offers various programming opportunities that deliver educational and recreational benefits to residents. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help residents develop skills while contributing to facility operations. Recreation time often includes access to exercise areas, television viewing, and sometimes reading materials. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while phone privileges may be available during designated hours. These connections with the outside world often provide crucial emotional support that helps residents navigate their daily routine with greater stability.