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 USP Marion.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at USP Marion 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 USP Marion.

Frequently asked questions about USP Marion

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 USP Marion.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to USP Marion?

   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 USP Marion?

   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 USP Marion. 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 USP Marion. 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 USP Marion?

   Mailing address:

   USP Marion
   4500 Prison Rd
   Marion, IL 62959
   Phone: (618) 964-1441

   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 USP Marion?

   Visiting hours at USP Marion 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 (618) 964-1441 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 USP Marion?

   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 USP Marion for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at USP Marion?

   You can send money to an inmate at USP Marion 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 USP Marion?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At USP Marion, 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 USP Marion?

   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 USP Marion 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 USP Marion, 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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at this federal facility center on developing practical skills and addressing underlying factors that may contribute to recidivism. The comprehensive approach typically emphasizes personal growth through structured learning opportunities and therapeutic interventions. Residents often participate in multiple initiatives simultaneously, creating a foundation for successful community reintegration.

Educational services may deliver literacy improvement and high school equivalency preparation for residents seeking to advance their academic credentials. Vocational programs often include hands-on training in various trades and technical skills that align with current job market demands. Furthermore, food service operations provide residents with practical work experience while developing transferable skills in food preparation, safety protocols, and customer service principles.

Mental health treatment initiatives typically address behavioral health needs through individual and group counseling sessions. Conflict resolution programming may deliver structured approaches to managing interpersonal disputes and developing communication strategies. Furthermore, decision-making skills development often includes cognitive-behavioral components that help residents evaluate choices and consider long-term consequences of their actions, supporting more thoughtful approaches to daily challenges and future planning.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules now govern every aspect of residential life, with count times and meal periods creating predictable rhythms throughout each day. Residents regularly follow established routines that typically begin with early morning wake-up calls and continue through organized activities, work assignments, and evening lockdown procedures. This consistent framework generally provides stability and helps residents adapt to the institutional environment.

Housing units at the facility typically accommodate residents in cells or dormitory-style arrangements, depending on security classification and available space. Furthermore, residents usually have access to basic personal property allowances and may purchase additional items through the commissary system. Living areas generally include common spaces where residents can interact during designated periods, although movement throughout the facility remains controlled and supervised according to security protocols.

Programming schedules deliver structured opportunities for education, vocational training, and recreational activities that help residents maintain productive daily routines. Although visitation policies may vary based on security requirements, families can typically maintain contact through scheduled visits, phone calls, and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and other institutional operations that provide residents with responsibility and purpose while serving their sentences.