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 Ward County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ward 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 Ward County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ward County Jail
   315 3rd St SE
   Minot, ND 58701
   Phone: (701) 857-6530

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

   Visiting hours at Ward 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 (701) 857-6530 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 Ward 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 Ward County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Rehabilitation through structured learning and skill development forms the cornerstone of Ward County Jail's approach to resident transformation. The facility typically emphasizes preparing individuals for successful community reintegration by addressing educational gaps and building practical competencies. These initiatives often focus on creating pathways that help residents develop both personal confidence and marketable abilities during their time in custody.

Educational initiatives may deliver comprehensive programming designed to meet diverse learning needs among the resident population. Computer literacy courses often provide essential digital skills that prove valuable in today's technology-driven employment market, while basic education programs typically address fundamental academic deficiencies. Furthermore, special education services may offer targeted support for residents with learning disabilities or other educational challenges, ensuring that all individuals can participate meaningfully in skill-building opportunities regardless of their starting point.

Support services often include structured work programs that allow residents to develop job readiness skills while contributing to facility operations. Intramural sports initiatives typically provide physical fitness opportunities and promote teamwork among participants, contributing to overall wellness and social development. Additionally, identification document assistance may help residents obtain essential paperwork such as birth certificates or state identification cards, removing common barriers to employment and housing that many individuals face upon release. These comprehensive support services often work together to address the practical challenges that can impede successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured wake-up calls mark the beginning of each day, establishing a rhythm that residents at Ward County Jail consistently follow. Today, like every day, the schedule begins early with designated times for personal hygiene and preparation before breakfast. This predictable framework typically includes regular meal times, count procedures, and designated periods for various activities that help maintain order throughout the facility.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents are assigned based on classification levels and security considerations. Meals are typically served in a common dining area at scheduled intervals, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner delivered according to established timeframes. The facility usually provides basic furnishings and bedding, while residents may access personal items through the commissary system when funds are available.

Furthermore, recreational opportunities often include access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and scheduled exercise periods that deliver structure to afternoon hours. Although visitation policies may vary, the facility generally maintains regular visiting hours that allow residents to maintain connections with family members and loved ones. Work assignments within the facility typically provide residents with purposeful activities, ranging from kitchen duties to maintenance tasks. Additionally, programming schedules usually incorporate educational opportunities and structured activities designed to support rehabilitation goals while maintaining the facility's operational needs.