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 Waupun Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Waupun Correctional Institution 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 Waupun Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Waupun Correctional Institution

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 Waupun Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Waupun Correctional Institution?

   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 Waupun Correctional Institution?

   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 Waupun Correctional Institution. 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 Waupun Correctional Institution. 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 Waupun Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Waupun Correctional Institution
   200 S Madison St
   Waupun, WI 53963
   Phone: (920) 324-5571

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 2:15 – 8:30 PM
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: 2:15 – 8:30 PM
   • Friday: 2:15 – 8:30 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Waupun Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Waupun Correctional Institution 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 (920) 324-5571 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 Waupun Correctional Institution?

   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 Waupun Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Waupun Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Waupun Correctional Institution 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 Waupun Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Waupun Correctional Institution, 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 Waupun Correctional Institution?

   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 Waupun Correctional Institution 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 Waupun Correctional Institution, 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

From foundational literacy courses to specialized therapeutic interventions, the breadth of developmental opportunities at Waupun Correctional Institution reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals in custody. This comprehensive approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires multiple pathways for growth and skill development. The facility typically organizes its programming around core areas that support both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the institutional offerings, often including basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and various academic advancement opportunities. These educational foundations frequently connect with vocational programs that may offer training in trades and practical skills relevant to employment prospects. The integration of academic and vocational learning typically allows individuals to build both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience across multiple disciplines.

Additionally, therapeutic opportunities address mental health and behavioral needs through structured interventions. Mental health treatment services may offer individual and group counseling sessions designed to support psychological well-being and personal development. Anger management programming often provides individuals with practical tools for emotional regulation and conflict resolution. The facility may also include recreational opportunities such as intramural sports, which typically serve both physical fitness goals and positive social interaction among participants.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now signals the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at Waupun Correctional Institution. Residents regularly follow established routines that begin early, with count times serving as the foundation for daily scheduling. Meals are typically served at designated hours in common dining areas, where individuals gather for breakfast, lunch, and dinner according to their housing unit assignments. Work details and programming activities generally commence after morning meal service, with individuals participating in various facility operations or educational programs throughout the day.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of cells or dormitory-style housing units, depending on security classification and available space. Individuals usually share living spaces and have access to basic amenities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited personal property storage. The commissary system allows residents to purchase additional items such as snacks, toiletries, and writing materials using funds from their institutional accounts. Additionally, common areas within housing units may offer spaces for television viewing, reading, or quiet activities during designated recreation periods.

While daily routines provide structure, the facility typically offers various programs designed to support rehabilitation and personal development. Educational opportunities, vocational training, and counseling programs are generally available to eligible individuals based on their needs and security status. Recreation time usually includes access to outdoor yards, gymnasium facilities, or indoor common areas where individuals can exercise or participate in organized activities. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, allowing individuals to maintain contact with loved ones during their incarceration. Mail correspondence also provides another avenue for communication with family members and approved contacts in the community.