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 Wells County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Wells 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 Wells County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Wells County Jail
   1615 Western Ave
   Bluffton, IN 46714
   Phone: (260) 824-3426

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

   Visiting hours at Wells 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 (260) 824-3426 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 Wells 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 Wells County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of services at Wells County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. This approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires both educational opportunities and therapeutic support.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to earn their GED or improve basic literacy skills. These programs often focus on practical learning that can translate into employment opportunities upon release. Also, vocational training services typically include hands-on instruction in carpentry and other trade skills. These programs may offer inmates the chance to develop marketable abilities while serving their sentences.

Mental health counseling services often address various psychological and emotional challenges that inmates may face. Trained counselors typically work with individuals to develop coping strategies and address personal issues. Also, faith-based programs may provide spiritual guidance and community support for those who choose to participate. These services often include group discussions, chaplain visits, and religious study opportunities that can offer inmates additional pathways for personal reflection and growth.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Wells County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that shape how inmates navigate their daily environment. Inmates now follow structured schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. The facility regularly maintains order through established routines that include designated times for meals, recreation, and programming activities.

Living quarters generally accommodate multiple inmates per housing unit, with shared common areas and bathroom facilities. Inmates typically adapt to limited personal space by organizing their few approved belongings efficiently. The dining area provides communal meal service three times daily, where inmates often develop social connections while adjusting to institutional food service. Also, inmates may access commissary items to supplement their meals and personal care needs.

However, recreational opportunities help break the monotony of confinement through access to television areas, reading materials, and limited outdoor time when weather permits. Work assignments within the facility provide structure and may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks. Visitation policies typically allow scheduled visits with family members, while phone access enables inmates to maintain important connections with their support systems. Also, some inmates may participate in educational or substance abuse programming when available, helping them use their time constructively while preparing for eventual release.