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 Willacy County State Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Willacy County State Jail
   1695 County Rd 300 S
   Raymondville, TX 78580
   Phone: (956) 689-4900

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Willacy County State Jail?

   Visiting hours at Willacy County State 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 (956) 689-4900 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 Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State 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 Willacy County State 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 rehabilitation services at Willacy County State Jail. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities and addressing underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. Inmates often have access to structured opportunities designed to prepare them for successful reintegration into their communities upon release.

Educational and vocational services may provide inmates with essential tools for future employment and civic participation. Literacy programs often help individuals improve their reading and writing skills, while civic education typically covers topics related to community involvement and civic responsibility. Additionally, vocational training services may offer hands-on experience in various trades and technical skills that are commonly sought after in the job market.

Support services and therapeutic interventions typically address both practical needs and behavioral challenges. Work programs often allow inmates to develop job skills while contributing to facility operations, and grounds maintenance activities may provide outdoor work experience. Faith-based initiatives typically offer spiritual guidance and community support for those who choose to participate. Additionally, specialized therapeutic services such as sex offender treatment may be available to address specific rehabilitation needs and reduce recidivism risk.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Willacy County State Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations where inmates navigate shared living spaces and adapt to structured routines. At present, inmates actively participate in daily schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and proceed through designated meal times, work assignments, and recreational periods. The facility generally maintains consistent routines that provide stability and structure throughout each day.

Living conditions center around communal dormitories where inmates share sleeping areas, restroom facilities, and common spaces. Personal property allowances typically include basic clothing items, hygiene products, and limited personal effects that inmates may purchase through the commissary system. While the environment requires significant adjustment, inmates often develop coping strategies and form social connections that help them manage the challenges of incarceration. The facility usually provides three meals daily in designated dining areas, with inmates following scheduled meal times based on their housing assignments.

Additionally, the facility may offer various work programs where inmates can participate in maintenance, kitchen duties, or other institutional operations that provide structure and potential skill development. Recreation opportunities typically include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to library materials when available. Family connections remain important through visitation programs that generally allow scheduled visits with approved family members and friends. Inmates can usually maintain contact with loved ones through monitored phone calls and correspondence, though specific policies may vary based on security classifications and individual circumstances.