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 Wilson County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Wilson 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 Wilson County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Wilson County Jail
   105 E High St
   Lebanon, TN 37087
   Phone: (615) 444-5686

   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 Wilson County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Wilson 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 (615) 444-5686 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 Wilson 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 Wilson County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Wilson County Sheriff’s Office operates a comprehensive correctional facility that includes both traditional jail housing and a work house program, reflecting a commitment to providing structured opportunities for individuals in custody. The facility’s work house component typically serves as an alternative sentencing option that may allow eligible individuals to maintain employment or participate in community service while serving their sentences. Additionally, the jail maintains a garden program that often provides both vocational training opportunities and fresh produce for the facility.

Educational and vocational programs at Wilson County Jail may include basic literacy classes, GED preparation, and job readiness training to help prepare individuals for successful reintegration into the community. The facility typically offers substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that many individuals in the correctional system benefit from addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to their legal troubles. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are commonly available, providing spiritual support and guidance during incarceration.

Support services often extend to family visitation programs, legal assistance coordination, and pre-release planning to help individuals transition back into the community. The jail may also provide medical and dental care through contracted healthcare providers, ensuring that basic health needs are met during incarceration. Given Wilson County’s location and the transient population that travels through the area, the facility likely maintains programs designed to address the diverse needs of both local residents and individuals from other jurisdictions who may be housed there temporarily.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located within the Wilson County Criminal Justice Complex, the Wilson County Jail operates under the oversight of the Sheriff’s Office, which maintains responsibility for housing both misdemeanor and felony prisoners. The facility typically follows structured daily schedules that begin early in the morning with count procedures and meal service, though specific timing may vary based on housing assignments and security classifications.

Inmates at Wilson County Jail generally experience days organized around meals, recreation periods, and various programming opportunities that may be available. The facility often provides basic amenities such as commissary services, telephone access for maintaining family connections, and scheduled visitation periods, though visitors should contact the facility directly to confirm current policies and procedures. Medical services are typically available to address health needs, and inmates may have access to reading materials or educational resources depending on the facility’s current offerings.

The jail operates under the supervision system managed by the Sheriff’s Office, which includes oversight of both the detention facility and work programs. Inmates may have opportunities to participate in work details or other structured activities as part of their daily routine, though participation often depends on factors such as security classification, behavior, and length of stay. Family members seeking to maintain contact with inmates are encouraged to inquire about current communication policies, visitation schedules, and any specific procedures that may be in place at the Wilson County Criminal Justice Complex.