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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Frequently asked questions about WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   Mailing address:

   WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
   1409 Greenbrier St
   Charleston, WV 25311
   Phone: (304) 558-2036

5. What are the visiting hours at WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   Visiting hours at WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation 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 (304) 558-2036 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   You can send money to an inmate at WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation?

   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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation 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 WV Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 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 the comprehensive offerings at this West Virginia correctional facility. Those incarcerated have access to structured opportunities designed to build essential life skills and prepare them for successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes security and safety while creating an environment where participants can focus on meaningful personal development and positive behavioral changes.

Educational pathways may furnish those incarcerated with opportunities to earn their GED or pursue adult basic education coursework. These academic offerings often include literacy programs and computer skills training to help participants develop fundamental knowledge for future employment. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities typically focus on practical job skills in areas such as construction trades, food service, and maintenance work. These hands-on programs may provide valuable certifications and work experience that support long-term career development.

Support services play a crucial role in helping those incarcerated prepare for successful community reentry. Substance abuse treatment offerings often include both group counseling sessions and individual therapeutic support to address underlying addiction issues. Furthermore, housing assistance programs may furnish guidance on securing stable living arrangements upon release. Community resource connections typically help participants identify local support networks, employment opportunities, and ongoing treatment services. These comprehensive support offerings often emphasize building the practical skills and connections necessary for maintaining stability and avoiding future legal difficulties.

Daily Life & Visitation

Strong family bonds and community connections help those incarcerated navigate their time at this West Virginia correctional facility. Social interactions now occur within structured environments that regularly provide opportunities for meaningful relationships to develop among residents. Daily routines typically begin early with scheduled count times, followed by meals served in communal dining areas that furnish natural gathering spaces for conversation and connection.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where those incarcerated develop supportive relationships with their cellmates and neighbors. Furthermore, dormitory-style arrangements in some areas allow for broader social interaction throughout the day. Although privacy may be limited, residents often create informal support networks that help them maintain emotional well-being and stay connected to their sense of community.

Structured programming schedules typically include recreational activities, educational classes, and work assignments that bring people together around common goals. Visitation policies usually allow family members to maintain regular contact through scheduled visits, while phone calls and correspondence provide additional ways to preserve outside relationships. Those incarcerated may participate in facility jobs ranging from kitchen duties to maintenance work, which furnish both structure and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their community. Recreation periods generally offer sports, games, and group activities that help residents stay physically active while building friendships that often extend beyond their time at the facility.