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 Yamhill County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Yamhill 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 Yamhill County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Yamhill County Jail
   535 NE 5th St
   McMinnville, OR 97128
   Phone: (503) 434-7507

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

   Visiting hours at Yamhill 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 (503) 434-7507 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 Yamhill 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 Yamhill County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Yamhill 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 Yamhill 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 Yamhill 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 Yamhill 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 rehabilitation services at Yamhill 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 advancement and personal reflection.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to improve basic literacy skills and work toward completing their high school education. Vocational programs often include hands-on training in areas such as electrical work, giving participants marketable skills for future employment. These services typically focus on building both technical competencies and workplace readiness skills that can support successful reintegration into the community.

Additionally, the facility may offer cognitive behavioral programs designed to help inmates develop better decision-making strategies and conflict resolution techniques. Reentry preparation services often include practical support for the transition back to community life, addressing common challenges like housing and employment planning. These therapeutic services typically work together to provide inmates with tools for personal development and long-term behavioral change.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Yamhill County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Inmates adapt to shared living spaces where personal belongings are limited to essential items approved by facility policies. Today's routine begins early with security counts and meal service, and inmates consistently follow structured schedules that provide predictability in an otherwise restrictive environment.

Living conditions typically include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities within each housing unit. Inmates generally receive three meals daily in designated dining areas or within their housing units, depending on security protocols and facility operations. While personal space is minimal, inmates often develop routines around available common areas and adapt to the communal nature of correctional living. Additionally, inmates may access commissary services to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their basic provisions.

Programming schedules typically include recreational periods, educational opportunities, and work assignments that help structure daily activities. Inmates usually have access to outdoor recreation areas for exercise when weather and security conditions permit. Visitation policies generally allow scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while phone calls and written correspondence provide additional communication options. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that provide inmates with purpose and potentially reduce their sentences through good behavior credits.