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 Yancey County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Yancey 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 Yancey County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Yancey County Jail
   1 E Main St
   Burnsville, NC 28714
   Phone: (828) 682-2321

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

   Visiting hours at Yancey 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 (828) 682-2321 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 Yancey 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 Yancey County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at Yancey County Jail typically center on providing residents with practical skills and educational opportunities that address underlying issues contributing to incarceration. The facility’s approach emphasizes preparing individuals for successful reintegration into their communities through comprehensive programming that may deliver both immediate support and long-term benefits. These initiatives often recognize that many residents face educational gaps, substance abuse challenges, and limited job skills that require targeted intervention.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility’s programming, with GED preparation classes typically available to help residents complete their high school equivalency requirements. These academic initiatives may deliver structured learning environments where participants can work at their own pace while receiving individualized support. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often include hands-on programs such as welding instruction, which provides residents with marketable skills that can lead to employment upon release. These practical training initiatives typically focus on trades that are in demand within the local job market.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives address the complex needs that many residents bring to the facility. Substance abuse programs may offer both group and individual counseling sessions designed to help participants understand addiction patterns and develop coping strategies. These therapeutic initiatives often include educational components about the effects of substance abuse and may deliver tools for maintaining sobriety after release. The combination of educational, vocational, and therapeutic programming creates a comprehensive approach that addresses multiple factors that can influence successful reentry into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules now govern every aspect of residential life, with consistent wake-up calls, meal times, and activity periods that residents regularly follow throughout their stay. This predictable framework typically begins early in the morning and continues through evening hours, creating a rhythm that many residents find helps them adapt to their temporary circumstances. The routine generally includes designated times for meals, recreation, programming, and rest periods that deliver stability during an uncertain time.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where residents are assigned beds and basic personal storage space. Residents usually receive standard bedding and may keep limited personal items, while meals are generally served in common dining areas at scheduled times throughout the day. The commissary system often allows residents to purchase additional food items and personal care products, providing some degree of personal choice within the structured environment. Furthermore, recreation opportunities may include access to exercise areas, television viewing, and reading materials during designated periods.

Programming schedules typically deliver educational and therapeutic activities designed to support residents during their stay. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help residents stay productive while contributing to daily operations. Although visitation policies generally limit the frequency and duration of visits, residents usually have access to telephone services and may be able to send and receive mail to maintain connections with family members and support systems outside the facility.