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 Yates County Corrections-Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Yates County Corrections-Jail
   227 Main St
   Penn Yan, NY 14527
   Phone: (315) 536-5175

5. What are the visiting hours at Yates County Corrections-Jail?

   Visiting hours at Yates County Corrections-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 (315) 536-5175 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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Yates County Corrections-Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 Yates County Corrections-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 serve as cornerstone principles guiding the rehabilitation services at Yates County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. Through a range of structured services, participants often have opportunities to develop both personal and professional competencies that support successful community reintegration.

Education services may provide inmates with foundational academic skills and continuing education opportunities to advance their learning. These offerings often include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult education courses designed to help participants complete their educational goals. Also, vocational training through culinary arts services typically gives inmates hands-on experience in food preparation and kitchen operations, potentially preparing them for employment opportunities in the food service industry upon release.

Mental health support services often address psychological and emotional needs through individual and group counseling sessions. Therapeutic programs may help inmates develop coping strategies and work through personal challenges in a structured environment. Also, specialized services such as upholstery training can provide practical job skills, while healthy relationships programming typically focuses on building communication skills and establishing positive interpersonal connections. These support services often work together to address multiple aspects of personal development and rehabilitation.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Yates County Jail create a structured environment where inmates navigate shared living spaces and established routines. At present, the facility actively maintains daily schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. Inmates generally follow a structured routine that includes designated times for meals, recreation, and various programming activities throughout the day.

Living accommodations usually consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where inmates adapt to limited personal space and communal living arrangements. The facility typically provides basic furnishings and bedding, while inmates may purchase additional personal items through the commissary system. Meals are generally served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with inmates receiving three meals daily that meet basic nutritional requirements. Also, the housing environment requires inmates to follow specific rules regarding personal property, cleanliness, and interaction with others.

Work assignments within the facility often provide inmates with opportunities to maintain daily structure while contributing to facility operations through tasks such as kitchen duty, cleaning, or maintenance work. Recreation time typically includes access to television, reading materials, and physical exercise opportunities when available. However, programming schedules may vary based on facility needs and security considerations. Family connections remain important, with the facility generally offering visitation opportunities and phone access that allow inmates to maintain contact with loved ones, though these services typically operate within established guidelines and scheduling restrictions.