Did you know that there are more than two million people in United States jails and prisons, which is a 500 percent increase over the past forty years?
If you want to stay in touch with a friend or loved one who is in jail, it is important to recognize that you are not alone.
The problem is that it can be difficult to figure out how to write a letter to an inmate. We have written a guide to help you out. Keep reading to find out more.
Visit the Jail’s Website
Jails hold inmates who are waiting for their trials or who are serving sentences that are shorter than one year. If your loved one is serving a term that is longer than a year, they will be held in a prison.
If you want to send a letter to an inmate who is in jail, the first thing that you will need to do is visit the jail’s website.
Chances are that this website will have information and resources to help you figure out how to write inmate letters.
If you are uncertain about where your friend or loved one is currently located, consider visiting the Jail Exchange website at jailexchange.com.
Find the Inmate’s Booking Number
Many jails will require you to include the inmate’s booking number and name with the address on the envelope. You can find this number by accessing the inmate database.
You can also find this number by contacting the jail.
How to Address a Letter to an Inmate
On the first line of the envelope, write down the inmate’s name and booking number. On the next line, write the jail’s address.
On the third line, include the city, state, and zip code.
Add Your Name and Address
When you are sending a letter to an inmate, don’t forget to include your name and return address on the top right corner of the envelope.
Make sure that the rest of the envelope does not have any writing. It is common for jails to prohibit inmates from receiving mail that includes stickers because they can conceal contraband.
Avoid Sending Prohibited Items
There are many types of items that jails will not accept. This is because they have strict rules in place to ensure safety in the jail.
The most common types of prohibited items include greeting cards, candy and food, cash, and gang-related items.
Mail the Letter
Once you have sealed the envelope, all you will need to do is drop it in the mail.
Make sure to include the proper amount of postage.
How to Address a Letter to an Inmate
If you have been wondering how to mail a letter to an inmate, it is important to remember to include the inmate’s booking number on the outside of the envelope.
If you want to find out about how to stay in touch with inmates, make sure to check out the Lifestyle section of our blog.
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