Prison Email Services Explained

Many prisons now allow inmates to communicate electronically through approved prison messaging systems. These systems are often called prison email services, although they usually work differently than normal email.

Most inmate messaging systems are monitored and may charge fees for messages, photos, video visits, or electronic stamps.

JPay

JPay is one of the most widely used prison communication services in the United States. Depending on the facility, inmates may be able to receive electronic messages, reply electronically, receive photos, or use video visitation.

Some facilities allow two-way messaging while others only allow inmates to receive messages.

GettingOut

GettingOut is commonly used in county jails and correctional facilities across several states. The platform may include messaging, video visitation, phone calls, and photo sharing.

Some inmates specifically request contact through the GettingOut app because it can be faster than regular mail.

CorrLinks

CorrLinks is commonly used by federal prisons and some state systems. Messages are monitored and inmates must approve contacts before communication can begin.

CorrLinks works more like traditional email than some other prison systems.

Securus

Securus provides communication services for many correctional facilities including messaging, phone calls, tablets, and video visits.

Features vary depending on the prison or jail.

Access Corrections

Access Corrections is another system used by certain correctional facilities for inmate communication and account management.

Some prisons use Access Corrections mainly for commissary deposits, while others also allow messaging services.

Important Things To Know

• prison email systems are monitored
• inmates may not have constant access
• delivery times vary
• some services charge message fees
• photos and attachments may be restricted

Always follow facility rules and use the communication service listed on the inmate profile whenever possible.

Helpful Resources

Final Thoughts

Prison email systems can make inmate communication faster and more convenient than traditional mail, but every facility has different rules and restrictions.

When writing prison pen pals, patience and flexibility are important because communication systems can vary greatly from one prison to another.