Writing to someone in prison is a meaningful way to offer support, encouragement, and human connection. Because every facility has strict security rules, understanding the basics helps ensure your mail is delivered without delays or rejections.
1. Check the Facility’s Rules First
Every prison, jail, and detention center has its own mail policies. These rules can change at any time, and what’s allowed in one facility may be banned in another. Always review the facility’s website or contact their mailroom before sending anything.
2. Keep Your Letter Simple and Clean
Most facilities only accept plain white or lined paper, blue or black ink, and standard envelopes. Avoid stickers, glitter, colored paper, drawings with heavy marker, or scented items — these are common reasons mail gets rejected.
Avoid gel pens or colored ink. Many facilities reject letters written in gel pens, metallic ink, or brightly colored pens because they cannot be scanned properly or may be considered a security risk. Stick to standard blue or black ballpoint ink.
3. Photos Have Strict Rules
Many facilities allow a small number of printed photos, but they must follow strict content guidelines. Photos cannot include nudity, gang symbols, hand signs, weapons, or anything considered inappropriate. Polaroids are almost always rejected.
Some facilities do not allow photos at all, so always check the policy before including them.
4. Do Not Send Money Orders, Checks, or Cash
Most prisons will reject any form of money sent through the mail. Cash, personal checks, and money orders are typically returned or destroyed. To add funds, use the facility’s approved deposit system — usually an online service, kiosk, or a designated mailing address specifically for financial transactions.
5. Avoid Any Content That Could Be Viewed as a Threat
All incoming mail is screened or read by staff. Anything that could be interpreted as a threat may cause your letter to be rejected. Avoid discussing violence, escape plans, weapons, illegal activity, security procedures, or anything that could endanger the facility, staff, or other incarcerated individuals.
6. Address the Envelope Exactly as Required
Include the incarcerated person’s full legal name, ID or DOC number, housing unit (if known), and the facility’s complete address. Missing or incorrect details can cause mail to be returned.
7. Ask the Person You’re Writing for Guidance
They often know the most up‑to‑date rules for their facility. If you’re unsure about something — photos, stamps, content, or formatting — they can usually tell you what’s allowed and what gets rejected.