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Reviewed on: April 14,2026
Send Inmate Mail

Do inmates read online letters or get printed mail?

If i send my boyfriend a letter through this online service will he get it in a letter form or does he get to go on the internet and read the letter? How does that work.?

Most inmates do not have access to the Internet or email, they receive letters through the US Mail.
Ask The Inmate
Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer January 20,2015 · Send Inmate Mail
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Most inmates do not have access to the Internet or email, they receive letters through the US Mail. We estimate that it takes 2-3 business days to make it to the jail. Once there, the staff opens and reads each piece of mail and inspects it for contraband. Any delay that occurs at the facility is out of our control. We make no guarantees as to how long it will take as there are thousands of facilities and none of them do things the same way. Please be patient, if the ID number and facility are correct we are 100% reliable.Mail call is Monday - Friday in most places.

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Accepted Answer Date Created: January 20,2015
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.