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Reviewed on: April 28,2026
Send Inmate Mail

How Do I Get My Number to an Inmate Who Cannot Call Me?

How do I get ahold of an inmate who is locked up and doesn’t have my number to contact me

Send them a postcard or a letter with your phone number written clearly at the top.
Ask The Inmate
Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer October 01,2022 · Send Inmate Mail
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Send them a postcard or a letter with your phone number written clearly at the top. That is the fastest and most reliable method. Mail reaches inmates even when phone access is still being set up, and once they have your number in hand they can add it to their approved call list and reach out.

InmateAid's postcard and letter service lets you send from your phone or computer from anywhere in the country, and delivery through the US Postal Service typically takes a few days to reach the facility. Your home address does not appear on the envelope, which keeps your personal information private.

One letter with your number is all it takes. Keep it brief and direct so the number is impossible to miss.

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Accepted Answer Date Created: October 01,2022
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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.