How soon inmates can contact family after arrival

The timing can vary by facility, but most inmates are able to start communicating with family within the first 1 to 2 weeks after arrival.

Here is what usually happens:

Phone calls:

• The inmate must set up an approved contact list
• This list has to be reviewed and approved by staff
• Immediate family members are often approved faster
• Once approved and funded, calls can begin

Letters:

• Inmates can usually send mail as soon as they have:
  • Access to writing materials
  • Stamps from commissary
• This often happens fairly quickly, sometimes within the first few days

Possible delays:

• Intake and orientation processes
• Waiting for account setup or approvals
• Facility-specific rules

If you have not heard from them after a couple of weeks, it is usually due to processing delays, not a problem. Sending a letter early is often the fastest way to establish contact.