What Can You Send to Someone in Prison?

What you can send depends on the facility, but here is a practical rundown of the most common categories and how each one works.

Letters. Letters are accepted at virtually every jail, prison, and detention center in the country. They must be addressed with your friend's full legal name, inmate ID number, and the complete facility address. InmateAid prints and mails letters for you, or you can send them directly through the postal service.

Photos. Photos are permitted at most facilities as long as they do not contain nudity. Bikini and lingerie photos are generally fine. Explicit images are rejected at the mail room and the entire envelope may be confiscated. Photos must be sent through an approved vendor like InmateAid or printed and mailed as standard mail, not through a photo sharing app or email.

Money. Putting money on your friend's books gives them access to commissary for food, hygiene items, stamps, and phone time. The most common methods are Western Union, JPay, or the facility's own deposit system depending on where they are housed. InmateAid can also help with money transfers including for international senders.

Books and magazines. Books and magazines must be sent directly from an approved publisher or retailer like Amazon. They cannot be mailed from your home. The item must ship directly from the seller, not a third-party vendor. Some facilities have approved publication lists so it is worth confirming before ordering.

Packages and clothing. Most facilities do not accept personal packages or clothing from outside. Items like clothing and shoes are typically purchased through the facility's commissary system.

If you are not sure what a specific facility allows, InmateAid can help you confirm the rules before you send anything.