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what can you send inmates in california prison

by Sammy Weissnat Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The inmate may receive the following first class mail at the institution:

  • Photographs (no Polaroid)
  • Calendars
  • Postage embossed envelopes, maximum of forty
  • Blank envelopes
  • Writing paper/tablets (white or yellow lined only – no cotton papers)
  • Typing paper (no cotton paper)
  • Legal paper
  • Children’s drawings
  • Forty postage stamps (personalized postage stamps will not be accepted)

The inmate may receive the following first class mail at the institution:
  • Photographs (no Polaroid)
  • Calendars.
  • Postage embossed envelopes, maximum of forty.
  • Blank envelopes.
  • Writing paper/tablets (white or yellow lined only – no cotton papers)
  • Typing paper (no cotton paper)
  • Legal paper.
  • Children's drawings.

Full Answer

What kind of packages can an inmate receive in California?

California inmates can also receive packages that can contain food, hygiene, and electronic items from an approved third party vendor (Union Supply Direct, or Access Securpak just to name a few). Not all inmates will qualify for these package and certain restrictions can apply,...

How do I send money to an inmate in California?

Sending Money to Inmates in California. You can also send funds to an inmate online through Access Secure Deposits or JPAY. These services are by far the faster way of sending funds to an inmate, but both will charge a fee to send the money, and you will need to know the inmate's ID number in order to send the funds.

What do they give you when you get sent to prison?

Though the provisions from each facility are different, most inmates are given three meals a day, a bar of soap, a place to sleep, and not much else. If you can afford to do so, sending your loved one even $20 a month can dramatically improve their time while incarcerated.

Can I send a care package to an inmate?

Sending an inmate a care package is one of the best ways to support him or her, and make the time more bearable. Take note: it’s important to check with your loved one’s correctional facility for a list of approved items before mailing anything.

What do inmates use the money they send them?

Where do you send money to inmates?

How many photos can an inmate send?

How long do cashier checks stay in jail?

How much can an inmate deduct from a deposit?

How many pages can an inmate receive?

Can you send mail to an inmate?

See 2 more

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Can you send anything to prison?

Convicted Prisoners No prison allows food or drink, tobacco or cigarettes or toiletries to be handed or posted in to a prisoner. Magazines and newspapers can be purchased for the prisoner but this must be done through a local newsagent with whom the prison has an arrangement.

How many packages can an inmate receive in California?

Inmates are allowed to receive up to six (6) vendor packages per year. Vendor packages can only be ordered through CDCR approved vendors.

How can I send a care package to a prison inmate in California?

There are two ways to get care packages to inmates at one of California's prisons. An envelope with pictures and papers can be mailed directly to the facility; other items need to be purchased and delivered through state-approved vendors.

How many pictures can you send an inmate in California?

Inmates can have up to 10 photographs per envelope. The photos can be as large as 8"x10" but must not contain nudity, hand gestures, tattoos, or anything illegal or gang related. Whenever sending photos to an inmate it is a good idea to write the inmates name and ID number in pen on the reverse side of the photo.

What kind of things can you send to inmates?

They must not have a plastic or metal binding. While paperbacks are preferred, hardbound books are allowed – except inmates in segregation may only receive paperback books. Periodicals (Limit of 2 per day) Magazines, newspapers, and other periodicals must be new and sent directly from the publisher or a bookstore.

Can you send clothes to a prisoner?

How do you send clothing into prison? Some prisons have clothing drop in days or on your first visit to the prison. Other prisons may require the prisoner to get the clothing parcel authorised by the CM of the wing or prison governor.

How do I send inmates to Amazon?

The solution is quite simple—write the correctional facility's initials as a PO number, and they will have to ship it via USPS. Make sure you check with the prison beforehand if they have a PO box. Your order cannot be anonymous, so your Amazon parcel should include the following info: Inmate's full name and ID number.

What is an iCare package?

iCare packages for inmates provide everything you need to show them you care with the confidence and trust that your purchase will be delivered. All inmate care package programs and iCare fresh meals have been pre-approved by the facility, so you can rest assured that your gift will be delivered!

Can inmates use cash App?

There is NO legitimate reason for an offender to request that their family and friends place money on a Cash App Account for purchases inside the prison.

Can you send bathing suit pictures to inmates?

Can you send bathing suit pictures to inmates? Answer: NO. Very few facilities allow nudity or anything that could be considered sexually explicit photos.

How long do inmates stay in reception in California?

What takes place when an inmate first arrives to the prison? Upon arrival to a prison Reception Center, the inmate must go through the reception and classification process. This could take up to 120 days. Once all the inmate's case factors are reviewed he/she will be assigned a classification score.

When can inmates make phone calls California?

Incarcerated individuals began setting up their PINS at Valley State Prison starting Feb. 25, and will be activated at all institutions by March 18. GTL and CDCR will continue to offer two free calling days per month through March 2021.

What are quarterly packages for inmates?

Quarterly Packages are packages that consist primarily of clothing, tennis shoes, food, and health and beauty items. Inmates in the California Department of Corrections that are classified as Privilege Group A/B are allowed one 30 pound Quarterly Package each quarter.

Can inmates have tvs?

The short answer is yes. Prisoners can watch TV in prison provided they abide by the rules and regulations in place. The inmates have access to various channels and programs from the public spectrum and their pay-per-view selections.

How do I send inmates to Amazon?

The solution is quite simple—write the correctional facility's initials as a PO number, and they will have to ship it via USPS. Make sure you check with the prison beforehand if they have a PO box. Your order cannot be anonymous, so your Amazon parcel should include the following info: Inmate's full name and ID number.

How do I deposit money to an inmate in California?

You may deliver money to inmates in one of four ways:Online Deposits Using Access Corrections.Deposits by Phone Using Access Corrections.Cash or Credit Card Deposit by Kiosk in Jail Facility Lobbies.US Postal Money Order by Mail.

Sending Money to Incarcerated People - Family & Friends Services

Message to Approved Vendors. Important: All vendors must receive CDCR approval before providing services to institutions.. Inmate Quarterly Packages are available through authorized private vendors (view approved package vendor list).Since 2003, the CDCR has contracted with a number of statewide and national companies that ensure inmates receive packages.

Sending Money or Packages to Inmates - Family & Friends Services

Message to Approved Vendors. Important: All vendors must receive CDCR approval before providing services to institutions.. Inmate Quarterly Packages are available through authorized private vendors (view approved package vendor list).Since 2003, the CDCR has contracted with a number of statewide and national companies that ensure inmates receive packages.

Check Out the CDCR Inmate Mail Guidelines NOW [Pro Hacks] - DoNotPay

Check Out the CDCR Inmate Mail Guidelines. Writing letters to inmates is what keeps them in the loop about the life outside, prepares them for it, and lifts their spirits.. You can write them love letters, creative ones, or those of encouragement, but before you do so, make sure to check the inmate mail guidelines that each prison has.. Our article gives you a quick tour of the inmate mail ...

How to Send Stamps, Envelopes & Paper to Inmates | Legal Beagle

If your loved one is allowed to receive stamps, paper and envelopes by mail, make sure you comply with any restrictions. For example, Florida Department of Corrections allows inmates to receive U.S. postage stamps only up to the value of 20 (1 ounce) first class stamps, and up to 10 items of stationery, blank greeting cards or blank paper items.

What do inmates use the money they send them?

Inmate's use the funds you send them to purchase items like stamps, envelopes, food, snacks, clothing, and hygiene products from the commissary. Read our guide about sending money to an inmate for more information.

Where do you send money to inmates?

When sending funds through the mail, some institutions will require you send it to the inmate, while other facilities (Folsom, Mule Creek, California State Prison Scramento, San Quentin and Wasco State Prison) will require you to send it to a contracted vendor called JPAY using this deposit form. The address to send it to is on the form.

How many photos can an inmate send?

Inmates can have up to 10 photographs per envelope. The photos can be as large as 8"x10" but must not contain nudity, hand gestures, tattoos, or anything illegal or gang related. Whenever sending photos to an inmate it is a good idea to write the inmates name and ID number in pen on the reverse side of the photo.

How long do cashier checks stay in jail?

Money orders, cashier's checks and personal check may be held for up to 30 days from the date it is deposited. When sending funds through the mail, some institutions will require you send it to the inmate, while other facilities (Folsom, Mule Creek, ...

How much can an inmate deduct from a deposit?

The institution can deduct up to 50% of a deposit if the inmate owes outstanding balances. The funds in an inmate's account will also follow the inmate if they are transferred to a different facility or are released. Inmates in California can receive funds by mail, or online via an electronic funds transfer.

How many pages can an inmate receive?

Inmates may receive up to 10 pages at a time, the pages can be drawings, a child's school work, articles cut from a newspaper or magazine, but may not contain glue, stickers, glitter or any other embellishments such as lipstick perfume etc.

Can you send mail to an inmate?

All mail is opened and inspected, sometimes read. At no time may you send any other items to an inmate directly from you. Inmates can receive books, magazines and newspapers but they must come directly from an approved source, we will give more information about how you can send these things to an inmate below.

What size pictures can you send to a prison?

Also, consider the size of the photographs you wish to send to your loved one. Generally, the largest size picture you’ll be allowed to send is 8” x 10”, and in some cases only 4” x 6”.

Why do people send money to incarcerated people?

Sending your incarcerated loved one money can provide them with a small amount of freedom, as well as help them maintain a grasp on the world outside the prison’s doors. Any money you can spare will mean a great deal to your loved one.

What is a commissary in prison?

The commissary is a store full of assorted goods that are approved for inmates to purchase. Most commissaries offer a selection of the following types of items:

How to write a letter to a loved one?

Keep the content of your letter simple, as well. Tell your loved one how much you miss them, and provide them words of encouragement. While you can give them some updates of your personal life, take care to not include information that could be construed as a message regarding illicit activities and associates. Do not include any language of a sexual or derogatory nature at all.

What to put on envelopes?

Don’t spray perfume or cologne on the envelope. Don’t even use tape to seal it.

Can you send a preapproved package to a prisoner?

Preapproved packages. Though your loved one can receive such items via mail, they will still be checked by prison administration before being handed over to the inmate. If the item is deemed unacceptable, it’ll be disposed of – and your loved one may not even be notified that you sent it.

Can you send a letter with glitter?

The physical letter or card should be nothing fancy, either. Avoid sending cards with glitter or other “flashy” material. Even something like beveled lettering could be enough to lead administration to dispose of your heartfelt message. Never include things such as staples and paperclips when sending letters or cards.

Who approves packages for inmates in California?

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has to approve the vendors before you can use their services to send a package to an inmate in the Golden State.

Who sends packages to inmates?

People who send packages to inmates are usually their friends and family members. The ones who have the closest bond with an inmate usually want to brighten up their day and help them endure their sentence with a bit more ease by surprising them with certain items.

When Will the Package Sent to an Inmate in California Arrive?

The vendors will try to deliver the package you sent to an inmate as fast as they can, and it usually doesn’t take more than 15 days. The exception to this rule is the holiday season (Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving), or if the prisoner is in a lockdown.

Can you send quarterly packages to inmates?

Family members and friends are not allowed to send quarterly inmate packages directly to inmates located in California state prisons. If you want to send a package to a prisoner in this area of the United States, you can pick any of the following vendors: Union Supply Direct. Access Securepak. Walkenhorst’s.

Can you receive emails from prisoners?

The conversation should go both ways so the inmate and their pen pal can maintain meaningful communication. If you wish to receive emails from prisoners, you should use our Virtual Mailbox feature.

Can a package go through a strict screening?

The packages must go through strict screening, which can also cause delivery delays.

Can you send a package to a prisoner?

Those are also the people who can be found on the approved visitation list, and if you fall into that category, you should have no problems sending a package to a prisoner.

Reasons to Send Money

Funds to Inmate (for discretionary spending). Money that is being sent to the inmate for his or her own personal use is subject to restitution and administrative charges.

Message to Approved Vendors

Important: All vendors must receive CDCR approval before providing services to institutions.

Relevant Regulations and Policy

DOM Article 43 policy regarding Inmate Property. When the document opens, type in Article 43 as the search criteria, then press [enter]. After a few seconds, it should take you directly to the Inmate Property section.

Why do people send cards to inmates?

Sending cards by mail is one of the more inexpensive things to send inmates, to let them know they are being thought of . Cards can be emotional and powerful ways to stay connected with your loved one, especially if you are able to send them “for no reason”.

What is the top priority when researching things to send inmates?

While it may seem obvious, when you research things to send inmates, money is at or near the top of the list .

What can you buy with commissary money?

Commissary money can purchase basic necessities like: shampoo. socks and shoes. snacks to supplement meals. funds used to communicate with loved ones. Choosing healthy meals in prison is possible, but supplementing prison meals can help an inmate stay healthy and enjoy eating.

How many meals do inmates get?

Though the provisions from each facility are different, most inmates are given three meals a day, a bar of soap, a place to sleep, and not much else.

Why do inmates need care packages?

Sending an inmate a care package is one of the best ways to support him or her, and make the time more bearable.

Why is reading important to inmates?

When packing up things to send inmates, reading material will give your loved one a way to pass the time. Reading takes people to another world and provides an adventure that is especially enjoyable for an inmate.

Why do we need commissary funds?

Providing your loved one with commissary funds helps them purchase snacks, and sometimes even vitamins that they can use to help lead a healthy lifestyle.

How to find inmate records in California?

Some California inmate records are public records and may be found online using an inmate search tool. These records will have basic personal information like the inmate’s name, address, date of birth, age, and physical description. They may also show more detailed information.

What are the records of inmates in California?

California inmate records consist of various forms, documents, images, audio clips, DNA, fingerprints, video, and other types of media that document an individual’s criminal history and their incarceration in prison or jail. These records come from court records, the local police (such as mug shots, police reports, arrest warrants, ...

How many state prisons are there in California?

California has 35 state prisons spread across the large state. Some of them serve women inmates only and some men. One of them is used to treat inmates with substance abuse issues. Another is specifically designed for rehabilitation, and another facility is a healthcare and medical office.

Where do California jail records come from?

These records come from court records, the local police (such as mug shots, police reports, arrest warrants, and other jail paperwork), and California’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation organization. Other records may be created while the person is held in a specific facility.

Can you send money to an inmate in California?

California allows family and friends to contact inmates and send them money or gifts through the mail directly to the facility where they are incarcerated. The DOC offers three ways to send money to an inmate (EFT, lockbox, or by mail). The instructions for this service are here.

What do inmates use the money they send them?

Inmate's use the funds you send them to purchase items like stamps, envelopes, food, snacks, clothing, and hygiene products from the commissary. Read our guide about sending money to an inmate for more information.

Where do you send money to inmates?

When sending funds through the mail, some institutions will require you send it to the inmate, while other facilities (Folsom, Mule Creek, California State Prison Scramento, San Quentin and Wasco State Prison) will require you to send it to a contracted vendor called JPAY using this deposit form. The address to send it to is on the form.

How many photos can an inmate send?

Inmates can have up to 10 photographs per envelope. The photos can be as large as 8"x10" but must not contain nudity, hand gestures, tattoos, or anything illegal or gang related. Whenever sending photos to an inmate it is a good idea to write the inmates name and ID number in pen on the reverse side of the photo.

How long do cashier checks stay in jail?

Money orders, cashier's checks and personal check may be held for up to 30 days from the date it is deposited. When sending funds through the mail, some institutions will require you send it to the inmate, while other facilities (Folsom, Mule Creek, ...

How much can an inmate deduct from a deposit?

The institution can deduct up to 50% of a deposit if the inmate owes outstanding balances. The funds in an inmate's account will also follow the inmate if they are transferred to a different facility or are released. Inmates in California can receive funds by mail, or online via an electronic funds transfer.

How many pages can an inmate receive?

Inmates may receive up to 10 pages at a time, the pages can be drawings, a child's school work, articles cut from a newspaper or magazine, but may not contain glue, stickers, glitter or any other embellishments such as lipstick perfume etc.

Can you send mail to an inmate?

All mail is opened and inspected, sometimes read. At no time may you send any other items to an inmate directly from you. Inmates can receive books, magazines and newspapers but they must come directly from an approved source, we will give more information about how you can send these things to an inmate below.

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1.Sending Inmate Packages from Approved Vendors

Url:https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/family-resources/sending-inmate-packages-from-approved-vendors/

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2.California Inmate Phones/Sending Money & Mail | PrisonPro

Url:https://www.prisonpro.com/content/california-inmate-phonessending-money-mail

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3.How To Send a California Inmate Package - DoNotPay

Url:https://donotpay.com/learn/california-inmate-package/

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Url:https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/family-resources/send-money-to-an-inmate/

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5.5 Awesome Things to Send Inmates in a Care Package

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6.California Inmate Search, Prison and Jail Information

Url:https://www.statecourts.org/inmate-search/california/

31 hours ago California allows family and friends to contact inmates and send them money or gifts through the mail directly to the facility where they are incarcerated. The DOC offers three ways to send …

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