SoCal Inmate Info

Sending Mail to Someone in Jail

How to address letters, what you can and can't send, and why mail gets returned.

Addressing your letter

Include the person's full name and booking number, and use the mailing address the Sheriff lists for that facility. That address is often different from the jail's street address. Put your full name and return address on the envelope.

What usually isn't allowed

Most jails reject mail with stickers, glitter, perfume, lipstick, staples, padded envelopes, Polaroid photos or anything that isn't paper. Some facilities scan all mail and only give the person a digital copy.

Books and magazines usually have to be mailed directly from a publisher or an approved retailer.

Legal mail

Mail from an attorney is handled under special procedures. Families should not label personal letters as legal mail.

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