Staying Connected: Text Service and Communication Options for Federal Inmates

Maintaining connections with family and friends is crucial for federal inmates. Studies have consistently shown that inmates who maintain strong relationships with their support network are significantly less likely to re-offend after release. The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) recognizes the importance of these ties and provides several avenues for inmates to stay in touch with the outside world. While direct “Text Service For Federal Inmates” as commonly understood on smartphones isn’t available, secure electronic messaging systems like TRULINCS offer a similar form of text-based communication. This article will explore the various communication methods available to federal inmates, focusing on electronic messaging and other options for maintaining vital connections.

Secure Electronic Messaging: TRULINCS

In today’s digital age, electronic messaging is a primary form of communication. For federal inmates, the Trust Fund Limited Inmate Computer System (TRULINCS) provides a secure method to exchange electronic messages with approved contacts outside of prison. This system is designed to facilitate communication in a controlled environment, helping inmates maintain family ties and support networks which are vital for successful reentry into society and reducing recidivism.

How TRULINCS Works

TRULINCS allows inmates to send and receive messages through a secure, monitored system. It’s important to understand that TRULINCS is not internet access. Inmates do not have access to the internet or general email services. TRULINCS is a closed system specifically designed for communication between inmates and their approved contacts.

Cost of TRULINCS

A key feature of TRULINCS is that it is funded entirely by the Inmate Trust Fund, not taxpayer dollars. This fund is supported by profits from inmate commissary purchases, telephone services, and fees paid by inmates for using TRULINCS. This means that the service is self-sustaining and does not burden public funds.

TRULINCS Restrictions and Guidelines

To ensure security and appropriate use, TRULINCS operates with several restrictions:

• Approval Process: Both the inmate and their external contacts must be approved to use the system. Each person an inmate wishes to communicate with must grant permission to be added to their contact list.
• Controlled Access: Inmate access to TRULINCS is strictly controlled. They can only access the system through designated terminals within the facility and do not have internet access.
• Text-Only Messages: Messages are limited to text only. Attachments of any kind, including images or documents, are not permitted.
• Message Length: Messages are limited in size to 13,000 characters, which is roughly equivalent to two pages of text.
• Monitoring: All TRULINCS communication is subject to monitoring. Both inmates and their contacts must consent to this monitoring before using the system. Messages are screened for content that could pose a risk to public safety, facility security, or the orderly operation of the institution.

Benefits of TRULINCS

Despite the restrictions, TRULINCS offers significant benefits:

• Maintaining Family Ties: It provides a convenient and relatively quick way for inmates to stay in touch with family, which is crucial for emotional support and successful reintegration post-release.
• Reducing Recidivism: By strengthening family connections, TRULINCS contributes to reducing the likelihood of inmates returning to criminal behavior after release.
• Secure Communication: The monitored nature of TRULINCS ensures a secure communication environment, preventing misuse while still allowing for meaningful contact.

Traditional Phone Calls

Beyond electronic messaging, traditional phone calls remain an important communication method for federal inmates. The BOP extends telephone privileges to inmates to help them maintain relationships with family and community contacts. It’s important to note that third-party or alternative call arrangements are prohibited to prevent misuse of phone privileges for criminal or inappropriate activities.

Phone Call Costs

Typically, inmates are responsible for the cost of their phone calls. However, in some instances, collect calls where the receiving party pays are possible. Specific details regarding phone call costs and providers can be obtained from the individual facility or the BOP website.

Phone Call Restrictions and Monitoring

Similar to electronic messaging, phone calls are subject to restrictions and monitoring to maintain security and order within correctional facilities.

• Limitations: Limits and conditions may be placed on an inmate’s telephone privileges as deemed necessary for correctional management. This could include restrictions on call duration, call frequency, or approved call recipients.
• Monitoring Notice: Visible notices are posted near all inmate telephones to inform inmates that calls are subject to monitoring. This is a standard practice in correctional facilities to ensure security and prevent illicit activities.
• Attorney Calls: In specific circumstances, unmonitored calls to attorneys are permitted to protect attorney-client privilege. Inmates must follow specific procedures to arrange these privileged calls.

Sending and Receiving Mail

Traditional mail remains a vital link between inmates and the outside world. The BOP encourages inmates to maintain connections through written correspondence, classifying mail into two categories: general and special mail.

General Correspondence

General correspondence includes letters sent through regular mail channels. To ensure safety and security, all general correspondence is opened and inspected by staff. This inspection is for both contraband and any content that might threaten the institution’s security or good order.

Special Mail

Special mail, which must be clearly marked as such, is handled with a different procedure. Incoming special mail is opened only in the presence of the inmate. While it is also inspected for physical contraband, the process respects the potentially sensitive nature of certain types of mail, such as legal correspondence.

Publications

Inmates are also permitted to receive certain commercial publications directly from publishers. Subscriptions to magazines and books are allowed without prior approval, provided the content is not deemed detrimental to the security, discipline, or good order of the institution, or does not facilitate criminal activity. This allows inmates access to reading materials and information from the outside world.

Sending Packages

Receiving packages from home is generally restricted for federal inmates. Packages are not allowed without prior written authorization from the inmate’s unit team or an authorized staff member at the institution. The primary exceptions are packages containing approved release clothing and authorized medical devices. However, as mentioned, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from publishers, which is an important avenue for receiving reading materials.

Sending Money to Inmates

Financial support from family and friends can be essential for inmates, allowing them to purchase commissary items and cover communication costs. The BOP provides several approved methods for sending money to inmates, ensuring secure and trackable transactions. Funds sent are deposited into the inmate’s commissary account, managed by the Bureau of Prisons.

MoneyGram

MoneyGram’s ExpressPayment Program is a fast and reliable way to send funds electronically to federal inmates.

• Availability: Funds can be sent and received seven days a week, including holidays.
• Processing Time: Funds sent between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. EST are typically posted within 2-4 hours. Funds sent after 9:00 p.m. EST are posted by 7:00 a.m. the following morning.

Important Notice: It is crucial to ensure the accuracy of inmate information when sending funds. Incorrect information can lead to rejected transactions or funds being deposited into the wrong account.

Required Information for MoneyGram:

1. Account Number: Inmate’s eight-digit register number (no spaces or dashes) followed immediately by the inmate’s last name (e.g., 12345678DOE).
2. Company Name: Federal Bureau of Prisons
3. City & State: Washington, DC
4. Receive Code: 7932
5. Beneficiary: Inmate’s full committed name

MoneyGram Sending Options:

• MoneyGram Location: Find a local MoneyGram agent by calling 1-800-926-9400 or visiting www.moneygram.com. Use the MoneyGram ExpressPayment Blue Form, and cash is accepted.
• Online: Visit https://www.moneygram.com/mgo/us/en/paybills and use receive code 7932 or search for Federal Bureau of Prisons. First-time users need to create a profile. MasterCard or Visa credit cards are required.

For questions or concerns about MoneyGram transfers, contact MoneyGram directly. For general information on inmate commissary and deposits, consult the Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual. For specific deposit inquiries, contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.

Western Union

Western Union’s Quick Collect Program is another efficient method for sending funds to federal inmates.

• Availability and Processing Time: Similar to MoneyGram, funds are processed seven days a week, with comparable processing times. Funds sent during business hours are generally available within hours, while those sent after hours are available the next morning.

Important Notice: Accuracy of inmate details is paramount to avoid transaction issues.

Required Information for Western Union:

1. Account Number: Inmate’s eight-digit register number followed by the last name (no spaces or dashes).
2. Attention Line: Inmate’s full committed name.
3. Code City: FBOP, DC

Western Union Sending Options:

• Send2Corrections Mobile App: Download the “Send2Corrections” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Use an existing Western Union account or create a new one. Credit/debit cards are required for online payments. Payment can be initiated via the app and completed with cash at an agent location.
• Online: Visit www.send2corrections.com. Credit/debit card required for online payments. Option to initiate online and pay cash at an agent location is also available.
• Western Union Location: Locate an agent using the agent locator or by calling 1-800-325-6000. Cash and debit cards (at select locations) are accepted. Provide the inmate’s register number and last name, facility name “Federal Bureau of Prisons,” and code city “FBOP DC.”
• Phone: Call 1-800-634-3422, option 2. Credit/debit card required.

For Western Union transfer inquiries, contact Western Union directly. For general information, refer to the Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual. For deposit-specific questions, call BOP staff at 202-307-2712 during business hours.

United States Postal Service (USPS)

Funds can also be sent via USPS to the FBOP’s centralized Lockbox.

Important Instructions:

• Acceptable Negotiable Instruments Only: Money orders, U.S. Government checks, cashier’s checks/certified checks/bank drafts.
• Inmate Information: The inmate’s full committed name and eight-digit register number must be legibly printed on all negotiable instruments and on the outside of the envelope.
• Hold on Certain Instruments: Non-U.S. postal money orders and non-government checks are held for 15 days. Foreign negotiable instruments payable in U.S. dollars are held for 45 days.
• Prohibited Items: Personal checks, cash, and additional items are not accepted and will be disposed of.

Mailing Address:

John Doe
123 Main St.
Herndon, VA 22071

Federal Bureau of Prisons
**Insert Valid Committed Inmate Name**
**Insert Inmate Eight-Digit Register Number**
Post Office Box 474701
Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001

Return Address: Your name and return address must be on the envelope’s upper left corner for fund return if undeliverable.

Postage: Ensure sufficient postage after confirming the inmate is at a BOP facility.

Troubleshooting USPS Transfers:

• Delayed Funds: If funds haven’t arrived in a reasonable time, initiate a tracer with the instrument issuer.
• Returned Funds: Likely due to missing or incorrect inmate information. Ensure valid inmate name and register number are used.

For further details, consult the Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual. For specific deposit questions, contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 during business hours.

Conclusion

Staying connected during incarceration is vital for federal inmates’ well-being and successful reentry. While “text service for federal inmates” in the smartphone sense is not available, TRULINCS provides a secure electronic messaging system. Combined with phone calls, mail, and methods for sending funds, these communication options facilitate crucial relationships between inmates and their families and friends, contributing to rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Understanding and utilizing these services effectively can make a significant positive impact during and after incarceration.