Mail sent into and out of any correctional facility will be read. Don’t send letters that reference criminal activity, business affairs or escape plans.

• Letters must include a full name and return address for the sender.

• Use the inmate’s full name and UPC code or register number.

• Small water stains or dirt on a letter can cause it to be rejected. No tears, damnit!

• Stationary and cards are allowed, but artwork with glue, glitter, paint, felt pens, crayons or markers will be rejected. Hallmark should make a prison-approved line of cards because they’ll stick glitter on anything and glue in the most surprising places. Check cards closely. The basic rule of thumb is that the BOP is inimical toward art and beauty.

• Correspondence using code or is not allowed. Not even pig latin. No porn either.

• A single photocopy of an interesting news or magazine article may be sent. Originals from the newspaper or magazine cannot. Multiple copies of an article are not allowed (no propagandizing in prison).

• Inmates are only allowed a limited number of photos and no Polariods. It’s better to send color copies of photos than originals, as copies don’t count against the limit (go figure).

• Don’t send uncancelled stamps, blank paper or cards. Inmates are sometimes limited in how many stamps and envelopes they can buy so responses may be slow.

• All publications must be received directly from the publisher or distributors like Powells or Amazon.

• No message can be sent on the outside of the envelope so no clever notes.

• PDFs of BOP policies on all inmate matters can be accessed here. Correspondence is policy number 5265.11

Don’t be discouraged by the BOP’s “culture of no”! Trying to get a letter into a prison is a window into the intense bureaucratic rules that govern every aspect of a prisoner’s life. The rules can seem daunting but a simple, heartfelt letter can breach the walls and makes a huge difference to those inside. Mail is the single most important aspect of many prisoners’ lives. Please try. Questions? Contact us.