What Can You Include in a Letter to an Inmate?

What Can You Include in a Letter to an Inmate? A Complete Guide

When sending a letter to a loved one in a U.S. facility, you often want to send more than just words. You might want to share a recent photo, an important legal document, or a postcard from a trip. While most facilities allow attachments, there are strict rules to prevent "contraband" from entering the prison.

At Sendinmatemail, we make it easy to add these extras while ensuring they meet facility standards. Here is what you can legally include in your mail.

1. Photos (The Most Important Connection)

Photos are allowed in almost every U.S. jail and prison, but they must follow specific rules:

Size: Most facilities only allow 4x6 prints.
Quantity: Often limited to 5 or 10 photos per envelope.
Content: No nudity, gang signs, or depictions of illegal acts.
Type: Polaroids are strictly banned. Only standard lab-printed photos are accepted.

2. Postcards

Postcards are a great way to send a quick "thinking of you" message.

Guidelines: They should be standard size and contain no 3D elements, glitter, or stickers.
Sendinmatemail Tip: We offer a wide variety of themed postcards that you can personalize and include with your letter.

3. Legal and Educational Documents

If you need to send court records, news articles, or educational materials:

Format: Use standard white 8.5x11 paper.
No Bindings: Do not use staples, paperclips, or binders. These are security risks.
Sendinmatemail Tip: You can upload your PDF or Word documents directly to our platform, and we will print them in a compliant, "staple-free" format for you.

4. Books (The Golden Rule)

This is where the U.S. system differs from many others.

The Rule: You cannot put a book inside an envelope with your letter. If you do, the whole package will be rejected.
The Method: Books must be sent directly from a publisher or an authorized distributor (like Amazon or Barnes & Noble).
Condition: Only new, softcover (paperback) books are allowed. Hardcover books are usually banned as they can be used to hide contraband or used as weapons.

Why Use a Professional Service for Attachments?

The biggest reason for mail rejection in the U.S. is "improper attachments."

We ensure your photos are the right size and type.
We print your documents on approved paper without prohibited fasteners.
We format everything so it is easy for the mailroom staff to scan and deliver.

Make your letter special with the right extras. [Add photos or documents to your letter now.]