Are there rules about sending photos and other things?

Photos are generally acceptable so long as you are properly clothed. For you that are more daring, a tip — some facilities deny anything with too much skin. Georgia has recently banned biker magazines because of the scantily-clad ladies (and it's fairly tame as far as that goes). Polaroids are generally refused because of the small pouch for the developing chemicals.

Photos or pictures depicting cartoon characters engaged in sexual acts are not permitted at most prisons.

When something in an envelope is deemed 'contraband,' the whole envelope is refused and sent back or trashed. Some institutions make the inmate pay to have it sent back (and throw it away if the inmate can't pay).

Perishable items are generally refused, as is most anything else of use to the inmate. Inmates are required to purchase most necessities through the facility's Canteen.

Books and magazines usually must be sent directly from a publisher or commercial business. Even newspaper clippings can be refused if the facility considers it harmful to the security of the facility (and their guidelines don't always make sense). Sometimes printouts of Internet websites and information from the Internet are refused.

If you do choose to send money to an inmate, check with them first. Every state has their own rules and sometimes these rules are directly opposite those in other states. Some allow money only from immediate family members; others don't have any restrictions at all.

Some insist on postal money orders and some only personal checks. Remember, CellblockMail.com can help, no matter which prison you're sending money to. You can Send Cash or Pay Fines online.