Gregg County Jail Inmate Mail Rules, Address & Guidelines

Gregg County Jail Inmate Mail must follow strict rules to ensure delivery. All letters, legal documents, medical records, and approved items go through a secure screening process. The jail operates two facilities—South Jail and North Jail—each with specific mailing procedures. Sending mail incorrectly can result in rejection or return. This page explains exactly how to address envelopes, what’s allowed, what’s banned, and how to contact the mailroom for help. Use this information to send mail safely and successfully.

Official Mailing Addresses for Gregg County Jail Inmates

There are two jails in Gregg County: South Jail and North Jail. Each has a different mailing address. Mail sent to the wrong location may be delayed or returned. Always verify the inmate’s current location before sending anything.

South Jail Mailing Address:
Inmate’s Full Legal Name
Gregg County South Jail
PO Box 591
Longview, TX 75606

North Jail Mailing Address:
Inmate’s Full Legal Name
Gregg County North Jail
101 West Whaley
Longview, TX 75601

Use the South Jail PO Box for general correspondence. The North Jail accepts physical mail at its street address. Never send cash, checks, or money orders through regular mail. Use the official phone deposit system instead.

How to Address Envelopes Correctly

Proper addressing ensures your mail reaches the inmate quickly. Missing details cause delays or returns. Follow these steps every time you send a letter.

Write the inmate’s full legal name—no nicknames or aliases.
Include “Gregg County South Jail” or “Gregg County North Jail” based on their location.
Print the correct mailing address clearly.
Add your full return address in the top-left corner.
Do not use stickers, tape, or decorations on the envelope.

Example of a correctly addressed envelope:

John Michael Smith
Gregg County South Jail
PO Box 591
Longview, TX 75606

[Your Name]
123 Main Street
Your City, TX 75000

Staff process mail Monday through Friday. Allow 3–5 business days for delivery after arrival at the facility.

What You Can Send: Approved Items List

Only certain items are allowed. The jail screens all mail for safety. Approved items include plain letters, small photos, and official documents.

Handwritten or typed letters on plain paper
Photographs no larger than 4×6 inches (no Polaroids)
Legal documents in sealed “Legal” envelopes
Medical records in sealed “Medical” envelopes
Postcards with standard messaging

All envelopes must be flat and unsealed when received. Staff open and inspect every piece of mail. Do not include anything inside that violates jail policy.

What Is Not Allowed: Prohibited Items

Sending banned items will result in rejection. The mailroom returns prohibited materials unopened with a “Returned to Sender” stamp. Repeated violations may limit future mail privileges.

Magazines, newspapers, or books
Bulk mail or promotional flyers
Stickers, glitter, glue, or tape
Perfume, lotions, or scented items
Food, candy, or gum
Cash, checks, or money orders
Clothing, fabric, or personal items
Electronic devices or batteries

Books must be sent directly from a publisher or bookstore. No used books are accepted. Magazines and newspapers are never allowed, even if they’re educational.

Legal and Medical Mail: Special Rules

Legal and medical correspondence has extra requirements. These documents are sensitive and must be handled securely. Follow the labeling rules exactly.

Legal Mail:
– Must show the court case number on the outside
– Placed in a sealed envelope marked “Legal”
– Only from attorneys, courts, or government agencies
– Personal legal letters (e.g., from family) are not considered legal mail

Medical Mail:
– Include the treating physician’s full name
– Patient name (the inmate’s name)
– Brief description of treatment or records
– Sealed envelope labeled “Medical”

Staff will verify the sender’s identity for legal and medical mail. If the envelope isn’t properly labeled, it will be treated as regular mail and may be opened in front of the inmate.

How to Send Money to an Inmate

Do not send cash or checks through the mail. Use the official phone deposit system to add funds to an inmate’s account. This money can be used for phone calls, commissary items, or medical co-pays.

Call 800-943-2189 to make a deposit. Have the inmate’s full name and booking number ready. Deposits are processed immediately and appear on the account within minutes.

You can also visit the Jail Division office at 101 East Methvin, Suite 559, Longview, TX 75601, to deposit money in person. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Online deposits are not currently available. All transactions must be done by phone or in person.

How to Find an Inmate’s Location and Status

Before sending mail, confirm the inmate is housed in Gregg County. Use the official jail roster to check their status, location, and booking number.

Visit the Gregg County Jail Roster and search by name or booking number. The roster shows:

Current location (South or North Jail)
Booking number
Charge classification
Bond amount
Next court date

If you can’t find the inmate online, call the Jail Division at (903) 236-8400. Staff can confirm their location and mailing address.

Note: Inmates may be transferred between facilities. Always check the roster before sending mail.

Visitation Rules and Schedules

Visitation is separate from mail but follows strict rules. All visitors must present a government-issued photo ID. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

South Jail Visitation Hours:
– Thursdays: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
– Saturdays: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

North Jail Visitation Hours:
– Posted at the facility entrance
– Call (903) 236-8400 for current schedule

Visitors must check in at the lobby, show ID, and sign the log. Security may search bags and personal items. No cell phones, cameras, or recording devices are allowed.

Special visits (e.g., for attorneys or clergy) must be arranged in advance. Use the Request/Grievance Form or call the Sheriff’s Office.

Contact Information for Mailroom and Jail Division

For questions about inmate mail, call the Mailroom directly. Staff can confirm policies, check delivery status, or explain why mail was returned.

Mailroom Phone: (903) 236-8400
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Email: Available through the official portal on the Sheriff’s website

Jail Division Office:
101 East Methvin, Suite 559
Longview, TX 75601

For complaints or compliments about staff, contact Chief Deputy Craig Harrington at (903) 236-8400.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gregg County Jail Inmate Mail

Many people have similar questions about sending mail to inmates. Below are answers to the most common concerns. If you don’t find what you need, call the Mailroom for help.

Can I send magazines or newspapers to an inmate?

No. Magazines, newspapers, and bulk mail are not allowed at either Gregg County jail. These items will be returned unopened. The only reading material permitted is books sent directly from a publisher or bookstore. Even then, only new books are accepted. Do not send used books, comics, or printed articles. If you want to share news, write it in a letter instead. Staff inspect all mail, and prohibited items delay processing for everyone.

What happens if I forget to include my return address?

Mail without a return address may be delayed or discarded. The jail requires a clear return address to send back prohibited items or notify you of issues. If your envelope lacks this info, staff might not know where to return it. Always print your full name and address in the top-left corner. This helps protect both you and the inmate. It also ensures you get notified if something goes wrong.

How long does it take for mail to reach an inmate?

Mail typically arrives within 3–5 business days after being processed. The jail handles incoming correspondence Monday through Friday. Weekends and holidays are not processing days. If you send mail on Friday, it may not be delivered until Wednesday. Legal and medical mail may take longer due to verification. Always allow extra time for important documents. Avoid sending time-sensitive items close to deadlines.

Can I send photos of my children or family?

Yes, but only photos no larger than 4×6 inches. Polaroid photos are not allowed. Do not write on the back of photos or attach them to paper. Send them flat in a standard envelope. Avoid group photos with more than six people, as they may be rejected. Photos must not contain inappropriate content, weapons, or gang symbols. Staff review all images before delivery.

What if my mail is returned to me?

If your mail is returned, check the stamp or note on the envelope. Common reasons include wrong address, missing return info, or prohibited contents. Fix the issue and resend. If you’re unsure why it was rejected, call the Mailroom at (903) 236-8400. Keep a copy of your letter and envelope for reference. Repeated returns may affect your ability to send future mail.

Can inmates send mail back to me?

Yes, inmates can write letters to family and friends. They must use jail-provided paper and envelopes. Outgoing mail is inspected but not read unless there’s a security concern. Inmates need stamps, which they buy from commissary. If you don’t receive a reply, they may not have funds for postage. You can send stamps, but only through approved channels—never inside regular mail.

Is email or online messaging available?

No. Gregg County Jail does not offer email, video calls, or online messaging for inmates. All communication must go through physical mail or approved phone calls. Phone time is limited and monitored. For urgent messages, contact the Jail Division directly. They may pass along non-confidential information in emergencies.

Official Resources and Links

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use these official sources:

Phone: (903) 236-8400
Mailroom Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday
South Jail Address: 101 East Methvin, Suite 559, Longview, TX 75601
North Jail Address: 101 West Whaley, Longview, TX 75601

Always verify policies before sending mail. Rules may change without public notice. When in doubt, call the Mailroom. Your cooperation helps keep the jail safe and communication flowing.