Resources for Family & Friends

The Idaho Department of Correction knows the support of family and friends is an important part of the offender’s rehabilitative progess. Family members may need more information about what their loved one is going through and what they can do to help. The information provided below will facilitate that process. 

Sending mail 

Be sure to read Mail Guidelines before sending mail to an offender.  

Sending Money 

Money orders sent to offenders should be sent to the facility where the offender is located with a few exceptions.  Deposits for offenders at community work centers and at Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center should be sent to Central Office Inmate Banking. Send money orders or cashier’s checks. Personal checks will not be accepted and it is unwise to send cash in the mail.

The money order should include the following information: offender's first and last name, offender’s number, the institution and housing unit where the offender is located, plus the name and address of the remitter. Remember to sign the money order or cashier’s check. All money received is placed on the offender's account within 24 hours, during normal working days, after receiving the funds. We recommend sending a cashier’s check for amounts of $500.00 or greater. No cash or personal checks are allowed. For more information, please see Offender Accounts.

Phone Calls

Phone Services explains how to purchase prepaid collect service for offenders. 

Other Services

A more complete list of services can be found at Offender Services.

Offender Placement

All new offenders go through a classification process to determine their placement, housing and custody level. 

Brochure for Friends and Families is a printable pamphlet containing general information about the corrections and parole process.

For a much more detailed resource covering all aspects of incarceration as well as felony probation and parole, read the 61 page Handbook for Family and Friends.

Additional resources for family and friends can be found at the Idaho 2-1-1 CareLine.