How CorrLinks Works
Learn how CorrLinks works for messaging federal inmates, how to register, how the approval process works, and what the service costs.
Introduction
CorrLinks is the only approved electronic messaging platform for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. If your loved one is in a federal facility, CorrLinks is the only way to exchange electronic messages with them.
This guide explains how the CorrLinks system works, how to register, and what to expect during the approval process.
Guide Content
What CorrLinks Is
CorrLinks is an email-style messaging platform operated by Advanced Technologies Group. It holds an exclusive contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Unlike JPay or ConnectNetwork, CorrLinks does not serve state prisons. It is strictly for federal facilities.
CorrLinks provides text messaging only. Photo sharing and video visitation at federal facilities are handled through separate services. Money transfers for federal inmates go through Access Corrections, not CorrLinks.
How to Register
Go to corrlinks.com and create a free account using your email address. You do not search for the inmate yourself. Instead, the inmate must send you an invitation from their CorrLinks terminal inside the facility.
Once the inmate sends the invitation, you receive an email from CorrLinks with a link to accept it. You must accept within 30 days or the invitation expires. After acceptance, both of you can exchange messages.
How Messaging Works
CorrLinks messaging works like email. You write a message, send it, and the inmate receives it on the CorrLinks terminal in the facility. Messages are reviewed before delivery.
CorrLinks charges a flat monthly subscription fee or per-message fees depending on the plan. The federal inmate's account is charged for messages they send to you. Messages you send are charged to your account. Rates are set by the BOP and are regulated.
Key Differences from JPay
JPay uses a stamp system. CorrLinks uses an account balance that is drawn down per message. JPay serves state prisons. CorrLinks serves federal prisons exclusively. JPay offers photo sharing, video calls, and money transfers in one platform. CorrLinks handles messaging only.
If your loved one is transferred from a federal to a state facility or vice versa, you will need to switch platforms. CorrLinks accounts cannot be used at state facilities, and JPay cannot be used at federal facilities.
Key Takeaways
The most important things to remember from this guide.
- CorrLinks is the only messaging platform approved for federal Bureau of Prisons facilities.
- The inmate must send you an invitation. You cannot initiate contact through CorrLinks.
- Registration is free. Costs are per-message and charged to both sender and receiver.
- CorrLinks handles messaging only. Video and money transfers use different services.
- Invitations expire after 30 days if not accepted.
- If your loved one is in a state prison, you need JPay or another platform, not CorrLinks.
Related Glossary Terms
Key terms you may encounter while reading about How CorrLinks Works.
Inmate Messaging
Inmate messaging is a digital service that lets families and approved contacts send written messages to incarcerated loved ones through a facility-contracted platform such as JPay or CorrLinks.
Facility TypesFederal Prison
A federal prison is a correctional facility operated by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons that houses people convicted of federal crimes and sentenced under federal law.
TechnologyElectronic Messaging
Electronic messaging in the correctional system is a digital service that allows incarcerated people and their approved contacts to exchange written messages through a facility-contracted platform, similar to email but with review and restrictions applied.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about How CorrLinks Works, answered in plain language.
Can I send the first message on CorrLinks?
What if the inmate's invitation expired?
Does CorrLinks work on mobile?
How much does CorrLinks cost?
Can I use CorrLinks for money transfers?
People Also Ask
Related questions families often search for alongside this topic.
What is Inmate Messaging?
Inmate messaging is a digital service that lets families and approved contacts send written messages to incarcerated loved ones through a facility-contracted platform such as JPay or CorrLinks.
Read full definitionWhat is Federal Prison?
A federal prison is a correctional facility operated by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons that houses people convicted of federal crimes and sentenced under federal law.
Read full definitionWhat is Electronic Messaging?
Electronic messaging in the correctional system is a digital service that allows incarcerated people and their approved contacts to exchange written messages through a facility-contracted platform, similar to email but with review and restrictions applied.
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How Inmate Messaging Works
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