CorrLinks is a secure email system that allows families and friends to stay in touch with federal inmates. Operated through the TRULINCS platform, it provides monitored electronic messaging for inmates without internet access.
Messages are delivered within an hour, and while there are no attachments allowed, the system helps maintain essential connections between inmates and their loved ones. This guide will help you navigate setting up your account and effectively using CorrLinks’ features.
CorrLinks: A Secure Inmate Communication System
CorrLinks” combines “corrections” (prison system) and “links” (communication)
CorrLinks is a secure email service allowing federal inmates to communicate with approved contacts outside prison. Inmates request contacts to be added, and once approved, both parties can send monitored messages through the platform. Inmates pay a fee for each message, while external users access the service for free.
Inmates use TRULINCS kiosks to access CorrLinks, paying $0.05 per email via TRU-Units, while outside users can use it for free or pay $6/year for Premier Service with extra features like email alerts.
How Does CorrLinks Work?
CorrLinks is an email system for inmates in federal and some state prisons, allowing them to communicate with family, friends, and legal contacts. It’s part of the TRULINCS system, managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, but also used by some state facilities.
- Setting Up: An inmate adds your email to their contact list. You then receive an email from CorrLinks with instructions to set up a free account. Once you sign up, you can send and receive messages.
- Costs for Inmates: Inmates pay about $0.05 per minute to use the system. Printing messages costs $0.15 per page.
- Message Delivery: Messages are monitored by prison staff for security, which can lead to delays of up to a few hours. Messages are limited to 13,000 characters, and no attachments or images are allowed.
- Using CorrLinks: You must log in to CorrLinks each time to check messages—emails won’t be delivered directly to your regular inbox. However, you can set up alerts to notify you when a message is received.
- Mobile App: CorrLinks has a mobile app, which simplifies communication with features like real-time alerts and faster message downloads. A Premier Account ($6 per year) adds benefits like retaining messages for 60 days and skipping CAPTCHA verifications.
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CorrLinks Availability in Prisons
CorrLinks is available in most federal prisons across the United States through the TRULINCS system. Additionally, it is also available in some state prisons, including institutions in Iowa, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Florida.
However, the availability of CorrLinks may vary by specific facility, and it’s recommended to check with individual prisons for details.
Understanding TRULINCS: Secure Inmate Email System and How It Works
TRULINCS (Trust Fund Limited Inmate Computer System) is a secure email system used by federal inmates to send and receive electronic messages. It allows inmates to stay connected with approved contacts without having access to the open internet.
This system helps maintain relationships with family and friends, aiding in successful reintegration after release.
How TRULINCS Works:
- Approval Required: Inmates must add a contact to their approved list, and the person must accept before messaging can start.
- No Internet Access: Inmates cannot browse the internet; all messages are sent through a secure, monitored system.
- Costs: Inmates pay small fees for using the system, such as $0.05 per minute for typing messages.
- Message Monitoring: All messages are screened for security, so delivery might take some time.
Corrlinks Costs and Fees In 2024
Corrlinks is a key tool for inmates to communicate with people outside prison, but there are costs involved:
- For Inmates: Inmates are charged about $0.05 per minute to use Corrlinks. This fee is taken from their commissary account. If they want to print an email, it costs $0.15 per page.
- For Outside Users: Accessing Corrlinks via the web is free. However, using the mobile app costs around $6 per year. If you want premium features like email alerts, there’s an additional cost of about $3 per year.
How Do I Create a CorrLinks Account?
Creating a CorrLinks account is a simple process, essential for staying in touch with federal inmates. Here’s how to do it:
Corrlinks Login Steps
- Visit the CorrLinks Website: Start by going to the official CorrLinks website.
- Register Your Account:
- Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button.
- Enter your email address and create a strong password.
- You will receive a confirmation email. Open it and click on the link to verify your email address.
- Add an Inmate to Your Contact List:
- Federal inmates must first add your email to their TRULINCS system.
- You’ll then receive an email invitation. Accept this to connect with the inmate.
- Activate Your Account:
- Enter any authorization code provided during the setup.
- Enable email alerts to get notifications about new messages.
- Start Messaging:
- Log into your CorrLinks account.
- Select the inmate you want to communicate with.
- Compose your message and click “Send.” Messages are reviewed by institution staff and typically delivered within 1-2 hours.
This guide ensures you set up your account correctly, allowing you to communicate efficiently and securely with inmates through CorrLinks.
What Should I Do If I Forget My CorrLink Login Password?
If you forget your CorrLinks password, here’s a simple guide to help you reset it:
- Go to the CorrLinks Website: Start by visiting the CorrLinks login page.
- Find “Forgot your password?”: Below the login box, you’ll see a link that says “Forgot your password?” Click on it.
- Enter Your Email: Type in the email address that you used to sign up for CorrLinks.
- Verify You’re Not a Robot: You might need to complete a simple CAPTCHA to prove you’re human.
- Check Your Email: CorrLinks will send you an email with a link or instructions to reset your password. Make sure to check your inbox, and if it’s not there, look in your spam folder.
- Set a New Password: Follow the link in the email to create a new password. Choose something secure but easy for you to remember.
This process should help you quickly get back into your CorrLinks account. If you need more help, CorrLinks also has a support page with additional information.
CorrLinks Main Menu for Inmate Communication
The CorrLinks main menu is where you manage your communication with inmates. Here’s a simple breakdown of its features:
- Mailbox: This is where you can send and receive messages to and from inmates. To send a message, you choose the inmate from a list, write your message, and send it. The messages are reviewed before delivery.
- Account Management: Here, you can update your account settings, such as changing your password or setting up email alerts so you know when you receive a new message. You can also manage your list of inmate contacts.
- Compose New Message: This option lets you start a new email. You pick the inmate from your contact list, write your message, and send it.
- Manage Inmate List: This is where you add or remove inmates from your contact list. You’ll need their identification code to add them.
- Photos: If allowed, you can send photos to inmates. There are rules about what kind of photos you can send.
- Settings and Help: Adjust your settings or find help if you need it.
- Funds Management: If you’re messaging someone in a state or county facility, you might need to add money to your account to pay for sending messages.
Remember, all communications through CorrLinks are monitored, and the costs can vary depending on the facility.
CorrLinks Messaging: Key Points to Know
CorrLinks is a simple tool for messaging inmates in federal prisons. Here’s how it works:
- Account Setup: Inmates add your email to their contact list. You receive an email with instructions to create a free CorrLinks account.
- Sending Messages: Messages can be up to 13,000 characters long (about 2,000 words) and must be text-only. No photos, videos, or attachments are allowed. Messages are reviewed by prison staff and may take 1-2 hours (or longer) to deliver.
- Receiving Messages: Inmate messages go to your CorrLinks inbox, not your personal email. If you have Premier Service, you can get email alerts when new messages arrive.
- Monitoring: All messages are monitored for security reasons, which can lead to delays in delivery.
CorrLinks allows for easy communication with inmates, but it’s important to remember that all messages are subject to review and certain restrictions.
CorrLinks Premier Service: Upgrade for Easier Inmate Communication
CorrLinks Premier Service is a paid version of the regular CorrLinks messaging system that makes it simpler for people to stay in contact with their incarcerated loved ones.
For an affordable fee of $6 per year, Premier Service offers several useful benefits:
- Real-Time Email Alerts: You get instant email notifications whenever an inmate sends you a message, saving you the hassle of frequently checking the website.
- Faster Access: Logging in is quicker, and your messages are stored for 60 days instead of the standard 30.
- Mobile-Friendly: Premier users no longer need to deal with Captcha on mobile devices, can download messages faster, and can connect up to three devices to their account.
- Overall Convenience: You don’t need to keep logging in to check for new messages, making communication smoother for frequent users.
This service is perfect for those who want an easier and more efficient way to stay connected with inmates.
CorrLinks Mobile App
CorrLinks is an app that lets you easily communicate with loved ones in prison. It sends real-time alerts, stores messages for 60 days, and allows you to connect up to three devices. The service costs $6 per year, and while secure, all messages are monitored.
CorrLinks App Features
The CorrLinks mobile app makes it easy to stay in touch with inmates. Here are its key features:
- Real-Time Alerts: You get instant notifications when you receive a message, so you can reply quickly.
- No Repeated Logins: The app keeps you logged in, making it more convenient to use.
- Faster Downloads: Messages download faster on the app than the website.
- Longer Message Storage: You can keep your messages for 60 days, longer than the standard 30 days.
- Multiple Devices: You can connect up to three devices to your account.
- Premier Account: For $6 a year, you get extra features like no CAPTCHAs and quicker messaging.
Overall, the app simplifies staying connected with loved ones in prison.
How CorrLinks Enhances Inmate Rehabilitation and Support Systems
CorrLinks helps inmates by keeping them connected with their loved ones and providing access to important support systems, which are crucial for their rehabilitation.
- Maintaining Connections: Inmates can regularly communicate with family and friends through CorrLinks. This helps reduce their feelings of isolation and improves their chances of successful reintegration into society.
- Accessing Support: CorrLinks allows inmates to connect with counselors and educational programs. These resources help inmates address personal challenges and prepare for life after prison.
- Preparing for Release: By staying informed about job opportunities and community resources, inmates can plan better for their future, reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
- Emotional support from family through CorrLinks keeps inmates motivated and focused on self-improvement. Frequent contact with family through CorrLinks helps inmates participate in educational programs and prepare for successful reintegration into society.
- Family connections play a crucial role in rehabilitation, improving mental health and reducing the risk of reoffending after release.
CorrLinks is more than just an email service; it’s a vital tool for supporting inmates’ rehabilitation and successful return to society.
CorrLinks Restrictions and Limitations
CorrLinks is a system used by federal inmates to send and receive emails with approved contacts outside the prison. While it’s a useful tool for staying in touch, there are some important restrictions and limitations you should know about:
- Message Size Limit: Each email sent through CorrLinks can be up to 13,000 characters long, which is about 2,000 words. If you need to write more, you can always send another email.
- No Attachments or Media: CorrLinks only allows plain text messages. This means you cannot send or receive photos, videos, or any type of attachments. If you try to include these, they will be removed before the email is delivered.
- Message Monitoring: All messages sent through CorrLinks are monitored by prison staff. This means that nothing you send is private, even if it’s a message to a lawyer. Everything is reviewed to ensure it doesn’t violate prison rules.
- Costs for Inmates: Inmates have to pay to use CorrLinks. They are charged about $0.05 per minute to read or write emails, and it costs $0.15 per page to print messages. These costs can add up quickly given the low wages inmates typically earn.
- Message Delivery Time: Emails usually reach the recipient within 1-2 hours, but this can vary depending on the prison’s review process. All messages are checked before they are sent out or received.
- No Internet Access: Inmates using CorrLinks do not have access to the internet. They can only use the system to send and receive emails, and they do this through computers provided in the prison.
- Setting Up an Account: If you want to email an inmate, they must first invite you. Once you receive the invitation, you can create a free CorrLinks account and start communicating.
CorrLinks helps inmates stay connected, but it’s monitored, has restrictions, and involves costs for them.
Common CorrLinks Issues and Simple Fixes
CorrLinks is a useful tool for staying in touch with inmates, but users often face a few common problems. Here’s a quick guide to help you troubleshoot.
1. Message Delivery Delays
- Problem: Messages take longer than expected to be delivered.
- Fix: Messages are monitored, which can slow down delivery. Ensure you have a good internet connection and be patient, especially during busy times.
2. Account Setup Problems
- Problem: Trouble setting up a CorrLinks account, such as not receiving the confirmation email.
- Fix: Check your spam or junk folder, verify your email address, use a supported browser, and if issues persist, contact CorrLinks support.
3. Mobile App Issues
- Problem: The app crashes, won’t log in, or doesn’t send notifications.
- Fix: Update the app, clear the cache, reinstall if necessary, and check your phone’s notification settings.
4. Payment and Subscription Problems
- Problem: Issues with subscribing to Premier service or processing payments.
- Fix: Make sure your payment info is correct and try a different payment method if needed. Contact support for further help.
These simple steps should help you resolve most issues with CorrLinks. For more help, contact CorrLinks customer service.
Pros and Cons of CorrLinks
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Easy Communication | Technical Issues |
CorrLinks allows inmates to stay in touch with loved ones easily and securely. | Users often face problems like syncing errors and difficulties accessing messages. |
Affordable | Limited Functionality |
Outside users can access CorrLinks for free or pay $6 per year for extra features. | The platform lacks advanced features like photo sharing or video calls. |
Positive Impact on Inmates | Inconsistent Customer Support |
Regular communication through CorrLinks helps improve inmates’ mental health and supports their rehabilitation. | Some users report poor customer service, with delayed or unhelpful responses. |
Security | Message Delays |
Messages are encrypted, providing privacy and security. | Messages can be delayed by a few hours due to monitoring by prison staff. |
How Do Features of CorrLinks, JPay, and Securus Differ for Inmate Messaging?
Feature | CorrLinks | JPay | Securus |
---|---|---|---|
Cost (Inmates) | $0.05/min | $0.49/email | Varies |
Cost (Users) | Free or $6/year | $0.49/email | Varies |
Features | Text emails | Emails, photos, videos | Emails, video calls |
Availability | Federal, some state prisons | 21 states | Many state prisons |
CorrLinks Login Video Guide
CorrLinks Sign Up guide with Pictures
FAQs Regarding CorrLinks
What is a premier account on CorrLinks?
A Premier account on CorrLinks offers features like real-time alerts and extended message retention for 60 days. It costs $6 per year and enhances the messaging experience.
How do I open my CorrLinks account?
To open a CorrLinks account, you need an email address. When an inmate invites you, follow the instructions in the email to set up your account.
How much does CorrLinks cost?
CorrLinks costs $6 per year for a Premier account, and federal inmates are charged $0.05 per minute to send messages.
How do I unblock an inmate in CorrLinks?
To unblock an inmate, log into CorrLinks, go to “Manage My Inmate List,” and remove the block from the specific inmate.
What is a premier account?
A Premier account is an upgraded subscription on CorrLinks that costs $6 per year and provides extra features like faster message downloads and real-time alerts.
What is a Premier current account?
A Premier current account is a type of bank account with extra features like higher withdrawal limits. The specific benefits depend on the bank offering it.
Do I need money to use CorrLinks?
Yes, a Premier account costs $6 per year, and inmates need funds to send messages through CorrLinks.
Does CorrLinks have video visits?
CorrLinks does not offer video visits; it is mainly an email service for communicating with inmates.
How do you know if an inmate blocked you on getting out?
If an inmate blocks you on CorrLinks, you won’t receive messages from them, and they won’t appear in your contact list.
How much money can a federal inmate have in their account?
Federal inmates can have up to $320 per month for commissary purchases, with no limit on total account deposits.
Are CorrLinks monitored?
Yes, all messages sent through CorrLinks are monitored by the institution, which can cause delays in message delivery.
Is there a texting app for federal inmates?
Yes, CorrLinks offers a texting service that allows messages to be sent to phones as texts, with limitations on message length.
Can prisoners get emails?
Yes, prisoners can receive emails through CorrLinks, but all messages are monitored, and attachments are not allowed.
Real Stories: How CorrLinks Keeps Families Connected
When James was sentenced to federal prison, his wife, Laura, felt overwhelmed by the sudden separation. With limited visiting hours and high phone call costs, they struggled to stay connected.
Then, they discovered CorrLinks. This email service became their lifeline. Every evening, Laura would send updates about their daily life, while James would reply with messages of love and encouragement.
CorrLinks allowed them to maintain a regular communication routine, helping their relationship endure the challenges of incarceration. The consistent contact kept James grounded and motivated, reminding him that he had a family waiting for him, which was crucial for his mental health and eventual reintegration.
Through CorrLinks, their bond remained strong, showing the importance of staying connected even when physically apart.
Author
Staying Connected: A Complete Guide to Navigating Corrlinks with Ease
Ayla Sam helps people navigate Corrlinks to stay connected with loved ones in prison. Her blog offers clear guides and tips to simplify communication for families. Read More!