Agencies
Services
Electronic Messaging Service
Note: GTL and IDOC have negotiated a new rate structure. Effective November 1, 2021, the Department will forego any commissions for GTL services.
Click here to see the pricing changes.
Friends and family members can now communicate with inmates using an electronic messaging system. The messages can be created and sent through Global Tel* Link’s (GTL) ConnectNetwork.com. They’ll be printed and delivered to the inmates, just like regular mail. All messages will be screened and monitored in accordance with Illinois Department of Corrections mail policies.
- Global Tel* Link is the only provider of this service to Illinois Department of Corrections inmates.
- How much does it cost for an inmate to receive an electronic message?
- Can inmates send electronic messages?
- How long will it take for the inmate to receive the message once it has been sent?
- How do I know if I can send an inmate a message?
- Do I need to be on an approved list?
Visit http://www.gtl.net/illinois-doc-inmate-services/ to register or get more information.
Please refer to the GTL website http://www.gtl.net/illinois-doc-inmate-services/ for the costs related to this service.
Inmates cannot send messages at this time; however, the department will be offering two-way messaging in the near future. Once two-way messaging is in place, an offender will only be able to send an electronic message to people who have previously sent him/her an electronic message. A civilian will be able to block electronic messages from inmates at any time.
Electronic messages to inmates are subject to review in the same way as mail received through the United States Post Office. After the review is complete, electronic messages will be printed and delivered through the IDOC’s regular mail delivery process.
To be eligible for the service, an offender must be in A grade.
Generally no, however; please review the IDOC Administrative Code on Processing Mail Administrative Rule 525 Subpart 120 Processing Mail.