Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about reviews, privacy, facilities and advertising. Can't find what you need? Ask us on the Contact page.
What is Inmate Reviews?
A free website where people who have been incarcerated, and their families, share first-hand experiences with jails, prisons, detention centers and the agencies around them. Anyone can read the reviews before a visit, a transfer or a call.
Is it free?
Yes. Reading and writing reviews is free, and always will be. The site is supported by sponsored listings from local businesses.
Do I need an account to write a review?
No. Find the facility, write what happened, and submit. You can add a display name if you want one, or leave it blank to post anonymously.
Is my review anonymous?
Yes, unless you choose a display name. We never show your real name. To stay anonymous, leave out details in the text that could identify you, like booking numbers or exact dates.
Who can write a review?
Anyone 18 or older, or younger with a parent or guardian's permission, who has first-hand experience with the facility: as someone who was held there, or as an immediate family member who supported them. See our Content Policy.
Why didn't my review appear right away?
Every review is checked automatically when it's submitted. Most appear right away. A review the check isn't sure about waits for a person to look at it, and one that breaks the Content Policy, for example by sharing someone's private information, is asked to be edited.
Can a facility have a review taken down?
Not because it's negative. We remove reviews only when they break the Content Policy, and businesses that advertise with us can't remove, hide or change reviews. Facilities are welcome to post a respectful public reply.
How do I report a review or reply?
Send us the link and a short reason through the Contact page. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
What kinds of places are listed?
City and county jails, state and federal prisons, youth detention centers, ICE detention facilities, and state and federal prosecutors' offices across all 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Browse them on Find a Facility.
A facility is missing or its details are wrong. What do I do?
Use "Report incorrect info" on the facility's page, or tell us through the Contact page and we'll fix it.
Can I save facilities to come back to?
Yes. Tap Save on any facility page. Saved and recently viewed facilities show up when you tap the search box, and on your Saved Facilities page. They're kept on your device only, so no account is needed.
What are Preferred Partners?
Sponsored listings from local attorneys, bail bond agents, sober and transitional housing, rehab programs and employers. Businesses pay to be listed, which helps keep Inmate Reviews free. Compare a few before you choose. Find them on Find Local Help.
What is Jobs for Inmates?
A job board for people with records. Employers can post openings on Add a Job; each post is reviewed before it goes live. Browse openings on Jobs for Inmates.
How can my business become a Preferred Partner?
Apply on the Advertise page. A listing is $375 a year ($365 plus a $10 processing fee), paid by PayPal, card, Venmo or Cash App. Every listing renews on March 1. See the advertising terms in our Terms of Service.
Is the site available in Spanish?
Yes. Switch between English and Español at the top of any page.
How do you use my information?
We collect as little as we can and never sell personal information. Read the details in our Privacy Policy.
How do I contact you?
Use the Contact page. We read every message.