Fayette County Jail

To search for an inmate in the Fayette County Jail, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 618-283-2141 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up the  Fayette County Criminal Court or any court in Illinois, as well as criminal court case information regarding an offender.

Fayette County Jail Inmate Search

The Fayette County Jail maintains an average of 76 offenders in custody on any given day. The Fayette County Jail has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Fayette County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 1,520 offenders.

What is the process to pay bail for someone detained in Fayette County?

After an individual is apprehended and taken to Fayette County Jail in Vandalia for booking, their release options vary based on the situation:

1. They might be released without bail, on the condition they appear in court on a scheduled date.
2. They may be detained until their court appearance.
3. They may be eligible for release after posting a bail or bond.  Call 618-283-2141 for the exact bail amount.

There are different ways to settle an individual's bail or bond.

• To post a cash bond, pay the full amount at the jail bonding window or the clerk's office by cash, cashier's check or money order; many facilities also accept cards at a lobby kiosk or through an online bond vendor for a fee, and you will need the inmate's full name and booking number (jail phone: 618-283-2141).
• A licensed bail bondsman in Fayette County can assist with payment.
• Real property such as land or a house is accepted as collateral by many courts, provided the owner proves clear title and equity worth at least the bond, frequently twice the bond, with a deed and a current tax or appraisal value; the court that set bail signs off on it.

For more information on the bail process in Fayette County, Illinois, visit the Fayette County Jail Bail Information Page.

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail? What is the Schedule?

Fayette County Jail Inmate on-site Video Visitation

221 South 7th Street
Vandalia, IL 62471
618-283-2141

• First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  
• This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
• Once you do this, you can choose Fayette County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.
• Inmates are each allowed four visits per week. Each visit is 15 minutes.
• All visits are by video.

ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE

Fayette County Jail Inmate Remote Video Visitation

221 South 7th Street
Vandalia, IL 62471
618-283-2141

• First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  
• This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
• Once you do this, you can choose Fayette County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.

REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

The Fayette County Jail uses Homewav for all Video Visitation services.

The information below provides complete instructions regarding:

Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Fayette County Jail

Fayette County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation. 

Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you. 
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.

Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.

How Much does Homewav Cost?

Fayette County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.  

There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.

In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.

How does HomeWAV video visitation work?

1.  Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call

How Do I add Funds to my account?

1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update” 
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)

Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer. 

Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.

To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call. 

You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website. 

The app should be solely used for video visitation.

What are the minimum PC requirements?

1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone

Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?

Yes, Fayette County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby. 

How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?

1.    Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2.    The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on. 
3.    Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4.    When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.

Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?

If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email support@homewav.com and include the following information:
1.    Homewav account holder’s name.
2.    The number of minutes to be transferred.
3.    Facility Name.
4.    From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.

How do I get a refund on leftover funds?

Email HomeWAV at refunds@homewav.com with your refund request. 
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee.  *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.

How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?

HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:

Monday – Friday 
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST

Saturday – Sunday 
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST

HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.

HomeWAV Video Tutorials

HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail?

The information below provides complete instructions regarding Homewav Video Visitation for Fayette County Jail:

Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Fayette County Jail

Fayette County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation. 

Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you. 
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.

Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.

How Much does Homewav Cost?

Fayette County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.  

There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.

In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.

How does HomeWAV video visitation work?

1.  Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call

How Do I add Funds to my account?

1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update” 
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)

Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer. 

Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.

To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call. 

You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website. 

The app should be solely used for video visitation.

What are the minimum PC requirements?

1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone

Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?

Yes, Fayette County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby. 

How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?

1.    Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2.    The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on. 
3.    Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4.    When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.

Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?

If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email support@homewav.com and include the following information:
1.    Homewav account holder’s name.
2.    The number of minutes to be transferred.
3.    Facility Name.
4.    From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.

How do I get a refund on leftover funds?

Email HomeWAV at refunds@homewav.com with your refund request. 
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee.  *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.

How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?

HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:

Monday – Friday 
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST

Saturday – Sunday 
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST

HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.

HomeWAV Video Tutorials

HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail?

There are FOUR options for putting money on an inmate's books:

Option 1 - Dropping Money at the Jail
Bring money to the jail in person. 
Either the jail personnel will process the Inmate Account payment or you will use a Jail ATM self-serve kiosk in the lobbies that accepts cash, debit or credit cards.

Option 2 - Deposit Inmate Money Online
Fayette County Jail uses Jail ATM to process all online deposits to an inmate's account. The company charges you a small fee for doing so, but the fee probably isn't as much as gas and parking would cost to take it to the jail in person.

Option 3 - Mail the Inmate Deposit to the Jail
Mailing a deposit takes more time to process than the other methods but can be done if you live too far away to bring it in person and you don't have a debit/credit card for online deposits. Never send cash. Always send a Money Order from the US Post Office, a reputable bank or Western Union. Call the Fayette County Jail first as they may want you to do this online or at the jail kiosk instead.
Make the Money Order out to the payee the jail names (check with the jail first) and put their Inmate ID# in memo section of the Money Order. Never mail cash or a personal check.
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Fayette County Jail - IL
221 South 7th Street
Vandalia, IL 62471

Option 4 - Make an Inmate Deposit with Jail ATM over the Phone by calling 877-810-0914
To do this you will need the inmate's offender # (inmate ID #) and full legal name.

How to Deposit Money Online for an Inmate in Fayette County

To deposit money online for an inmate in Fayette County Jail follow these steps:

• 
• Register to open an account, or Sign In to JailATM, the deposit service used for inmates at Fayette County.
• After registering and signing in, select 'Send Money Now'.
• Choose Illinois, then choose Fayette County Jail
• Type in your inmate's last name or their Inmate ID.
• Select your inmate.
• Input an amount to deposit to your inmate in Fayette County Jail, and then input your payment method. 
• NOTE: JailATM's support page lists a deposit limit of $300 a week per inmate and says the limit can be different at each facility.
• If you need to phone JailATM customer support, call 877-810-0914.

For all information, tips and procedures for sending money to an inmate in Fayette County Jail, or depositing money at the jail, over the phone or by mail, check out our Send Money Page for Fayette County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail?

How Do Inmates in Fayette County Jail Make Phone Calls?

To receive phone calls from inmates in Fayette County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:

• Fayette County Jail uses the services of HOMEWAV.
• 
• Register with them online or call them at 844-394-6639. 
• Agents are available from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and speak both English & Spanish.
• Services for Fayette County inmates and their families and friends include prepaid HomeWAV accounts. Ask HomeWAV which services this jail offers.

For all the information regarding phone calls with Fayette County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, video, messaging, time limits and more, visit our Inmate Phone Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail, and what can I send them?

TextBehind enables you to communicate with your incarcerated loved ones located inside the United States from anywhere in the world using text letters, kids' drawings, and custom greeting cards. Unlimited inmate reply letters are processed for electronic delivery to your smartphone and email at no extra charge.
The cost to send an electronic letter is approximately $1.00.

Here’s how it works for Fayette County Jail:
1.    All offender mail (paper and electronic) is addressed and delivered to TextBehind. Electronic mail is sent through the apps (iphone, Google Play). Paper mail is sent to the address below:
Inmate Name and Inmate Number
Fayette County Jail Illinois (note: please do not abbreviate the name)
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131
2.    If it was sent via TextBehind's app (iphone, Google Play), TextBehind can process it within one business day.
3.    An additional step is involved in processing mail that is sent using the U.S. Postal Service. TextBehind will  use a scanner to make digital files of the contents of the mailing—including cards, photos or artwork.
4.    All digital files are then forwarded to the offender’s assigned prison.
5.    Fayette County Jail mailroom prints approved pages and delivers them to the inmate.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• TextBehind does not deliver any mail to the inmate directly, nor do they guarantee delivery of your letters to the inmates by the courier, jail or prison staff. Once they process your mail and ship them out on your behalf, they are out of the loop entirely. However, at times they may offer to resend your letters under certain strict conditions as a courtesy. 
• Inmates do not receive any invites when you add them, and neither do they need to accept the use of TextBehind service. Once you add the inmate, you can create letters for them. 

Here’s what happens when TextBehind receives a letter from an inmate:

• Upon receiving, TextBehind staff open their letters, scan, and upload high-quality images to your TextBehind account as a complimentary service. You are not required to have any money or credits balance in your TextBehind account to receive inmate letters.
• Next, you will receive a text and email alert to notify you of any new incoming reply letters. At that time, you can log into the TextBehind website or mobile app and view letters in your CONTACTS >> Click on Conversation Icon. 

YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS...

• Inmates do require a stamp to send out their letters to TextBehind using Postal Service.
• The cash or credit balance from your TextBehind account will not be shared with inmates as a substitute for the stamps. 
• All letters printed and shipped by TextBehind nationwide to virtually any jail or prison facility are delivered to the jails/prisons by couriers such as the USPS or FedEx as their standard process.
• After the shipments, TextBehind has no control over the process.
• The delivery of your letters depends on couriers and prison staff taking necessary action on time.

IMPORTANT TextBehind LINKS:
Register / Log in with TextBehind
Contact TextBehind with Questions
Add an Inmate to your list of Contacts

** Address to Mail letters using TextBehind **
Inmate Name and Inmate Number
Fayette County Jail Illinois (note: please do not abbreviate the name)
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131

Why is TextBehind used by Lockups?
Due to the problem of letters and postcards containing, or soaked in contraband (drugs), TextBehind electronic and physical letters is replacing the former policy of allowing mail to be sent directly from inmate’s friends and family members, and vice versa.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail, and what can I purchase?

JailATM – Send Money or Send Commissary Gift Packs to Fayette County Jail

Search for JailATM services for Fayette County Jail.

Make an inmate deposit with JailATM for Fayette County Jail. 

Note: While JailATM offers the following inmate services, Fayette County Jail may not allow all of them. Check on the JailATM website to confirm. Services available through JailATM are subject to change with no notice.

Send Gift Packs

Fayette County Jail has an agreement with JailATM, which ships predetermined Gift Packs of candy, snacks and hygiene products to the inmate. Check the JailATM website to see if they allow Gift Packs.

These can be ordered by you online and are delivered directly to the inmate.

How to Send a Carepack Commissary Package Directly to an Inmate in Fayette County

To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Fayette County Jail follow these steps:

• 
• Go to JailATM, choose Illinois, then choose Fayette County Jail
• Type in your inmate's last name or their Inmate ID.
• Select your inmate, and then you will be prompted to Register with them to open an account.
• Select the products you want shipped to them at Fayette County Jail, and then input your payment method. 
• NOTE: There may be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Fayette County at any one time.
• If you need to phone customer support, call 877-810-0914

For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages or sending money to an inmate in Fayette County Jail check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Fayette County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Fayette County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?

Friends and Family can leave Video Messages for Inmates using HomeWAV Video services.

The cost is $1.00 per message. In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. 
How does HomeWAV video messaging (email) work?

1. Sign Up.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Send your video message.

How to Visit or Email an Inmate in Fayette County Illinois or visiting an inmate at the jail

To visit or email an inmate in Fayette County follow these steps:

• In addition to visiting inmates at the jail, Fayette County Jail uses a video visitation service called HomeWav.
  
• Register and Sign Up Here.
• Complete all steps of the registration process to get full access to Fayette County Jail inmate communication services.
• Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
• Then you just wait for your Fayette County inmate to communicate.
  How do you add Funds to your account?
• Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds".
• Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
• Click “Update”.
• Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card).

Who do you contact if you are having any problems arranging the remote video visit, phoning or emailing of an inmate in Fayette County?
Call HomeWav support at 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
Monday – Friday 
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday 
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST

NOTE: All communications between you and your inmate at Fayette County Jail will be recorded and stored. Do not discuss your inmate's case or other sensitive information as it can be used against them (or you) in court.

For full instructions on all the benefits of using Homewav to visit a Fayette County inmate, visiting an inmate at the jail itself, email and texting an inmate, rates, policies, rules, dress codes, bringing children, attorney and clergy visits and more, go to our official Visit Inmate Page. 

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

Do Inmates in the Fayette County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Fayette County Jail now offers Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets to their inmates.

 
Homewav is the same company that handles the inmate phone system, video visitations, email and texting and digital letters.

The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for the following activities:

• Phone Calls - Inmates may make calls directly from their tablet allowing for more privacy. The rates are the same as the phones in the unit, and the calls are still recorded and monitored.
• eMessaging - Communicate via a text based message or picture. Fee based system.
• Video Messages and Video Calls - Send and receive video messages and have video visits and calls with inmate.
• Job Search - Inmates have the ability to see what jobs are available when they are released.
• Education - Free educational platform and course catalog that provides thousands of educational resources, including GED courses.
• Self Help -Inmates have daily access to mental health and addiction recovery programming.
• Music - Top-40, Hip-Hop, Country, Rock, Gospel, and more.
• Law Library -  Legal research with up-to-date case information.
• eBooks - Thousands of available titles.
• Religion - Religious resources for spiritual guidance.
• Games - Inmates can play their favorite games. Available through monthly subscriptions
• Facility Services - Digital access to submitted forms, requests, facility documents, and notifications from staff.

Here's how it works:

• Register here. 
• You get charged a full month even if it's only used for a partial month.
• No activation or early termination fees.
• Your inmate will recieve their tablet in 3-5 business days after you pay.

Questions:

• By phone - 314-764-2872
• By email - support@homewav.com

Fayette County Jail now offers Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets to their inmates.

 
Homewav is the same company that handles the inmate phone system, video visitations, email and texting and digital letters.

The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for phone, visits, messages, education, self-help and entertainment.

• Register here. 

Questions:

• By phone - 314-764-2872
• By email - support@homewav.com

To learn more about Homewav tablets, the dozens of features, cost and how to get one delivered to your inmate, check out our Inmate Tablet page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Fayette County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 618-283-2141 for further assistance.

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Fayette County?