King County WA Jail Details & Overview
When friends and loved ones are incarcerated, you may need to learn important information to help you navigate the system. Conducting a search online does not always produce accurate results, which is why we are here to help.
We have worked to gather the latest information on the rules and regulations of the King County Jail. This information will assist you in carrying out various tasks related to inmates being housed in the jail.
About King County Jail in Seattle, WA
The King County Jail is located in Seattle, Washington, and became operational in 1986. Approximately 350 correctional staff members are providing services to inmates in the facility. The jail has an average daily inmate population of around 1,350.
Contact Information for King County Jail
The phone number for the King County Jail is (206) 296-1234, and the physical address of the facility is:
500 5th Ave
Seattle, WA 98104
How to Look Up an Inmate in the King County Jail
If you need to find information, you can conduct a King County Jail inmate search online on the website run by the Sheriff's Office. This website also contains a public list of the inmates booked within the last 24 hours. You can also view jail mugshots in King County.
If you have difficulties finding or accessing the information on the website, call (206) 296-1234 for further information.
How to Post Bail for an Inmate
If you would like to post bail for an inmate, the fastest and easiest way is to bring cash. Cash is accepted 24/7. King County Jail also accepts the following.
- Cashier’s checks
- Money orders
Both of the above methods require pre-verification during regular banking hours. If the bank or financial institution is closed, delays may occur with the release of the inmate.
To pay bail for an inmate, you will need to visit the window at the King County Correctional Facility on 500 5th Ave. If you pay by check or money order, make them payable to the following:
King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention
Your Name
The Inmate’s Name and B/A Number (You may find this number by conducting an inmate search above.)
How to Send Money to an Inmate in King County Jail
If you want to deposit money into an inmate's account, you have a few options available. The following offer convenient ways for you to add funds quickly.
Telephone
You may call toll-free at 866-345-1884 to deposit funds using credit or debit cards. This telephone line is automated and available 24/7.
Walk-In Retailers
Many retailers participate in inmate account deposit payments. Retailers like 7-Eleven, Dollar General, and Walgreens accept payments. For a full list of participating retailers, visit cashpaytoday.com.
Phone App
If you prefer, you can download the Access Corrections phone app from Google Play or the App Store. This is a free mobile app that allows you to send money on the go.
Online
You may also deposit money into an inmate’s account online by visiting https://www.accesscorrections.com/#/.
Kiosks
You can also deposit money into an inmate’s account via the kiosks in the jail lobby.
How to Send an Email to an Inmate
The King County Jail allows inmates to receive emails through Access Secure. You will need to register to deposit money into a prepaid account by visiting https://www.accesscorrections.com/#/.
Each incoming email is routed through the approval center and checked for contraband and other concerns. Once approved, the email is forwarded to the inmate.
It is important to note there are fees associated with sending emails to inmates. The inmate will not be allowed to send you an email back. Inmates will only be able to respond by writing a letter.
How to Send Mail to an Inmate in King County Jail
It is important to learn about the rules for mailing letters to inmates. You can send a letter to the following address:
Inmate’s Full Name and B/A Number
500 Fifth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
There are specific rules for sending inmates letters. Failure to follow these rules could result in the letter being returned to you, destroyed, or used as evidence.
- Letters must be written on plain white paper with black or blue ink only.
- Mail may only come through the United States Postal Service. Mail from all other couriers will be returned.
- All mail is opened and searched for prohibited content or contraband.
- Photographs are allowed as long as they meet the facility rules.
- Newspapers, magazines, and soft-bound books are acceptable but must be mailed directly from the bookstore or publisher.
- No colored envelopes or greeting cards are accepted.
Do NOT use or send the following when writing inmates:
- No address labels, post-it notes, or stickers
- No cash or personal checks
- No clothing
- No blank cards, paper, or postcards
- No colored paper or envelopes
- No gambling items
- No bubble wrap or cardboard
- No glued items, glitter, gel pens, markers, crayons, paints, metallic pens, or confetti
- No handmade paper
- No lipstick, cologne, makeup, or scents
- No obscene language or photographs
- No playing cards
- No sexual materials
- No laminated items, manila envelopes, Tyvek envelopes, or musical greeting cards
- No pages torn from books or magazines
- No Polaroid photographs
- No racist or other inflammatory materials
- No string or ribbon
- No unknown materials, metal, or foil-lined envelopes
- No unsigned or altered money orders
- No prohibited publications
How to Visit an Inmate at King County Jail
If you would like to visit an inmate at the jail, you must familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations first, so you do not get denied.
At the time of this writing, in-person and kiosk visitations have been suspended due to the pandemic. The jail is offering video visitations. To schedule a free video visitation, you will need to register for an account with Securus Technologies. If you would like further information, you may call 1-877-578-3658.
Just as with in-person visits, all video visits are subjected to being monitored and recorded.
Programs and Services Available to King County Jail Inmates
The King County Jail offers a range of programs and services to assist inmates during their sentences and to prepare them for release. Inmates are offered the following, depending on their security level.
- Adult Basic Education/GED and Independent Study
- Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous
- Art Therapy Programs
- Creative Writing Skills for Women
- Celebrate Recovery (Christ-centered program)
- Hepatitis C Education
- English as a Second Language programs
- High School Completion
- High School 21+
- Incarcerated Veterans Re-Entry Services
- Job Training Programs
- Parents for Parents Program-Sponsored by King County Superior Court
- Release Planning
- Read to Me Program
- Shanti (Empathic Emotional Support Program)
- Tutoring Programs
- Yoga Behind Bars
- Multiple Faith-Based Groups
Additional Resources