We’ve put together answers to the most common questions about A Way Out Pen Pals. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help.
Yes. To use any features on A Way Out Pen Pals, you’ll need to create a free visitor account. This account is for you, not for an incarcerated individual.
Yes. Visitor accounts are always free. There is no cost to create or maintain your personal account.
The account is always for the visitor. Incarcerated individuals do not create accounts on the site.
Yes. All actions—managing profile listings, renewals, updates, upgrades, and account settings—are handled inside your single visitor account.
No. We do not share your personal information with incarcerated individuals.
This includes:
· Any account details
You control if, when, and how you choose to share personal information through correspondence.
No. Questionnaire responses and matching data are used internally only to help guide compatibility. They are never shared.
No. We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties.
Instructions for correspondence—including mailing information and any available guidelines—are listed directly on each profile.
Yes. All correspondence must follow the specific rules and regulations of the facility where the individual is housed. These rules vary by location.
Communication methods depend on what is listed on the individual’s profile. Some profiles provide mailing instructions only.
Anyone with a visitor account can publish or manage a profile listing on behalf of an incarcerated individual.
What does managing a profile include? Managing a profile listing allows you to:
Yes, technically a visitor account holder can submit updates to any profile, but there are safeguards in place.
Each update:
If a change is unauthorized, it can be reversed.
No. We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties.
If an update is determined to be unauthorized:
This situation is extremely rare, as updates require payment and verification.
Visitor accounts are free. Fees apply only to publishing and maintaining profile listings.
Standard listings are active for one year.
At the time of renewal, you may update the profile at no additional charge.
This includes:
Yes. Optional upgrades and enhancements are available and can be applied through your visitor account.
Yes. Our brochure is available as a free download and can be printed or shared.
Yes. We offer a free, printable pen pal application (Legal size) that can be mailed to an incarcerated individual.
Our focus on compatibility, clarity, and respect. We offer optional matching tools, transparent pricing, and a guided experience rather than leaving users to search blindly.
No. We are an independent platform and are not affiliated with correctional institutions.
You can reach us through the Contact Us page. We’re happy to assist with any questions or concerns.
Reach out to our support team for more information or assistance. We’re here to help you every step of the way as you build meaningful connections with inmates through A Way Out Pen Pals.
