How Do You Set Up a Webcam Visit With an Inmate?

Video visitation availability depends entirely on the facility. Not every jail or prison offers webcam visits, and those that do use different platforms and have different procedures for setting them up.

The first step is confirming whether your family member's facility offers video visitation at all. Call the facility directly and ask whether they have a video visitation program and which platform they use. Common providers include JPay, Securus, GTL, and Telmate, each of which has its own app or website for scheduling and conducting visits.

Once you know the platform, here is the general process:

Create an account on the provider's website or app. You will need a valid email address and in most cases a government-issued ID to verify your identity. Some platforms require a photo of your ID during registration.

Add your family member to your contact list using their inmate ID number and facility information.

Schedule a visit through the platform. Most systems require visits to be booked in advance rather than initiated on demand. Available time slots are set by the facility and fill up quickly, so scheduling ahead is important.

At the time of the visit, log into the platform from a device with a working camera and microphone. A smartphone, tablet, or laptop all work for most platforms.

Some facilities offer in-facility video visits where the inmate uses a kiosk inside the prison, while others allow visits directly to a personal device. Confirm which type your family member's facility uses when you call.

If you run into any issues getting set up, InmateAid can help point you in the right direction once you know the facility and the platform involved.