That’s actually how it’s supposed to work. The number you’re issued is set up to receive calls at the lowest possible rate from the facility. Different phone rates apply depending on the area being called, so using that assigned number helps reduce the cost. Your personal phone number is set as the “routed to” destination behind the scenes, meaning calls go through the lower-cost number first and then forward to your phone. It may look a little
Read morePostcards sent through InmateAid are printed and mailed via USPS, just like standard mail. Once they arrive at the facility, they go through the mailroom for inspection and are then delivered to the inmate during regular mail distribution. There isn’t a notification or tracking system once the mail reaches the facility, so you won’t receive confirmation of delivery. The best way to know they received it is if they mention it in a call or write back to
Read moreYes, that can happen. In many cases, someone on parole may still appear in the system because parole is considered an extension of their original sentence, so they are still technically under the state’s custody. Once they fully complete parole and are no longer under supervision, their information is typically removed from the active custody database. If you’re unsure about their current status, I can help you check based on the state or facility.
Read moreYes, but with some limitations. In most cases, the tablet itself is purchased by the inmate, so they can keep it after release. However, the content and services on the tablet, like messaging, email, and other features, are tied to the facility’s system. Once they’re released, those services no longer function the same way, and previously stored content, including messages, typically does not remain accessible on the device. So they may keep the tablet, but it won’t operate
Read moreIf your inmate is housed in Robstown and you are calling from a San Antonio number, you are currently paying $0.21 per minute because the call is being treated as a long distance connection. By setting up a local Robstown number, that same call drops to $0.06 per minute — a savings of $0.15 per minute. On a 15-minute call that's a saving of $2.25 per call. If you talk daily that adds up to over $60 a month
Read moreAt the Segovia Unit, inmates are permitted one remote video visit per month at no cost. These visits must be scheduled in advance through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Online Visitation Portal. Key Video Call Rules Monthly Limit: Inmates are restricted to one 60-minute video visit per month. Cost: Tablet-based video visits at Segovia are free of charge. While some other Texas units use the paid Securus platform ($10.00 per visit), Segovia typically utilizes the free TDCJ portal system. Scheduling: Visits must
Read moreCreating a personal page on InmateAid is straightforward and you do not need to complete the entire setup before getting started. Begin by selecting a service or product you are interested in — such as sending a letter, a postcard, or setting up discount calls. The system will then prompt you to enter your personal information and create your account. Once your account is set up you will be asked to connect your inmate. You can either search
Read moreRestriction 31 refers to a disciplinary suspension of an inmate's visitation privileges under Florida Administrative Code Rule 33-601.731. It is one of the more serious restrictions a Florida DOC inmate can receive and understanding what it means will help you navigate the situation. What causes Restriction 31 This restriction is typically triggered by serious infractions including attempting to pass contraband such as drugs, money, or weapons into the facility, unauthorized use of a cell phone, or physical violence.
Read moreInmateAid is a public Q&A forum where former inmates answer general questions about the prison system. It is not a direct messaging service — your loved one cannot see or receive anything submitted here. To actually get a message to someone who is incarcerated, InmateAid offers several services that deliver directly to them at their facility: Letters and photos, postcards, and greeting cards can all be sent from your phone or computer and delivered as real physical mail
Read moreOnce money has been added to your inmate's phone account, the facility notifies them through their internal communication system. How your inmate receives that notification depends on the facility. At most prisons and jails, inmates are alerted through the housing unit phones — they will see the updated balance when they next attempt to make a call. Some facilities also have internal computer terminals or kiosks on the housing unit where inmates can check their account balance directly.
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