Prison phone calls are one of the most important lifelines between an incarcerated person and their family, and one of the most expensive. The prison phone industry has historically operated as a near-monopoly charging rates that few other consumer services would get away with. This section covers how the prison phone system works, why rates are so high and what has changed in recent years, how debit calling accounts function, how to get a number approved on an inmate's call list, how InmateAid's local number service reduces call costs by up to 70 percent, and what international callers need to know about reaching a US facility from another country. The questions answered here come from families who are paying too much for calls and from inmates trying to navigate phone access from inside. Understanding how the system works is the first step toward getting the most contact for the least cost. See also our sections on Money Transfer and Commissary.
Related InmateAid Services
Subject: Inmate phone calls
To obtain a new phone number from InmateAid, follow these steps:
Sign Up for InmateAid's Discount Phone Service:
Visit the InmateAid Discount Calls page.
Select the facility where your loved one is incarcerated.
Enter your current phone number, which will be linked to the new number.
Complete the payment process to finalize your subscription.
Receive Your New Number:
After payment, InmateAid will email you and text you the new phone number, typically within moments of receiving your receipt.
Inform Your Inmate:
It's crucial to notify your incarcerated loved one...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
To add funds to an inmate's phone account at Verner Supermax, you can use the ConnectNetwork service provided by GTL. Here's how:
Create a ConnectNetwork Account:
Visit ConnectNetwork's website.
Click on "Create Account" and provide the necessary personal information.
During setup, select Verner Supermax as the facility and add the inmate by their ID number.
Choose a Deposit Method:
AdvancePay®: This prepaid collect calling service allows the inmate to call your specific phone number using deposited funds. You control expenses and call acceptance.
PIN Debit Account: Funds...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
Yes, you should have a Securus account set up before paying for discounted phone services through InmateAid. Here's why this is important and how the process works:
Why You Need a Securus Account First:
Primary Phone Service Provider: Securus is the official phone service provider for many correctional facilities. Having a Securus account allows your inmate to connect with you through their system, which is mandatory for making calls.
Connecting InmateAid Services: InmateAid offers discounted phone services by providing a phone number that...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
There could be several reasons why an inmate hasn't called in over a week. Here are some of the most common possibilities:
1. Facility Lockdown or Restriction:
Lockdown: The facility may be under lockdown due to a security incident, investigation, or other emergency. During a lockdown, inmates are often restricted from making phone calls.
Disciplinary Actions: If the inmate has violated facility rules or been involved in an incident, they might be placed on disciplinary restrictions, which can include loss of phone privileges.
2....
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
If your daughter has just arrived at a correctional facility in Plains, Texas, and you've already deposited funds for her to make a call, but you haven’t heard from her yet, there are a few steps you can take to ensure she knows to call you:
1. Send a Written Letter or Postcard:
Quickest Direct Method: Write a letter or postcard to your daughter at the facility, clearly stating that you’ve deposited funds for her to call you. Include your phone number...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
This service works with SmartInmate by using a rate comparison algorithm that analyzes various phone number options to find the best per-minute rate for the customer. The SmartInmate Rate Calculator helps identify numbers that can lower call costs significantly. While switching to a different number usually results in reduced rates, there are instances where no savings are available. In such cases, a refund is provided to ensure customer satisfaction.
Subject: Inmate phone calls
The time it takes for a new inmate to gain access to the phone at the Emanuel Probation Detention Center (PDC) in Georgia can vary based on several factors, including the facility's intake procedures, the inmate's classification, and the facility's rules. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
1. Initial Intake and Orientation Period:
Processing Time: When inmates first arrive at Emanuel PDC, they go through an intake and orientation process, which involves assessments, medical evaluations, and facility orientation. This process...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
When you deposit money into an inmate's account to enable them to make phone calls, the inmate will typically be informed in one of the following ways:
1. Notification via Inmate Account System:
Account Balance Updates: In most correctional facilities, inmates have access to kiosks or tablets where they can check their commissary or phone account balance. When you deposit funds, the balance will reflect the updated amount, and your loved one will be able to see that there is money available...
Read moreSubject: Inmate phone calls
usually a postcard letting them know your number and the times for them to call you
Subject: Inmate phone calls
It can be difficult when distance prevents regular contact with a loved one who is incarcerated. Unfortunately, most facilities do not allow inmates to make free calls, and direct calls from loved ones to inmates are typically not permitted. However, you can try contacting the facility’s case manager or counselor and explain your situation. They may be able to relay a message to your husband or confirm that he is okay. Additionally, you can write him a letter, which is...
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