This comes down to how the two systems interact, and it is worth understanding before assuming something went wrong.
InmateAid does not replace the facility's phone carrier or eliminate their charges. What InmateAid does is analyze the carrier's own rate data to determine whether a different forwarding number can get calls to you at a lower published rate than what your current number generates. If your number is already being billed at the lowest tariff the carrier offers for your location, there is no cheaper number InmateAid can provide and the savings opportunity does not exist in your case.
When that happens, you end up in a situation where you paid for InmateAid but are still facing the carrier's standard charges, which is understandably frustrating. The important thing to know is that InmateAid is transparent about this limitation and offers an honest estimate before you commit. If you email aid@inmateaid.com with your number and the facility details, they will run the analysis and tell you upfront whether meaningful savings are possible in your specific situation before any money changes hands.
If you have already paid and the service is not producing savings because your number is already at the lowest available rate, reach out to aid@inmateaid.com directly. They can review your account, confirm what is happening, and work toward a resolution that is fair given the circumstances.
The estimate process exists specifically to avoid surprises like the one you experienced. Use it before purchasing if you decide to try the service again.