Whether inmates can leave voicemails depends on the policies of the correctional facility and the phone service provider used by the facility.
Here is an overview of how voicemail services for inmates typically work and the factors that influence their availability…
Voicemail Services for Inmates
- Availability by Facility and Provider – Not all correctional facilities offer voicemail services. Availability depends on the contracts between the facility and its phone service provider. Some providers that offer voicemail services include GTL, Securus Technologies, ICSolutions, and Telmate.
- Setting Up Voicemail Services – If a facility allows voicemail, it often requires the recipient to set up an account or voicemail box with the phone service provider. The inmate can then leave voicemails that the recipient can retrieve at their convenience.
- How Inmates Leave Voicemails – Inmates follow a specific procedure to leave a voicemail, typically by calling a designated number and entering a PIN or other identifier. It may prompt to leave a message for the recipient, which will be stored in the voicemail system.
- Retrieving Voicemails – Recipients are usually notified by the service provider when a new voicemail is left. Voicemails can be retrieved by calling into the voicemail system or through an online portal, depending on the provider’s capabilities.
Example Providers and Voicemail Policies
- Global Tel Link (GTL) – Offers voicemail services in some facilities. Inmates can leave voicemails if the facility has enabled this feature. Recipients can access their voicemails via the GTL ConnectNetwork platform.
- Securus Technologies – Provides a service called Secure Instant Mail, which can include voicemail options in some facilities. Recipients can retrieve messages through the Securus online portal or by phone.
- ICSolutions – May offer voicemail services in facilities that have opted for this feature. Voicemails can be accessed through their automated phone system or online account.
- Telmate – Through its GettingOut platform, allows for voicemail services where supported by the facility. Voicemails can be retrieved via the GettingOut website or mobile app.
Steps to Determine Availability and Use Voicemail Services
- Check Facility Policies – Review the specific correctional facility’s communication policies to see if voicemail services are offered. Facilities usually provide this information on their official website or through an inmate handbook.
- Set Up an Account – If voicemail services are available, set up an account with the phone service provider used by the facility. Follow the provider’s instructions to configure voicemail settings and ensure you can receive notifications.
- Deposit Funds – Voicemail services typically require prepaid funds, similar to regular phone calls. Ensure there are sufficient funds in the account to cover the cost of leaving and retrieving voicemails.
- Instruct the Inmate – Provide the inmate with the necessary instructions and contact numbers to leave a voicemail. Make sure the inmate knows any specific procedures required by the facility and service provider.
Inmates can leave voicemails if the correctional facility and its phone service provider offer this feature. The process involves setting up an account with the service provider, depositing funds, and following the specific procedures for leaving and retrieving voicemails. Check the facility’s policies and the service provider’s capabilities to determine if this option is available and how to use it effectively.
