Accepting collect calls from jail for free on your cell phone can be challenging because most services require payment for call handling and connecting.
There are a few strategies and options that might help you minimize or potentially eliminate costs…
Strategies to Minimize or Eliminate Costs
- Third-Party Calling Services – Some services may offer lower rates or even free initial periods for calls. These include VoIP services that might offer cheaper call rates compared to traditional collect call rates.
- Google Voice or Similar Services – Setting up a Google Voice number might provide more flexibility and lower rates, but it may still not be entirely free. You can link your Google Voice number to your cell phone.
- Inmate Phone Plans – Some phone service providers that work with correctional facilities offer subscription plans where you pay a monthly fee for a set amount of call time. This can be more economical than paying per minute, though it’s not entirely free.
- Family and Friends Discount Programs – Check if the service provider offers any discount programs for frequent calls. Some companies might offer reduced rates if you set up a prepaid account.
- Local Number Services – Some third-party services provide a local number for the inmate to call, which forwards to your cell phone. Local calls are often cheaper than long-distance or collect calls.
- Free Call Allowances – Some facilities offer a limited number of free calls per week or month, especially for those unable to afford regular calls. Check with the facility to see if this is available.
Steps to Implement These Strategies
- Set Up a Google Voice Account – Create a Google Voice account and get a number. Link this Google Voice number to your cell phone. Provide this number to the inmate for calls. While calls to your Google Voice number might be cheaper, note that some correctional facility phone systems may not work with Google Voice.
- Explore VoIP Services – Look into VoIP services that may offer lower rates. Services like Skype, TextNow, or others may offer cheaper rates. Provide the inmate with the number associated with your VoIP service.
- Look for Discount Programs – Check the website of the phone service provider used by the correctional facility (e.g., GTL, Securus) for any discount or family and friends programs.
- Use a Local Number Service – Find a service that provides a local number for the inmate to call. Forward this local number to your cell phone. This can reduce the cost of the call significantly, though it might not be free.
Examples of Providers
- GTL (Global Tel Link)
- Website: GTL – ConnectNetwork
- Check for discount plans and prepaid options.
- Securus Technologies
- Website: Securus Technologies
- Look for family plans or monthly subscriptions.
- ICSolutions
- Website: ICSolutions
- Explore prepaid accounts and potential discount options.
- Telmate (GettingOut)
- Website: Telmate – GettingOut
- Investigate if there are any reduced rate plans available.
Contacting the Facility
- Facility Website –  Check the correctional facility’s website for information on phone call options and any available programs that could reduce costs.
- Inmate Handbook – Review the inmate handbook, which often includes information about communication options and cost-saving measures.
While it may be difficult to accept collect calls from jail for free, using a combination of Google Voice, VoIP services, discount programs, and local number forwarding services can help reduce the costs significantly. Always check with the specific correctional facility and their phone service provider for the most accurate and applicable options.