Calling someone in jail involves a few specific steps and considerations, depending on the facility where they are incarcerated.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to call someone in jail…
Steps to Call Someone in Jail
- Understand the Facility’s Phone System – Inmates typically cannot receive incoming calls. Instead, they must make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Different facilities use different phone service providers, so it’s important to know which service the jail uses.
- Set Up an Account
- Telephone Service Provider – Determine the phone service provider used by the jail or prison. Common providers include GTL (Global Tel Link), Securus Technologies, and ICSolutions.
- Create an Account – Visit the provider’s website and create an account. You may need to provide your personal information and the inmate’s details.
- Deposit Funds – Add money to your account. This money will be used to pay for calls made by the inmate.
- Add Your Phone Number to the Approved List – Inmates typically need to have your phone number added to their approved calling list. This process may require you to provide your number directly to the inmate through a letter or during a visit, or the inmate may need to submit it for approval through the facility’s administration.
- Receiving Calls – Once your number is approved and funds are added to the account, the inmate can initiate calls to your phone.
- Collect Calls – In some facilities, inmates can make collect calls, where the recipient accepts the charges. Ensure your phone plan allows for collect calls if this option is used.
- Answering the Call – When the inmate calls, you will typically receive a recorded message informing you that the call is from a correctional facility and asking if you accept the charges or want to continue the call. Follow the prompts to accept the call and begin the conversation.
Costs and Considerations
- Cost of Calls – Inmate calls can be expensive, often charged per minute. Rates vary by provider and facility, so it’s important to check the specific costs on the service provider’s website.
- Call Duration –Â Calls from inmates are often limited in duration, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.
- Monitoring and Recording –Â Be aware that calls from jails and prisons are usually monitored and recorded for security reasons.
Common Service Providers
- GTL (Global Tel Link)
- Website – GTL
- Services – Prepaid accounts, collect calls, inmate voicemail, and video visitation.
- Securus Technologies:
- Website – Securus
- Services – Prepaid calling accounts, direct billing, and voicemail.
- ICSolutions:
- Website – ICSolutions
- Services – Prepaid accounts, collect calls, and debit calling.
Alternative Communication Methods
- Email – Some facilities offer email services through providers like CorrLinks or JPay, where you can send and receive emails from inmates.
- Video Visitation – Video visitation services allow you to have video calls with inmates, similar to video conferencing.
- Letters – Traditional mail is still a common way to communicate with inmates. Make sure to follow the facility’s guidelines for sending letters.
Calling someone in jail requires setting up an account with the facility’s phone service provider, ensuring your number is approved, and depositing funds to cover the call costs. Be prepared for the calls to be monitored and limited in duration. By following these steps and understanding the costs involved, you can maintain communication with someone who is incarcerated.