The cost for an inmate to call you can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of facility (local jail, state prison, federal prison), the location, the service provider, and the type of call (collect, prepaid, or debit).

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs and factors involved…

Type of Facility

• Local Jails –  Rates can vary by county and city.
• State Prisons – Rates are set by state contracts with telecom providers.
• Federal Prisons – Rates are generally standardized across the federal system.

Call Type

• Collect Calls – The recipient pays for the call. Rates can be higher.
• Prepaid Calls – Paid in advance by the inmate or the recipient. Usually cheaper than collect calls.
• Debit Calls – The inmate pays from their commissary account. Often the cheapest option.

3. Service Providers – Different facilities contract with different telecom providers, such as Global Tel Link (GTL), Securus Technologies, or ICSolutions. Each provider has its own pricing structure.

Call Distance

• Local Calls: – Typically cheaper than long-distance or international calls.
• Long-Distance Calls – More expensive than local calls.
• International Calls – The most expensive.

Cost Management

1. Set Up a Prepaid Account – Many service providers offer prepaid accounts that can help manage costs and ensure that calls can be made without interruption.
2. Monitor Usage – Keep track of the costs and call durations to avoid unexpected charges.
3. Seek Alternatives – Some facilities might offer video visitation or email services that could be more cost-effective.

Tips

• Check the Facility’s Website – Most facilities provide detailed information on their inmate phone services, including providers and rates.
• Contact the Service Provider – For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, contact the telecom provider directly.
• Watch for Hidden Fees – Be aware of additional fees that can apply, such as setup fees, transaction fees, or maintenance fees.

The cost for an inmate to call you depends on various factors, including the facility, call type, distance, and service provider. By understanding these factors and exploring cost-saving measures, you can better manage the expenses associated with inmate calls.