How to Save Money on Inmate Phone Calls: A Comprehensive Guide
Phone calls from jails and prisons are often the only way inmates can keep in touch with their families, lawyers, and other important people. Unfortunately, these calls can be very expensive, which puts a strain on both the inmates and their families. In some places, just one phone call can cost several dollars per minute, making it hard for families to stay connected with their loved ones who are incarcerated. This high cost often leaves families wondering how they can afford to talk to inmates without breaking the bank.
The good news is that there are a number of ways to save money on inmate phone calls. By understanding how the costs are set, exploring different calling options, and making smart choices, you can reduce the expense of these calls. In this guide, we’ll go over some simple tips and strategies to help you make phone calls more affordable so you can stay in touch with the people who matter most, even when they’re behind bars.
Why Inmate Phone Calls Are So Expensive
Inmate phone calls are often much more expensive than regular calls. The price is mainly determined by the prison or jail phone service provider, the type of phone call, and the distance between the inmate and the person receiving the call. Many prisons use companies that charge high rates for phone calls, and some of these companies pay a portion of their earnings to the facility as a commission. This is a big reason why calls from jail can be so expensive.
The cost of a call is usually higher for long-distance or international calls. Collect calls, where the person receiving the call pays for it, are often the most costly. Prepaid or debit calls, on the other hand, may be cheaper because they are paid for in advance by the inmate or their family. Understanding the differences between these options can help you find the most affordable way to stay connected.
Simple Ways to Save Money on Inmate Phone Calls
If you’re trying to make inmate phone calls more affordable, there are several ways to cut costs. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you save money:
Use Prepaid or Debit Accounts
Many prisons and jails allow families to set up prepaid or debit accounts for inmate phone calls. With a prepaid account, you deposit money into an account, and the inmate uses the balance to make calls. Debit accounts work similarly, but the inmate manages the funds. These options are usually cheaper than collect calls, where the recipient pays for the call. It’s a good idea to check with the facility where the inmate is located to see if prepaid or debit options are available.
Look for a Phone Plan
Some correctional facilities offer phone plans that allow families to pay a fixed monthly fee for a certain number of calls or minutes. These plans can be a good way to save money, especially if the inmate is staying for a long period of time. The plan can help you avoid paying high rates for individual calls and ensure regular communication without surprise costs.
Find the Cheapest Engine Number
Inmate phone systems often use certain engine numbers or dialling codes. Sometimes, different engine numbers can offer cheaper rates for calls. While some facilities may limit phone service to specific providers, it’s worth asking if there are other, cheaper options available. Some facilities might let inmates use a third-party service that offers lower prices, especially for long-distance calls.
Consider Online Services
In some cases, online services can be a cheaper way to handle inmate phone calls. These services allow families to set up accounts and receive calls from inmates at reduced rates. You may be able to get calls on your home phone or mobile phone for a lot less money than you would through the facility’s phone system. It’s worth looking into whether this option is available.
Make Calls During Off-Peak Hours
Just like regular phone service, jail and prison calls may be cheaper during off-peak hours. Call rates may be lower in the early morning or late evening when phone traffic is lighter. If the facility allows it, try to schedule calls during these times to take advantage of the lower prices.
Keep Track of Call Duration
The longer the phone call, the more expensive it will be. To save money, try to keep calls short and focused. You can still have meaningful conversations without going overboard on time. Setting a time limit for each call helps prevent any surprise charges and ensures that you stay within your budget.
Set Up Automatic Payments
Many phone service providers allow you to set up automatic payments for prepaid accounts. This option can help you avoid running out of funds for calls. Some providers also offer discounts or special deals for regular payments, so you can save a little more each month. Setting up automatic payments also makes it easier to keep track of how much you’re spending.
Use Local Phone Numbers
Some prisons or jails may allow you to use a local phone number when receiving calls from inmates. If you can register a local number that the inmate can dial, you may be able to avoid long-distance charges. This is especially helpful if the facility is far away or in a different region, as local calls usually cost less.
Looking for Alternatives to Traditional Jail Phone Systems
Recently, some jails and prisons have started offering alternatives to traditional phone systems that may be cheaper. These alternatives aren’t available in every facility, but it’s worth checking if your loved one’s prison offers them. One alternative is voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) services, which allow calls to be made over the internet instead of through the traditional phone system. VoIP calls are usually cheaper and can be a great option for long-distance communication.
Some states have also started programmes that let inmates use mobile phones for specific purposes, including making phone calls. While these programmes are still rare, they can provide a more affordable way for inmates to communicate. Keep an eye out for these newer options, as they could help you save money in the future.
Inmate phone calls don’t have to be a financial burden. By taking advantage of prepaid accounts, phone plans, and other affordable options, you can significantly reduce the cost of staying in touch with incarcerated loved ones. Understanding how the system works and choosing the right options can make phone calls from jail or prison much more manageable. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest engine number or an online service to save money, there are ways to keep in contact without overspending.
For more helpful tips and detailed information on saving money on inmate phone calls, visit Prison Engine.
