Guide For Affordable Inmate Phone Calls From Jail

Staying in touch with a loved one who is in jail or prison is important, but the cost of phone calls can add up quickly. Inmate phone calls are often expensive, leaving families with large bills. But don’t worry—there are ways to make cheap inmate phone calls without spending too much. This guide will show you how to save money on call from jail services and get cheap prison phone calls without breaking the bank.

Why Are Inmate Phone Calls So Expensive?

Before we get into how to save money, it’s important to understand why inmate calls cost so much. In most cases, jails and prisons work with third-party companies to manage their phone systems. These companies charge high fees for things like connection charges, call rates, and sometimes even additional fees for long-distance or mobile calls. These added costs are usually passed on to the person receiving the call.Inmates can only call approved numbers, and the person receiving the call often has to pay the bill. This means cheap jail calls can be tough to find, but there are ways to make the process more affordable.

Tips for Saving Money on Jail and Prison Phone Calls

While prison calls can be expensive, there are a few things you can do to reduce the cost. Here are some practical tips for getting cheap inmate calls.

1. Set Up a Prepaid Account

One of the easiest ways to save on inmate phone calls is by setting up a prepaid calling account. Many jails and prisons allow family members to load money onto an account in advance. This way, the person receiving the call doesn’t have to pay the full price per minute.

• Benefits: You can control how much you spend, and prepaid plans are often cheaper than collect calls.

• How it Works: Simply load funds into the account, and the inmate can call from the jail or prison as needed.

If your loved one’s facility offers this option, it can be a great way to save money over time. Ask about prepaid accounts and find out how to set one up.

2. Use Direct Billing

Some facilities allow the person receiving the call to set up a direct billing account. This can help you avoid high fees associated with collect calls. With direct billing, the charges are added to your phone bill, and you can pay for the calls at a lower rate.This is another great option for saving on cheap inmate phone calls. It’s worth checking with your loved one’s facility to see if they offer direct billing, as it can help reduce the cost of calls from jail.

3. Explore VoIP and Internet Calling Services

If your loved one’s facility allows it, using a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service can be a cheaper option for inmate calls. VoIP services work by using the internet instead of traditional phone lines, which can make calls much more affordable.

• Benefits: VoIP calls can be very cheap, especially for long-distance or international calls.

• Limitations: Not all jails and prisons allow internet-based calls, so you’ll need to check if this is an option.

If it’s allowed at the facility, VoIP could be an excellent way to make cheap prison phone calls.

4. Look for Discounted Call Packages

Many correctional facilities offer call packages that give you discounted rates for purchasing a certain number of minutes in advance. These packages can help you save a lot of money if you expect to receive regular calls.

• Call Packages: Pay in advance for a bundle of minutes at a lower rate than individual calls.

• Budget-Friendly: This is a great option for families who get a lot of calls from their loved one.

Check with your loved one’s facility to see if they offer these packages. You might be able to purchase a discounted set of minutes that will last for several weeks or months.

5. Set Up a Local or Toll-Free Number

In some cases, you can set up a local or toll-free phone number for the inmate to call. This helps avoid extra charges that might come with long-distance calls. The inmate can call a local number, and you won’t have to pay more for the call.You’ll need to check with the facility to see if they allow local or toll-free numbers, but this can be a big help in reducing the cost of call from jail services.

6. Look for Phone Services That Specialise in Inmate Calls

There are companies that offer phone services specifically designed for inmate phone calls. These services often have better rates than regular phone companies because they focus on cheap prison phone calls.When looking for a provider, compare different options to find one that offers the best rates and has no hidden fees. Check their pricing to make sure it’s affordable and transparent.

7. Ask About Discounts or Promotions

Some phone services offer special discounts or promotions, especially for frequent callers. While these promotions may be temporary, they can help you save on cheap jail calls if they happen to be available.It’s a good idea to ask about any ongoing discounts or seasonal promotions. Sometimes, a phone service will run a promotion offering lower rates or free minutes, so don’t forget to ask.

8. Be Aware of Hidden Fees

When setting up phone services for cheap inmate calls, make sure to ask about all potential fees. Many phone services charge extra fees for connection, setup, or even for calling from mobile phones. These fees can quickly add up, so make sure to choose a plan with minimal charges.Look for a provider that offers cheap inmate phone calls with clear and straightforward pricing. Avoid services that have hidden fees that could make the calls more expensive than you expect.

9. Choose Off-Peak Hours for Calls

In some cases, jails and prisons offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours. These are times when there are fewer calls being made, so the cost per minute might be lower.If possible, plan your calls during these hours to take advantage of cheap inmate phone calls. It might not be as convenient, but it can save you money in the long run.

10. Research Special Offers

Sometimes, phone service providers offer special promotions or limited-time deals that can make call from jail services more affordable. These deals might include lower rates or additional minutes for free.Keep an eye out for these offers and take advantage of them when you can. Special deals can be a great way to save on cheap prison phone calls.

Conclusion

Staying connected with a loved one in jail or prison doesn’t have to break the bank. By exploring options like prepaid accounts, direct billing, VoIP services, and discounted call packages, you can make cheap inmate phone calls a reality. It’s also worth asking about special promotions, choosing off-peak hours, and being aware of hidden fees to help save money on call from jail services.Remember, cheap jail calls are possible with a little bit of research and planning. Take advantage of the affordable options available to you, and keep in touch with your incarcerated loved one without worrying about high phone bills.