How to Save Money on Prison Calls: Affordable Communication Tips

Keeping in touch with a loved one in prison can be tough, especially when it comes to the high cost of phone calls. Many families find it hard to stay connected because prison phone calls can be really expensive. But don’t worry—there are simple ways you can save money and keep in touch without breaking the bank. This guide will show you easy tips to make your calls more affordable.

Why Are Prison Calls So Expensive?

Prison phone calls cost a lot because of high fees, service charges, and the way companies manage these services. Some companies even have exclusive contracts with prisons, which limits your choices and makes prices go up. The good news is that you don’t have to accept these high rates. With the right information, you can find cheaper ways to stay connected.

1. Compare Different Phone Service Providers

The first step to saving money is to compare different phone service providers. Some companies offer cheap prison phone calls and cheap inmate phone calls that are way more affordable than others. Even if your loved one’s prison has a preferred provider, you might be able to find a cheaper option if the facility allows it.

Make sure to check different companies, compare their rates, and see which one offers the best deal. Don’t settle for the first option you find—shopping around can save you a lot of money.

2. Use Prepaid Accounts

Setting up a prepaid account can help you control costs. With a prepaid account, you put money into your account ahead of time, and the cost of each call is deducted from your balance. This way, you won’t be surprised by hidden fees or unexpected charges.

Prepaid accounts also help you budget better because you can only spend what’s in your account. Some companies even offer discounts for prepaid accounts, which can save you even more.

3. Look for Special Deals and Discounts

Many phone service companies offer special promotions or discounts, especially around holidays or special occasions. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can significantly lower the cost of your calls.

Some companies also have specific numbers that are cheaper to call, known as cheapest engine numbers. If your loved one’s prison allows it, you can use these numbers to save money on calls.

4. Call During Off-Peak Hours

Just like with regular phone companies, the cost of prison calls can vary depending on the time of day. Calls made during peak hours (like evenings and weekends) are usually more expensive.

Check with your service provider to see if they offer cheaper rates during off-peak times. If you can, schedule your calls for these hours to save money.

5. Try Internet-Based Calling (VoIP)

If the prison allows it, you might be able to use Internet-based calling services, also known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). These services often cost less than regular phone calls because they use the internet instead of traditional phone lines.

Make sure to confirm that the facility supports VoIP calls before setting this up. If it’s allowed, this can be one of the cheapest ways to stay in touch.

6. Send Messages Instead of Calls

If making phone calls is too expensive, consider using inmate messaging services. These services let you send text messages to your loved one, which are usually much cheaper than phone calls.

While messaging isn’t the same as hearing someone’s voice, it’s still a great way to stay connected, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

7. Set Up a Regular Call Schedule

Planning your calls can help you save money. By setting up a regular schedule, you can budget for each call and avoid overspending.

Some providers even let you schedule calls ahead of time, which can help you take advantage of cheaper off-peak rates. This way, you’ll always know when your calls are happening, and you’ll stay within your budget.

8. Check for Government or Non-Profit Programmes

Some areas have government programmes or non-profit organisations that help families with the cost of prison calls. These programmes might offer lower rates or even free calls for people who qualify.

It’s worth checking if any of these programmes are available where your loved one is incarcerated. They can make a big difference if you’re having trouble affording the calls.

9. Watch Out for Hidden Fees

Always read the fine print when signing up for a phone service. Some companies advertise low rates but add hidden fees for things like connection charges, account maintenance, or call setup.

Make sure you understand all the costs before committing to a service. Ask for a full breakdown of the fees to avoid surprises later on.

10. Use Apps and Online Tools

There are apps and online platforms designed to help families save money on prison calls. These tools can help you compare prices, manage your account, and even schedule calls more easily.

sing these tools can save you time and money, and they can help you find the best deals for staying connected.

Conclusion

Staying connected with a loved one in prison doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By shopping around for the best service provider, using prepaid accounts, taking advantage of discounts, and exploring other communication options, you can save money while keeping in touch.

For more tips and resources on affordable prison communication, visit Prison Engine. They offer tools and information to help you find the best deals on prison calls so you can stay connected without stressing about the cost.