How to Choose the Right Service for Cheap Inmate Phone Calls

When a loved one is in jail or prison, staying in touch with them is one of the most important ways to offer support and keep your relationship strong. However, the high cost of inmate phone calls can create a significant challenge for families who want to maintain regular communication. 

Choosing the right phone service can help you reduce these costs and make it easier to stay connected. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to find a cheap inmate phone service that works for you. Whether you’re looking to avoid high fees, navigate complicated billing, or find better alternatives, this guide has all the information you need. By the end, you’ll know how to make smart choices that help you stay in touch with your loved one without breaking the bank.

Why Are Inmate Phone Calls So Expensive?

Before diving into how to choose the right service, it’s important to understand why inmate phone calls can be so expensive. Most jails and prisons work with private companies to provide phone services for inmates. These companies typically charge high rates because they have a monopoly on the phone services in each facility. Families have no choice but to pay whatever the service provider charges.

There are a few factors that contribute to the high costs of these calls. First, correctional facilities use specialized phone systems that are monitored and recorded for security purposes, which increases operational costs. Additionally, these phone service companies charge extra fees for things like connection fees, maintenance, and per-minute charges, which can make a short call much more expensive.

Since these fees can quickly add up, it’s crucial to find ways to cut costs while still being able to communicate with your loved one. Knowing the reasons behind high phone rates can help you make more informed decisions when selecting a service provider.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Inmate Phone Service

To help you find the most affordable and reliable phone service, here are the key factors you should consider before making a decision.

1. Find Out the Phone Provider Used at the Facility

The first step in choosing a phone service is to figure out which company provides the phone services at the facility where your loved one is located. Many jails and prisons have exclusive contracts with specific phone providers, meaning they only offer services from one company. This can limit your options, but knowing which company is used will help you compare prices and find the best deal.

Once you know the provider, take some time to research their rates and fees. Many facilities post this information online, but if it’s not available, you can call the jail or prison for details. It’s important to compare the costs for calls, as some providers charge more than others.

2. Consider Prepaid Accounts vs. Collect Calls

When selecting a phone service, you’ll usually have two main options: prepaid accounts or collect calls. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that fits your needs.

Prepaid Accounts: Many phone service providers allow families to set up prepaid accounts. This means you can load money onto an account for your loved one to use for phone calls. Prepaid accounts allow you to control how much money you spend, which helps avoid unexpected charges. Prepaid accounts also often have lower rates than collect calls, which means you get more minutes for your money.

Collect Calls: With collect calls, the person receiving the call pays for the charges. While this may seem like an easy option, it’s usually more expensive because the rates for collect calls are higher. You may also have to pay extra connection fees. If you receive multiple calls a month, this can quickly add up to a high bill.

If your loved one calls frequently, a prepaid account might be the more cost-effective option. It allows you to keep track of how much money is being spent and avoid the extra charges that come with collect calls.

3. Watch Out for Hidden Fees

Inmate phone services often have hidden fees that can add up quickly. These fees may not always be clearly listed when you first sign up, so it’s important to carefully check the fine print before committing to a service. Some common fees to look out for include:

• Connection Fees: These are charges applied every time a call is made, regardless of the call’s length.

• Maintenance Fees: Some providers charge a monthly maintenance fee just to keep your account active.

• Deposit Fees: Some services charge fees for adding money to your account or transferring funds.

• Billing Fees: Some companies charge extra fees for billing, especially if you’re receiving collect calls.

Before choosing a provider, ask about all potential fees so you won’t be surprised later. Understanding the full cost of the service will help you find the most affordable option.

4. Check the Quality of Service and Customer Support

While cost is an important factor, the quality of the phone service is just as crucial. If the call quality is poor, it can be frustrating for both you and your loved one. Make sure to check reviews or ask other families about their experiences with the service provider. If possible, try to test the service before committing to it, especially if you’re planning on making frequent calls.

Good customer service is also important. If there’s a problem with your account or a billing issue, you’ll want to know that the provider has a responsive customer service team. Look for a service that offers multiple ways to contact customer support, such as by phone, email, or online chat.

5. Look into Third-Party Calling Services

In addition to the official phone provider at the jail or prison, third-party services may offer cheaper options. These services act as middlemen, helping families save money by offering lower rates for inmate calls. Third-party providers typically negotiate better rates with the phone companies and pass those savings on to you.

Some third-party services even offer bulk plans, where you can buy a block of minutes at a discounted rate. This can be a great option if you’re regularly receiving calls from your loved one.

Before using a third-party service, be sure to compare its rates with those of the official provider to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Also, check for any additional fees or limitations, such as call length restrictions.

6. Consider Video Calling as an Alternative

Some jails and prisons now offer video calls as an alternative to regular phone calls. While not all facilities have this option, video calls tend to be more affordable than traditional phone calls, and they allow you to see your loved one while talking. Video calls can help strengthen your connection and provide a more personal communication experience.

If video calls are available at the facility, check the pricing details to determine if this is a cheaper alternative for you. Even if video calls are slightly more expensive than phone calls, the added benefit of seeing your loved one may make the extra cost worth it.

7. Look for State or Local Regulations

In some areas, there are state or local laws that limit how much phone companies can charge for inmate calls. These regulations are designed to prevent families from being charged excessive fees and ensure that phone services remain affordable.

To find out if these laws apply in your area, check with local advocacy groups, government agencies, or the prison or jail where your loved one is located. If your state or local government has regulations that limit phone costs, you may be able to take advantage of lower rates.

Conclusion

Choosing the right phone service for inmate communication doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the costs involved and considering factors like prepaid accounts, hidden fees, and alternative options like video calls, you can find an affordable and reliable way to stay in touch with your incarcerated loved one. Remember to do your research, compare different services, and consider third-party providers to find the best deal for your situation.

If you’re looking for more information on affordable inmate phone services, Prison Engine offers helpful resources to guide you through the process. By making informed decisions, you can reduce the cost of phone calls and maintain meaningful communication with your loved one behind bars.