How to Reduce the Cost of Jail Telephone Calls: Insider Tips

Staying in touch with a loved one who’s in jail can be an important way to offer support and maintain your relationship. However, the cost of prison phone calls can be extremely high, and for many families, this becomes a financial strain. Jail phone calls are often priced much higher than regular calls due to the involvement of third-party providers, and this makes it difficult for families to keep up with the charges.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to reduce the cost of jail phone calls. If you’re in Melbourne or any other area, there are tips and strategies that can help you lower the price of these calls. Whether you’re looking for more affordable ways to stay in touch with your loved one or simply want to find out how to manage the expenses, this guide will give you the knowledge to make better choices and save money. By the end of this article, you’ll be better equipped to reduce the costs of prison phone calls.

Why Are Jail Phone Calls So Expensive?

One of the main reasons jail calls are so expensive is the involvement of third-party companies that handle the phone service for prisons. These companies often charge high rates for phone calls, including extra fees for things like connection charges, per-minute rates, and even service maintenance fees. The cost of staying in touch with an inmate can quickly add up, and this often leaves families struggling to afford regular communication.

The prices for prison phone calls can vary depending on the location and the facility, but the general trend is that these calls are priced much higher than typical phone services. While some states and countries have begun regulating these fees, the charges are still often seen as excessive. For many people, staying in touch with a loved one behind bars becomes a financial burden due to these high rates.

How to Lower the Cost of Jail Phone Calls

Now that we’ve covered why these calls are expensive, let’s talk about how you can reduce the cost of these phone calls. There are many practical steps you can take to make these calls more affordable.

1. Look for discounted jail phone services

One of the best ways to reduce the cost of prison phone calls is to search for services that offer discounted rates. Some companies or programmes offer cheaper alternatives for families of inmates. These services can provide lower connection fees, reduced per-minute rates, and fewer additional charges, making it easier to keep in touch with your loved one without breaking the bank.

In some cases, local governments or even specific prison facilities might have arrangements with certain providers to offer cheaper phone rates. Be sure to reach out to your local prison or correctional facility to ask about any discounts or affordable phone services they offer. If these discounted services are available, they could make a big difference in reducing your phone bill.

2. Choose Fewer, Longer Calls Instead of Frequent, Short Calls

Many families make the mistake of calling their loved ones multiple times a week for brief conversations, but this can add up quickly due to high connection fees and per-minute charges. A good way to save money is by choosing fewer, longer calls instead. This approach allows you to avoid multiple connection fees, and many services charge less per minute for longer calls.

By scheduling longer calls, you can make your time on the phone more valuable and reduce the number of calls you need to make. It’s also a good idea to plan for these calls in advance to make the most of the time you have during each call. This way, you get more conversation for less money.

3. Consider Email or Video Communication

In addition to phone calls, some prisons now offer alternative methods of communication, such as email and video calls, which can be more affordable. Depending on the facility, your loved one may have access to email services, where you can send messages instead of making expensive phone calls. Emailing can be a cost-effective way to stay in touch with someone behind bars, as these services often charge lower rates compared to phone calls.

In some cases, prisons also offer video calling services, which provide a more personal way to communicate without the high cost of traditional phone calls. Even if video calls are not available in all prisons, it’s worth asking about these options. If you can connect with your loved one using cheaper alternatives like email or video calls, it can save you a lot of money in the long run.

4. Use Prepaid Phone Cards

Another option for reducing the cost of jail phone calls is to use prepaid phone cards. These cards are sold in advance and can be used to pay for phone calls at a lower rate than traditional prison phone services. While not all facilities accept prepaid cards, many do, and they can be a great way to save money.

Prepaid cards typically come with lower connection fees and more affordable per-minute rates. If your loved one’s facility accepts them, you can load money onto the card and use it to make calls. Be sure to research different cards to find one that offers the best value for your situation. Prepaid cards may have a small activation fee, but they usually cost much less than the standard prison phone services.

5. Check for Subsidised Calling Programmes

Some government programmes or nonprofit organisations help reduce the cost of prison phone calls for families in need. These programmes are usually designed to help low-income families stay connected with incarcerated loved ones. Depending on where you live, there may be programmes available that offer reduced or even free calls for qualifying individuals.

These programmes may vary by region, so it’s worth researching whether any subsidised calling programmes exist in your area. You can contact local organisations or even the prison to ask about options for reducing the cost of phone calls through these types of initiatives.

6. Use an Engine Number for Prisoners

In some areas, you can set up a special phone line for prison calls using an engine number for prisoners. This number is a direct connection that allows you to make calls at a much lower rate than regular prison phone services. If you have a loved one in a facility that offers this option, it could be an excellent way to reduce the overall cost of phone calls.

To take advantage of this option, you’ll need to ask your loved one’s facility if they use such a system and how you can set it up. The Engine Number is typically cheaper than standard phone services, and it’s a great way to cut down on your phone bill.

7. Be Aware of Hidden Fees

Before committing to any prison phone service, be sure to ask about all potential fees. Some companies advertise low rates, but there may be hidden fees that make the cost much higher than you expect. These hidden fees can include connection charges, maintenance fees, or additional costs for features like voicemail.

To avoid surprises, always ask the service provider or the prison about any extra charges that might apply. Knowing exactly what you’re being charged for can help you avoid unnecessary costs and keep your phone bill under control.

Conclusion

The cost of jail phone calls can be a huge challenge for families who want to stay connected with their loved ones in prison. However, with the right strategies and by taking advantage of available options, you can reduce these costs and make communication more affordable. Whether you’re looking for discounted services, using prepaid cards, or considering alternatives like email or video calls, there are several ways to cut down on the expenses.

If you’re searching for more ways to lower the cost of staying in touch, visit Prison Engine, which offers a variety of solutions designed to make communication with incarcerated loved ones more affordable. By using these tips and exploring available options, you can ensure that staying connected doesn’t break the bank.