Staying in touch with someone who’s in prison or jail is really important, but it can be expensive. The cost of phone calls from prison can add up quickly, and many families struggle with the high prices of staying connected. Fortunately, there are several ways you can save money on prison calls, so you don’t have to worry about sky-high bills while trying to support your loved one. This guide will help you understand how to make phone calls from jail or prison more affordable, without losing the chance to talk to your loved one regularly.
In the past, phone companies that work with prisons have been criticised for charging families a lot of money for phone calls. The prices can feel unfair, especially when you’re trying to maintain a connection with someone who’s incarcerated. But don’t worry—there are simple solutions that can help you lower your prison call costs. Let’s dive into the best ways to save money on inmate phone calls so you can keep in touch without breaking your budget.
Why Are Prison Calls So Expensive?
Before we get into how to save money, it’s helpful to know why prison calls are so expensive. Most jails and prisons work with third-party companies that handle phone calls. These companies often charge high rates, sometimes adding extra fees for local and long-distance calls. That means when your loved one makes a call, you might be paying a lot more than you would for a regular phone call.
Some facilities only allow collect calls, where the person receiving the call has to pay. Other times, inmates use prepaid accounts to make calls. But these accounts can have their own hidden fees, like monthly maintenance charges or deposits that you have to keep topped up. By understanding how these charges work, you can make smarter choices that help you save money.
1. Set Up a Prepaid Account for Calls
A great way to save money is to set up a prepaid account for your loved one. Many jails and prisons let you load money into an inmate’s phone account. Then, they can use that balance to make calls, and you won’t have to worry about being charged high fees for collect calls. Prepaid accounts are often cheaper than collect calls, so you’ll end up saving money in the long run.
However, before setting up a prepaid account, check if there are any setup fees or maintenance charges. Some facilities may only accept prepaid accounts, while others may have different rules, so make sure you know the details.
2. Shop Around for the Best Phone Provider
Even though the prison or jail may only offer one phone service, it’s still worth looking into different options. Some providers offer better rates than others, and you might be able to find one that fits your budget better. Some phone companies also offer discounted packages for long-term users or families who need to make frequent calls, so take the time to check around for deals.
Look for services that are specifically designed for prison calls. These often have lower rates than the standard collect call services and may even have better deals for international calls. You might need to pay a small setup fee, but the savings on each call can be worth it.
3. Direct Billing Option
Another way to save on prison calls is to set up a direct billing option. This lets the phone provider charge your phone bill or credit card directly for the calls, instead of using a prepaid account. This can be a great option if you want to avoid the hassle of keeping track of a separate prepaid account. Plus, direct billing may come with cheaper rates.
Be sure to check with your regular phone service provider to see if they allow this option. Some companies may offer a discount if you’re using direct billing for prison calls, so it’s definitely worth asking about.
4. Try Video Calls and Other Alternatives
In-person visits can be expensive and complicated, but video calls can be a cheaper alternative. Some prisons offer video visitation services, where you can talk to your loved one through a video call instead of a regular phone call. These calls are often more affordable than traditional phone calls, and they can help make the experience feel more personal.
Additionally, letters or email services (if the prison allows them) are an affordable way to communicate. While they don’t provide the instant connection that phone calls do, they can still help you stay in touch without the high cost of phone calls.
5. Check for Local or State Programmes
Some states and local governments offer programmes that reduce the cost of phone calls for families. These programmes can be run by the state or by nonprofit organisations and may offer discounted rates for people who need to stay in touch with someone in prison. If there are such programmes in your area, you can find out by contacting the prison or jail where your loved one is being held or checking with local criminal justice reform groups.
Some states also regulate phone prices to make sure they’re fair, so it’s worth researching if there’s any legislation in your area that can help you reduce the cost of calls.
6. Local Calls Are Cheaper
If your loved one is calling from a nearby jail or prison, you might be able to save money by having them make local calls. Local calls tend to be cheaper than long-distance calls, so if the facility allows it, encourage your loved one to make calls to local numbers instead of out-of-state numbers.
If local calls are possible, you could even consider setting up a local number that the inmate can call, which might reduce the cost further. Just make sure to check with the facility to see what’s allowed.
7. Set Limits on Call Frequency and Duration
While it’s important to stay connected, the number of calls and the length of each call can quickly add up. To avoid surprises on your phone bill, it’s a good idea to set some limits on how often and how long calls will be. You can have a conversation with your loved one about these limits so they understand the need to keep calls shorter or less frequent.
By setting a budget for calls, you can manage costs better and still stay in touch regularly. It’s all about finding a balance between staying connected and keeping your phone bills affordable.
8. Look for Special Discounts or Offers
Phone service providers sometimes run special promotions that can help you save on prison calls. These discounts could be for new customers, certain times of day, or bulk purchases of call minutes. Some providers also offer loyalty programmes or referral discounts, which can lower your overall costs if you continue using their service for a long time.
Always be on the lookout for deals that could save you money. Even small discounts can add up over time, helping you keep your phone bills under control.
Conclusion: Save Money on Calls with Prison Engine
Staying in touch with a loved one in prison doesn’t have to be a financial strain. By using prepaid accounts, shopping for better rates, and exploring alternative ways to communicate, you can save money on prison calls while still maintaining that important connection.
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy way to make prison calls, check out Prison Engine. They offer affordable rates for inmate phone calls, making it easier for families to stay connected without worrying about high fees. With Prison Engine, you can manage your calls and save money, so your loved one can reach out to you without breaking the bank.
