Discover the Latest on Texas Prison Phone – The Full Guide!

Texas Prison Phone Services

Keeping in touch with loved ones while incarcerated is essential for maintaining emotional well-being and social connections. In Texas, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) regulates phone services within its correctional facilities. Understanding the policies and procedures surrounding prison phone calls can help ensure effective communication and support for inmates and their families.

TDCJ’s Phone Service Provider

TDCJ contracts with Securus Technologies to provide phone services in its facilities. Securus offers various calling plans and services tailored to the needs of inmates and their families. These services include:

• Debit and prepaid calling accounts
• Collect calls
• Video visitation
• Messaging services

Inmate Phone Privileges

Inmates are generally allowed to make phone calls during designated times and from approved locations within the facility. The frequency and duration of calls may vary depending on the inmate’s security level and disciplinary status. Inmates are typically required to use a calling card or prepaid account to make calls.

Call Monitoring and Recording

All phone calls made by inmates are subject to monitoring and recording by TDCJ staff. This monitoring is intended to ensure the safety and security of the facility, prevent contraband from entering the prison, and facilitate investigations. Inmates should be aware that their conversations may be recorded and reviewed.

Cost of Phone Calls

The cost of phone calls from Texas prisons varies depending on the calling plan and service provider. Securus offers a range of calling plans with different rates and features. Inmates and their families can choose a plan that best meets their needs and budget.

Alternative Communication Methods

In addition to phone calls, inmates may have access to alternative communication methods such as mail and visitation. Mail is a traditional and reliable way to stay connected with inmates, while visitation allows for face-to-face interaction. Families should check with the specific facility to inquire about visitation policies and schedules.

Securus Technologies

Securus Technologies is the exclusive provider of phone services in Texas prisons. The company offers a range of calling plans, services, and technologies to meet the needs of inmates and their families. Understanding Securus’s offerings can help you make informed decisions about prison phone communication.

Telmate Inmate Calling Services

Securus offers Telmate Inmate Calling Services as its primary phone service for Texas prisons. Telmate provides inmates with access to calling cards, prepaid accounts, and collect calls. Inmates can use Telmate to make calls to approved phone numbers, including landlines and mobile phones.

JPay Connect

JPay Connect is Securus’s video visitation service for Texas prisons. JPay Connect allows inmates to schedule and participate in video visits with family and friends from approved locations. Video visits provide a more personal and interactive way for inmates to connect with their loved ones.

JPay Messaging

JPay Messaging is Securus’s messaging service for Texas prisons. JPay Messaging allows inmates to send and receive electronic messages with approved contacts. Messages are reviewed by TDCJ staff before being delivered to inmates.

Additional Services

In addition to calling, video visitation, and messaging services, Securus offers a range of other services for inmates and their families. These services include:

• Money transfer services
• Photo sharing
• Legal services
• Educational programs

How to Set Up an Inmate Phone Account

Setting up an inmate phone account is a simple and straightforward process. You can create an account online or by phone. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Visit the Securus website: Go to the Securus website at https://securustech.net/.
2. Create an account: Click on the “Create Account” button and follow the prompts to create a free Securus account.
3. Add inmate information: Enter the inmate’s name, TDCJ ID number, and facility location. You can find this information on the inmate’s commitment papers or by contacting the facility directly.
4. Select a calling plan: Choose a calling plan that meets your needs and budget. Securus offers a variety of plans with different rates and features.
5. Fund the account: Add money to the inmate’s phone account using a credit or debit card, or by mailing a money order or cashier’s check.

Managing Inmate Phone Accounts

Once you have set up an inmate phone account, you can manage the account online or by phone. Here are some of the things you can do:

• Add funds: Add money to the inmate’s phone account as needed to ensure they have enough funds to make calls.
• Change calling plan: If you need to change the inmate’s calling plan, you can do so online or by phone.
• Set up automatic payments: You can set up automatic payments to ensure that the inmate’s phone account is always funded.
• View call history: You can view the inmate’s call history online or by phone. This can help you track the inmate’s phone usage and identify any potential issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Texas prison phone services:

• How much do phone calls from Texas prisons cost? The cost of phone calls varies depending on the calling plan and service provider. Securus offers a range of calling plans with different rates and features.
• How can I add money to an inmate’s phone account? You can add money to an inmate’s phone account online, by phone, or by mailing a money order or cashier’s check.
• Can inmates make collect calls? Yes, inmates can make collect calls. However, collect calls are more expensive than prepaid calls.
• How can I set up video visitation? You can set up video visitation through Securus’s JPay Connect service. JPay Connect allows inmates to schedule and participate in video visits with family and friends from approved locations.
• Can inmates send and receive mail? Yes, inmates can send and receive mail. Mail is a traditional and reliable way to stay connected with inmates.

Conclusion

Understanding Texas prison phone services is essential for maintaining communication and support for inmates and their families. By following the guidelines and procedures outlined in this guide, you can effectively use prison phone services to stay connected with your loved ones while they are incarcerated.

Remember to check with the specific facility for any additional policies or restrictions regarding phone calls, visitation, and other communication methods. By staying informed and following the rules, you can ensure that you have the best possible communication experience with your incarcerated loved ones.