How Do TDCJ Inmate Phone Calls Work?

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has established a structured system for inmate phone communications. Inmates in TDCJ facilities cannot receive incoming calls; they can only place outbound calls to approved numbers on their contact list. Before any communication can occur, inmates must submit phone numbers for approval through the facility’s verification process. Once approved, these numbers are added to the inmate’s calling list, allowing them to place calls using the prison’s designated phone system.

TDCJ contracts with specific telecommunications providers to manage these services. Currently, Securus Technologies is the primary vendor handling phone services in Texas state prisons. Calls are monitored and recorded by prison authorities, with the exception of privileged communications with attorneys. Time restrictions typically limit calls to 20-30 minutes, and inmates can only make calls during designated periods based on their facility’s schedule.

What Are the Costs of Texas Prison Phone Calls?

Prison phone calls in Texas have historically been expensive compared to standard phone services, though reforms have gradually reduced these costs. Currently, rates for intrastate calls (calls within Texas) from TDCJ facilities are capped at approximately $0.06 per minute plus applicable connection fees. For interstate calls (calls to other states), rates may be higher but are subject to FCC regulations that limit excessive charges.

Families typically pay for these calls through pre-paid accounts established with the telecommunications provider. These accounts can be funded online, by phone, or through kiosks available in some facility visitation areas. Many families report spending between $50-$200 per month to maintain regular communication with incarcerated loved ones, depending on call frequency.

How to Set Up Prison Phone Service for Texas Inmates

Setting up phone service for a TDCJ inmate requires several steps. First, you’ll need to create an account with the current telecommunications provider contracted by TDCJ. This process involves:

1. Registering online or by phone with the provider (currently Securus Technologies)

2. Providing identification information to verify your identity

3. Adding funds to your account through credit/debit card, money order, or other accepted payment methods

4. Ensuring your phone number is on the inmate’s approved calling list

Once your account is established and funded, the inmate can place calls to your number using their facility’s phone system. New accounts typically require 24-48 hours for verification and activation. Most providers offer customer service to help navigate technical issues or answer questions about account management.

How to Find an Inmate Phone Number Lookup in Texas

Locating an inmate in the Texas prison system is a prerequisite for establishing communication. The TDCJ offers an online inmate search tool that provides basic information about individuals in custody. While this database doesn’t directly provide phone numbers for calling inmates (as inmates cannot receive direct calls), it supplies essential information needed to set up communication, including:

1. The inmate’s TDCJ identification number

2. Current facility location

3. Custody status information

This information is necessary when establishing an account with the telecommunications provider. Additionally, the TDCJ website provides facility-specific information, including mailing addresses and approved visiting hours. For families who are uncertain about an inmate’s location, this lookup service is the first step in establishing communication channels.

Tips for Finding Cheap Prison Calls in Texas

Managing the cost of prison communications requires strategic planning. Several approaches can help families reduce expenses while maintaining regular contact:

1. Take advantage of any promotional rates offered by the telecommunications provider

2. Consider setting up scheduled calls to maximize efficiency during each conversation

3. Use prepaid options rather than collect calls when possible, as they typically offer better rates

4. Explore communication alternatives like email services (where available) or traditional mail

Some advocacy organizations also offer support programs that can help offset communication costs for qualifying families. Additionally, staying informed about regulatory changes is important, as both federal and state authorities periodically review and adjust allowable rates for prison telecommunications.

Prison Phone Service Providers in Texas

The landscape of prison telecommunications services in Texas is limited to contracted providers. Understanding your options can help manage costs and expectations effectively.

---

Provider	Services	Features	Approximate Cost
Securus Technologies	Voice calls, video visitation	Account management app, automated payment options	$0.06-$0.21 per minute depending on call type
GTL (Now ViaPath)	Voice calls in select facilities	Online account management, scheduled payments	$0.05-$0.25 per minute depending on facility
NCIC Inmate Communications	Voice services for some county facilities	Bilingual support, multiple payment methods	$0.10-$0.25 per minute for local calls
PayTel	County jail communications	Automated account management, deposit options	$0.15-$0.25 per minute for local calls

---

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Communication with incarcerated loved ones remains an essential part of supporting rehabilitation and maintaining family connections during incarceration. While the system has complexities and costs, understanding the available options helps families navigate these challenges more effectively. The TDCJ continues to evaluate and update its communication policies, so regularly checking their official website for updates is advisable for families maintaining contact with inmates in the Texas prison system.