Incarceration and Phone Communication: Understanding the Costs and Benefits

Communication with loved ones is a crucial aspect of life for those who are incarcerated. Whether through phone calls or video visits, staying connected can significantly impact one's well-being and the strength of family bonds. However, the cost of these communication methods can vary greatly between different facilities and regions. This article explores the different costs of making phone calls from jail or prison, the policies that offer free calls, and the implications for inmates and their families.

Varied Costs of Incarceration Phone Calls

The cost of phone calls for inmates can vary significantly based on the location and facility. In Pennsylvania, for example, the cost of a phone call can range from 6 to 8 cents per minute. However, the rates change based on the specific number being called. Local call rates and rates for out-of-state calls can differ substantially.

In Philadelphia, the costs have shifted. According to current data, one set of pen pals in this area is able to make free calls, which is a result of ongoing COVID-19 relief efforts. Two pen pals, however, face different charges: one pays approximately 4 cents per minute, and the other pays around $0.30 per hour for a phone call.

Before the onset of the pandemic, most calls were relatively expensive, often necessitating use on weekends. Video visits were even more costly, with some facilities charging as much as $0.33 per minute for video calls, plus a connect fee. These high costs meant that many calls were limited to special occasions or holidays.

Benefits of Free Phone Calls

Despite the high costs, several states continue to offer free phone calls to their inmates. This initiative is aimed at strengthening familial relationships and providing support during tough times. Free phone calls are a significant blessing for both the incarcerated individuals and their families.

The average cost of a 30-minute phone call is approximately 16 cents per minute. Many facilities now offer video visit kiosks, which can be more expensive, typically costing around $9 for a 15-minute session. Video visits often come with additional service fees, such as a $1 connection fee for VAC (Video Assistant Connection) services, which were once more expensive at around $0.33 per minute.

Who Pays for the Calls?

In most cases, it is the person outside of jail or prison who pays for the call. When the first call is made, the individual on the other end of the line is prompted to set up a prepaid account using a credit card. This ensures that both parties are aware of the financial implications. Some facilities allow inmates to use their commissary accounts to pay for calls, but this is less common.

At the author's previous workplace, a strict protocol was in place for external callers. The family or friend making the call had to be notified in advance of the call time. This prevented unauthorized or illegal activities such as inmates using their own cell phones for calls. If an inmate had a cell phone, it was considered illegal to use it for making calls or other unauthorized activities.

Overall, the cost of phone calls for inmates can significantly impact both the individual's financial stability and their ability to maintain connections with loved ones. The availability of free calls and the implementation of various policies can help alleviate some of these financial burdens and support the well-being of incarcerated individuals and their families.

Keywords: incarceration phone calls, free phone calls for inmates, prison call costs