Inmate communication is essential for maintaining relationships, reducing recidivism, and improving inmate mental health. In federal facilities across the U.S., the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) provides inmates access to telephone services, adhering to regulations and security protocols. This article details the entire process of inmate phone calls in federal prisons, from setting up phone accounts to understanding inmate phone service restrictions and policies.
Table of contents
- Understanding the Basics of Inmate Phone Calls
- BOP Inmate Phone System: How It Works
- Security and Monitoring of Prison Phone Calls
- Cost of Inmate Calls
- Placing Inmate Phone Calls: Step-by-Step Process
- Inmate Calling Restrictions and Violations
- BOP Inmate Telephone Regulations
- Benefits of Inmate Phone Calls
- Frequently Asked Questions About Inmate Phone Calls
- Tips for Family Members Receiving Inmate Calls
Understanding the Basics of Inmate Phone Calls
Federal inmates rely on approved phone services to connect with family, friends, and attorneys. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains strict oversight, with all inmate calls monitored (except privileged calls to legal counsel). Inmates use a prepaid phone system to make calls, ensuring that communication remains controlled and secure.
Setting Up Inmate Phone Accounts
Inmates use a phone account established through the Trust Fund Limited Inmate Computer System (TRULINCS). This system allows inmates to manage approved contacts and prepaid phone funds, simplifying the calling process. Family members or friends can add funds to the inmate’s phone account via approved third-party payment providers.
- Account Creation: Inmates set up their accounts upon entry into a federal facility. They must register personal identification and a list of approved contacts.
- Funding the Account: Funds can be deposited through authorized providers, allowing inmates to pay for calls per minute.
- Approved Contact List: Only contacts listed on an inmate’s approved list can be called. BOP staff frequently review and update this list.
BOP Inmate Phone System: How It Works
The BOP employs a monitored phone system, which routes inmate calls through centralized phone service providers. This system allows the BOP to track and record calls, enhancing security.
Inmate Calling Service Providers
Federal facilities utilize selected inmate calling service providers, ensuring standardized rates and protocols across the prison system. The BOP regulates these systems to maintain consistency in pricing and call quality. Providers typically offer prepaid and collect call options, with varying rates depending on the recipient’s location.
Types of Calls Available
- Prepaid Calls: Prepaid calls are usually the most affordable option, and inmates pay for them using funds from their TRULINCS account.
- Collect Calls: Billed to the recipient, these calls are often more expensive, as they incur charges from the inmate calling service provider and any additional long-distance fees.
Security and Monitoring of Prison Phone Calls
Most inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded to uphold security within the federal prison system. This policy ensures that inmate communications align with prison regulations and not endanger public safety.
- Routine Monitoring: Federal prison staff monitor inmate calls, listening for any indication of illegal activity, escape plans, or threats. Advanced software helps detect suspicious language or code.
- Exceptions for Attorney-Client Privilege: Inmates may call their federal criminal defense lawyers with special arrangements to maintain confidentiality. These calls, often called “privileged calls,” are not recorded or monitored.
- Call Duration Limits: Federal prisons impose time limits on inmate calls to accommodate the limited phone resources, typically allowing only 15 minutes per call. These limits ensure equitable access for all inmates.
Cost of Inmate Calls
Federal prison phone call rates are regulated but can vary based on the type of call and the destination. The average cost per minute remains relatively low for local calls but can increase significantly for international or collect calls.
- Prepaid Call Rates: BOP guidelines set these rates, which are generally more affordable than collect calls.
- Collect Call Charges: Billed to the recipient, these calls may incur additional fees based on long-distance or international rates.
- International Call Rates: International rates apply for inmates needing to contact individuals abroad, making these calls considerably more expensive.
Per Minute Phone Costs
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) phone rates have seen adjustments over the years, aiming to make communication more affordable for incarcerated individuals and their families. As of January 1, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented new, reduced rates for inmate calls. Under these updated guidelines, audio calls cost $0.06 per minute, while video calls cost $0.16 per minute.
To give context to this change, here’s a comparison of previous rates for federal inmate calls:
| Type of Call | Domestic Rate | International Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Prepaid Local Call | $0.06 | |
| Prepaid Long-Distance Call | $0.21 | |
| Prepaid Call to Canada | $0.35 | |
| Prepaid Call to Mexico | $0.55 | |
| Prepaid International Call | $0.99 | |
| Collect Local Call | $0.15 | $0.75 |
| Collect Long-Distance Call | $0.30 | $1.50 |
These prior rates illustrate the substantial reduction in costs under the new FCC policy, making it more feasible for inmates to stay connected with loved ones.
Placing Inmate Phone Calls: Step-by-Step Process
- Adding Funds: Inmates or approved contacts add funds to the inmate’s TRULINCS account.
- Checking Contact List: Inmates must confirm that the contact is on their approved list before calling.
- Dialing the Call: Inmates dial from designated prison phones, following specific prompts.
- Call Connection: Once connected, inmates are reminded of monitoring policies, and calls automatically end after 15 minutes.
- Disconnect and Cooldown: Inmates must wait 30 to 60 minutes between calls to prevent monopolizing the phone system.
Inmate Calling Restrictions and Violations
The BOP enforces strict rules on inmate calls, and violations can lead to disciplinary actions, including losing phone privileges.
Common Restrictions
- Contact Limitations: Inmates cannot call unapproved numbers or change their approved contact list without permission.
- Abusive Language: Calls containing threats, profane language, or abusive remarks may be terminated.
- Violation of Call Duration: Calls exceeding the 15-minute limit will automatically disconnect.
Disciplinary Actions for Phone Misuse
Violations can lead to loss of phone privileges, restricted use of TRULINCS, or even solitary confinement in extreme cases. Additionally, attempted fraud, such as using code to evade monitoring, may result in criminal charges.
BOP Inmate Telephone Regulations
For those interested in a deeper look at the official policies governing inmate phone calls, please refer to the Bureau of Prisons Program Statement 5264.08: Inmate Telephone Regulations. This document outlines the framework and rules for inmate telephone privileges, including procedures for setting up phone accounts, restrictions on usage, and the responsibilities of both inmates and facility staff.
Key elements include:
- Purpose and Scope: The policy provides inmates with phone access to maintain family and community ties while ensuring security within BOP facilities.
- Security and Monitoring: Details on call monitoring practices to preserve institutional safety and special provisions for unmonitored attorney calls.
- Limitations and Disciplinary Actions: Guidelines on call restrictions, disciplinary procedures for misuse, and Warden authority to impose or lift restrictions based on inmate behavior.
Below is the complete Inmate Telephone Regulations program statement. This comprehensive resource is essential for understanding the rules and responsibilities associated with inmate telephone services.
Benefits of Inmate Phone Calls
Regular contact with family and friends can reduce stress, improve mental health, and aid reintegration. Inmate phone services offer several benefits:
- Reduced Recidivism: Studies show inmates who maintain close contact with loved ones are less likely to re-offend.
- Emotional Support: Contact with family can improve inmate mental health, easing the challenges of incarceration.
- Preparation for Reintegration: Inmates who stay connected are better prepared for life outside of prison, reducing the chance of re-offense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inmate Phone Calls
The cost of a phone call from a federal prison depends on the type of communication. As of 2025, phone rates for federal inmates are $0.06 per minute for audio calls and $0.16 per minute for video calls. Previously, costs varied based on location and whether the call was local or international.
No, prisoners in federal facilities cannot have mobile phones, cell phones, or other personal communication devices. Inmates can only access phones the prison provides, which are limited and monitored for security reasons.
To add money to an inmate’s phone account, you can use services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or online portals approved by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Ensure that you follow the specific facility’s instructions to avoid issues with the deposit.
To accept calls from an inmate, ensure your phone plan allows collect calls. Some facilities also allow pre-paid phone accounts, where you can add funds for an inmate to call you directly, making it easier to connect without collect call limitations.
Collect call rates may vary, but with the FCC’s latest updates, federal inmates pay a flat rate of $0.06 per minute for audio calls, whether prepaid or collected. This change significantly reduces previous costs.
To add money specifically for accepting calls from an inmate, you can set up a pre-paid account with the phone service provider used by the prison. This allows you to load funds directly for inmate calls and helps you manage your costs.
No, outside individuals cannot directly call an inmate. Only inmates can initiate calls, though you can fund their phone account to ensure they can reach you when allowed.
The time it takes for an inmate to make a call varies by facility, but generally, inmates can access phones once they are fully processed and their phone privileges are activated, which might take a day or two.
To send money to a federal inmate’s phone account, you can use payment methods specified by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, such as via Western Union or MoneyGram, using the inmate’s registration number for accuracy.
To communicate with an inmate by phone, ensure they have funds in their phone account to make calls. Inmates must initiate all calls, so it’s helpful to set up and fund an account in advance to facilitate contact.
Tips for Family Members Receiving Inmate Calls
- Know the Cost: Collect calls can be costly; consider adding funds to the inmate’s TRULINCS account to minimize expenses.
- Verify Caller Identity: Confirm that the caller is your family member, as some systems have received scams involving inmate calls.
- Prepare for Limited Time: Calls are capped at 15 minutes, so communicate concisely to make the most of the call.
Maintaining phone communication with loved ones is invaluable for federal inmates, and the BOP’s phone system offers a structured way for inmates to stay connected while ensuring security. With stringent monitoring, time limits, and costs, understanding the details of inmate phone calls can help families make informed choices, maximize communication time, and ensure adherence to BOP guidelines.
Published Apr 7, 2016 by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA | Last Updated by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA on Nov 2, 2024 at 3:54 pm