Important note
Correctional communication rules, approved services, fees, schedules, and mail procedures vary by facility and can change. Confirm current requirements directly with the facility or its official communication provider before sending money, mail, photographs, or gifts. Unchained Connections is a public pen-pal directory; it is not a correctional agency, legal or medical service, or messaging provider, and it cannot guarantee that a service is available or that a message will be delivered.
Fees and availability: No price or service listed here should be treated as universal. Check the current facility-approved provider and correctional agency instructions before paying or scheduling.
Introduction:
It’s easier than ever to remain in touch with loved ones who are jailed in today’s increasingly digital environment. For prisoners, video visitation is an essential means of preserving emotional bonds with friends and family. This tutorial will explain the platforms, prerequisites, and regulations you need to be aware of if you’re wondering how to video chat with an inmate.
🔍 1. Understanding the Basics of Inmate Video Chat
Through planned video conversations, authorized persons may interact with prisoners through video visiting. These might occur from:
Home (remote visits) using a personal computer or smartphone, or
Onsite kiosks at the correctional facility.
The regulations of the particular prison or jail (local, state, or federal) and if they have collaborated with a video visiting service provider determine whether video chatting is available.
- Popular Inmate Video Chat Platforms
Platforms vary throughout facilities. The main suppliers and their offerings are as follows:
📱 1. Securus Technologies
Website: securustech.net
Offers video visitation, phone calls, eMessaging, and photo sharing.
Available on Android and iOS through the Securus app.
Requires user registration and scheduling visits in advance.
💻 2. ViaPath / ConnectNetwork (formerly GTL) / ViaPath Technologies (formerly ViaPath / ConnectNetwork (formerly GTL))
Website: gettingout.com or gtl.net
Provides video visits via GettingOut platform.
Mobile app and desktop versions are available.
Offers integrated messaging and photo features.
🖥️ 3. ICSolutions
Website: icsolutions.com
Offers scheduled video visits and messaging.
Mobile access via their app (for iOS/Android).
📞 4. JPay
Website: jpay.com
Offers video visitation, email, music, and money transfers.
Available in many state prisons.
Scheduled calls only, with pre-approved contact lists.
🔒 5. HomeWAV
Website: homewav.com
User-friendly video visitation app.
Pay-per-minute video calls.
Often used in local/county jails.
✅ 3. Steps to Set Up a Video Chat with an Inmate
Here’s a typical step-by-step process:
Step 1: Find Out the Facility’s Provider
Search the correctional facility’s website.
Call the facility if unclear, or search "[Facility Name] video visitation provider".
Step 2: Create an Account
Go to the provider’s website (e.g., Securus, GettingOut).
Register with your name, email, phone, and photo ID.
Add funds to your account if required.
Step 3: Get Approved as a Visitor
Visitor permission is required for some facilities.
Provide proof of identity and perhaps a background investigation.
Wait for approval (can take a few days).
Step 4: Schedule a Visit
Use the online portal or app.
Select a time slot.
The inmate may need to confirm the visit on their end.
Step 5: Join the Video Call
Log in a few minutes early.
Use a quiet, well-lit area with a good internet connection.
Follow on-screen instructions to start the call.
📋 4. Rules & Guidelines to Follow
To ensure successful and respectful communication, follow these general rules:
📌 Appearance & Behavior
Dress modestly (no revealing clothing).
Avoid inappropriate gestures or language.
Stay seated and in-frame throughout the call.
📵 No Recording or Screenshots
Most facilities strictly prohibit recording.
Violating this can lead to suspension of visitation privileges.
🕒 Be On Time
Late arrivals may forfeit your session.
No refunds for missed or canceled visits without notice.
🚫 What Not to Do
Don’t talk about escape plans, contraband, or anything illegal.
Don’t allow other people not on the approved list to join the call.
💰 5. Cost of Video Visitation
The majority of video visits cost money. Prices differ depending on the supplier and the facility:
Platform
Typical Cost
Securus
$5–$10 per 20 mins
ViaPath / ConnectNetwork (formerly GTL)/GettingOut
$3–$10 per session
HomeWAV
$0.50–$0.65 per minute
JPay
Around $4–$6 per 30 mins
Some facilities offer free weekly visits, especially for indigent inmates or during holidays. Check with the specific jail/prison.
🌐 6. Troubleshooting Tips
Use Chrome or Firefox on a desktop.
Test your camera and mic before logging in.
Allow pop-ups and camera access.
If the app crashes, restart your device and log back in quickly.
🧾 Final Notes
One effective strategy for preserving emotional ties and promoting recovery is video visitation. It’s crucial to thoroughly understand the policies of each institution before making video contact because they all have different policies.
The most accurate information may be obtained by getting in touch with the jail or prison personally if you’re ever unsure.
Official guidance
- Federal Bureau of Prisons: Communication with people in custody
- Federal Bureau of Prisons: Facility directory
- For state and local facilities, use the correctional agency’s official website and the facility’s current instructions.
This article is general information, not legal, medical, financial, or professional advice.