Virtual Visits with Allendale Inmates: How to Set Up, Scheduling Windows, Device Tips, and the Fee Issue
Setting up a virtual visit at Allendale Correctional Facility is straightforward once you know the rules that trip people up—who can schedule, how far ahead you can book, which devices work, and what you'll pay.
You must already be on the inmate's approved visitation list to request a virtual visit. If you're not on that list, the system won't let you schedule.
Virtual visits run through GTL. Create your account at scdoc.gtlvisitme.com/app - and each visitor needs their own account, even if you plan to sit together during the call. If multiple family members want to join, have everyone register separately ahead of time.
Note: The name on your GTL account has to match the inmate’s approved visitation list exactly. Don’t use nicknames.
Allendale has a tight booking window: schedule at least three days ahead, but no more than seven days in advance. Try outside that range and the system won't accept your request.
Virtual visits work on a computer, tablet, or Android phone. iPhones aren't compatible right now. If your household is all Apple phones, line up a computer, tablet, or Android device before your visit date.
ID check: The visitation coordinator will ask approved visitors age 10 and older to show a photo ID. Approved children under 10 must have a certified long-form birth certificate for identification.
Virtual visits are recorded and reviewed. If something inappropriate happens, staff can end the call immediately. Treat it like an in-person visit where someone may be watching.
Rule violations carry consequences beyond a single ended call. Inmates who break visitation rules can face disciplinary action under SCDC Policy OP-22.14. Visitors can also lose access - prohibited conduct may lead to suspension or termination of virtual visitation privileges.
Warning: Because visits are recorded and reviewed, inappropriate behavior can end the visit on the spot - and it can also lead to discipline for the inmate or a suspension/termination of your virtual visiting privileges.
Costs can be confusing because different documents say different things. The SCDC Virtual Visitation FAQ lists a flat $10 for a 50-minute visit. That same FAQ says visits start on the hour and you're charged when the visit begins.
A separate SCDC memo describes a switch to per-minute billing: $0.16 per minute effective Feb. 1, 2025, which would make a 50-minute visit $8. The memo says visits would still be scheduled in 50-minute slots but billed based on actual length.
Before you pay: Check the price shown in the GTL scheduling portal for your visit. Confirm whether it's a flat $10 for 50 minutes or per-minute billing so there are no surprises.
Tech Checklist Contacts
- ✓ Create your GTL visitor account at scdoc.gtlvisitme.com/app (each visitor needs their own account)
- ✓ Make sure your GTL account name matches the inmate’s approved visitation list exactly (no nicknames)
- ✓ Use a compatible device: computer, tablet, or Android phone (not an iPhone right now)
Help: For technical problems with virtual visitation, contact GTL Visitor Support.
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