How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

Most forms of contact require a background check. If you're applying for in-person visits, phone-related visiting privileges, or video visits, you'll pay a one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee (per Department Order 911).

There's one exception. If you only want to receive phone calls from an inmate (and you're not applying for in-person or video visits), you don't have to pay the $25 background check fee. You'll still need to apply for phone privileges through the regular application process.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Decide how you want to stay in contact (in-person, video, or phone calls only).
• ✓ If you are applying for in-person or video visits (or anything beyond phone-only), be prepared to pay the one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee and complete the application required under Department Order 911.
• ✓ If you will only accept phone calls, apply for phone privileges through the regular application process (no $25 fee required).
• ✓ Keep a copy of your application paperwork and any receipt or confirmation related to the $25 fee, if you paid it.

Before submitting anything, confirm the current policy with the facility. Ask whether the one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee still applies to adult visitors for your specific contact type, and whether it covers in-person, phone-related visiting privileges, and video. If you're phone-only, verify the current steps for applying through the regular application process. Ask about any additional requirements or exceptions that might apply to your situation.

1. Check the latest policy: Use the facility’s official information channels to confirm current rules for visits, video, and phone privileges.
2. Ask about the $25 fee for your contact type: Be specific about what you are applying for so you get the correct answer about the one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee.
3. If you are phone-only, confirm the phone-privileges application process: Verify what you need to submit through the regular application process and whether any paperwork is required.
4. Confirm payment details and get proof: If you are required to pay the $25 fee, ask what payment methods are accepted and keep a receipt or confirmation for your records.