Penmate Inmate Support Guides
phone-only-visits-dakota-unit

If you only want phone calls (not visits): how the Dakota Unit process differs

Want to get approved for phone calls from someone at ASPC-Y Dakota II without visiting in person? You'll still go through the same application process as visitors. The main differences come down to the fee and what happens during processing.

• 2 min read • corrections.az.gov
If you only want phone calls (not visits): how the Dakota Unit process differs

"Phone-only" doesn't mean "no paperwork." To receive calls from an inmate at ASPC-Y Dakota II, you still need to submit the Application to Visit an Inmate - and it has to be done electronically. The phone-call approval process starts in the exact same place as regular visitation. You're just selecting a different end goal.

Note: If you do have any payments as part of the application process, they must be made electronically.

Adult applicants typically pay a one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee. Per Department Order 911, this applies to in-person visits, phone privileges, and video visits - unless you qualify for an exemption.

Here's the key difference for phone-only at Dakota II: if you only want to accept phone calls - not visits - you don't have to pay the $25 background check fee. But you still need to complete the regular application. Don't skip it just because the fee doesn't apply to you.

Even with the fee exemption, ADCRR runs criminal background checks on everyone - whether you're applying for visits or phone privileges. If you're thinking phone-only might skip the screening, it won't. Your status changes the fee, not the background check itself.

If you only want phone calls (not visits): how the Dakota Unit process differs

Processing and Notification

  • ✓ Submit any required supporting documents within 30 days of the application date.
  • ✓ If a payment applies to your application, make sure it’s received within 30 days as well.
  • ✓ If required documents (and any applicable fee) aren’t received within 30 days, the application is considered incomplete and won’t be processed.

ADCRR asks you to allow up to 60 days for processing, starting when they receive your payment (if required) and supporting documents. For phone-only applicants, you may not owe the $25 fee - but the clock still starts when the department has everything it needs to review your application.

One detail that catches people off guard: once a decision is made, the inmate gets notified - not you. It's their responsibility to tell you whether you've been approved. So if you're waiting and haven't heard anything, that's probably why.

Find an Inmate at ASPC-Y DAKOTA II

Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.

Exact spelling helps find results faster

Free to search · Used by families nationwide
Woman using phone to connect with loved one

More from ASPC-Y DAKOTA II

dakota-visitation-fee-how-to-pay

Applying for Visits at ASPC‑Y Dakota: The $25 Background Fee, Phone‑Only Exception, and Which Vendor Costs Least

Applying to visit someone at ASPC‑Y Dakota? Budget for a one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee per adult visitor. This fee applies to both in-person visits and phone privileges. One exception: if you only want to receive phone calls from an inmate (not initiate them), you can skip the $25 fee. You'll still need to complete the phone privileges application, though.

dakota-apply-timing-checklist

Before You Apply for Visits at ASPC‑Y Dakota: Timing, Deadlines, and Common Pitfalls

Timing matters if your loved one just entered the system or was recently transferred. ADCRR won't process visitation applications while an inmate is going through intake at Alhambra or Perryville. Before you submit anything, confirm where they're currently housed - especially if their status is still in flux.

dakota-mail-what-gets-scanned-originals

Before you mail: what gets scanned for Dakota Unit, how originals are handled, and how to get them back

Dakota Unit's digital mail system scans a specific list of items: letters, greeting cards, kid artwork and drawings, and photos. That's it. If you're considering sending something outside that list, don't - it won't be scanned. When in doubt, stick to written correspondence.