How to Set Up Your First Phone Call with Someone at Augusta Corrections Center (VADOC phone system)

Augusta Corrections Center follows Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) phone rules - specifically Operating Procedure 803.3, which governs inmate telephone services across all VADOC facilities. That's why the same call-list requirements, monitoring policies, and time limits apply here.

Augusta's inmate phone system runs through ConnectNetwork, operated by Global Tel*Link. This is the company you'll work with to set up billing and ensure your number can receive calls.

You have two options for receiving calls: set up a ConnectNetwork prepaid account (called AdvancePay) online, or call customer service directly. VADOC lists a toll-free number for ConnectNetwork at 1 (800) 483-8314 if you need help getting started.

Info Needed Before Start

• ✓ Your loved one’s 7-digit state ID number (you’ll need it to make deposits through ConnectNetwork)
• ✓ The phone number you want them to call, and whether it’s a landline or a cell number (VADOC allows calls to both, as long as the number is on their approved call list)
• ✓ A quick plan with your loved one about which number they should add and keep on their list (they’re responsible for maintaining that list)

1. Decide how you want to pay for calls - You can set up a prepaid phone account (AdvancePay) through ConnectNetwork, or you can accept collect calls (if your number accepts collect calls).
2. Create your ConnectNetwork account (or call to set it up) - Use ConnectNetwork to set up your prepaid plan, or call ConnectNetwork toll-free at 1 (800) 483-8314 if you’d rather do it with a representative.
3. Have the 7-digit state ID ready - If you’re making deposits through ConnectNetwork, you’ll need your loved one’s 7-digit state ID number to complete the setup.
4. Fund the account (if you’re using prepaid) - Once your account is set up, add money so the calls can go through when your loved one dials out.
5. Test it with the first call - After your account is active, the simplest “confirmation” is a successful first call. If the call still won’t connect, the next step is usually checking call-list approval/consent (covered below).

Your billing setup is only half the equation. Calls won't connect unless your number is on your loved one's approved call list. In VADOC facilities, inmates manage their list through an auto-enrollment system by dialing *44 - they're limited to 15 numbers total. One more step: your number won't go active until you (the phone subscriber) grant consent through an automated process. That approval can take several days.

Keep your first call focused. VADOC limits calls to 20 minutes unless the Director authorizes an exception, so conversations can end abruptly even when you feel like you're just getting started.

Assume everything is recorded. VADOC monitors and records calls on the system - the only exception is properly verified attorney calls. If you're discussing anything sensitive, it's not private.

If your loved one can't place calls due to a PIN issue, they can report it directly. VADOC allows inmates to report PIN problems to the contract vendor hotline by dialing #21.

For issues on your end - account setup, adding funds, or whether your number can receive calls - contact the vendor directly. ConnectNetwork (operated by Global Tel*Link) handles the VADOC phone system. Reach them toll-free at 1 (800) 483-8314.