How to Get on an Inmate’s Visitor List at Branchville — and Why You Can’t Check by Phone
Trying to visit someone at Branchville? Two things have to happen first: you need to be on the offender's approved visitors list, and you need ViaPath approval before you can schedule. Here's what trips people up—the facility won't confirm your list status over the phone. Your fastest path forward is working directly with the person you're visiting.
At Branchville (Indiana DOC), you can't just show up and ask to visit. Your name has to be on that offender's visitors list first. Think of it as the gatekeeper step - if you're not on the list, you won't get into the visiting area. Doesn't matter how far you've traveled.
The offender is the one who can add you. IDOC's visitor guidelines explain that offenders receive information on how to put someone on their list. If you're unsure whether you've been added, you're supposed to contact the offender - not the facility. So your next move is straightforward: reach out to your loved one and ask them to add you. Then wait for the approval process to finish before trying to schedule anything.
- ✓ Ask the offender to add you to their visitors list.
- ✓ Register for a ViaPath account.
- ✓ Wait until you’re approved in ViaPath before you try to schedule an in-person visit.
Calling the facility won't get you an answer on list status. IDOC's guidance is clear: if you're uncertain whether you're on someone's visitors list, contact the offender - that information can't be given over the phone. Want to know if you're approved? Confirm directly with your loved one and make sure your ViaPath approval is in place.
- Confirm with the offender - Ask them directly whether they added you to their visitors list; that’s where list changes start, and it’s also where you’re told to check if you’re unsure.
- Check your ViaPath status - You must be registered for a ViaPath account and approved before you can schedule in-person visits.
- Double-check the time zone in ViaPath - ViaPath scheduling is listed and observed in Eastern Time, so make sure you’re not accidentally selecting (or missing) a slot because you’re thinking in a different time zone.
Checklist First Visit
- ✓ Confirmation from the offender that you’re on their visitors list.
- ✓ A ViaPath account that’s registered and approved (approval is required before you can schedule).
- ✓ A valid photo ID if you’re 16 or older (you must present valid ID each visit).
- ✓ One of the accepted ID types: valid driver’s license from your state of residence, valid state photo ID card from your state of residence, valid photo military ID (active duty only), or a valid passport.
ID reminder: The DOC only accepts a valid driver’s license, valid state photo ID, valid active-duty military photo ID, or a valid passport for visitor identification.
Phone calls can still help with general facility logistics or policies. Just don't expect staff to verify your visitors-list status - IDOC's guidelines say that can't be given over the phone. For list questions, reach out to the offender you want to visit.
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