What Families Should Do Now About CDCR’s Switch from ViaPath to Securus

CDCR is switching communication services from ViaPath to Securus. For families, that affects how you stay in touch: phone calls, video calls, and electronic messages are all part of the transition. Even if your loved one's facility hasn't switched yet, getting set up early means you won't be scrambling when the change hits their location.

Start by figuring out what does and doesn't require a Securus login. You need to create a Securus account before your loved one's facility transitions if you want access to video calls and electronic messaging once they go live. However, Securus says you don't need an online account just to receive free phone calls. If calls are your only priority, you may not notice an immediate difference. Still, creating the account ahead of time is the safest move. It keeps you ready for video and e-messaging the moment they roll out at your loved one's facility, and it cuts down on the chance of missed connections during the handoff between providers.

1. Create your Securus account now - Do it before your loved one’s facility transitions so you are ready when services move over.
2. Confirm your account details - Make sure your account information is accurate so you can actually use features once they become available.
3. Connect the account to your situation - If the setup asks you to associate your loved one or their facility, follow the prompts so your account is ready for CDCR services as they roll out.

Still have money in a ViaPath account? You can request a refund for unused balances through ViaPath's website. CDCR points families to the ConnectNetwork help page for refund requests. If you're not sure whether you have a remaining balance, check now so the transition doesn't leave you chasing down funds later.

• ✓ Log in to your ViaPath/ConnectNetwork account and check whether you have an unused balance
• ✓ Gather the basics you will likely need (account email/username and any transaction details you can find)
• ✓ Use ViaPath’s website (the ConnectNetwork help page) to submit your refund request

Securus says it will implement phone calls, video calls, and electronic messages for CDCR starting in September. That's the broad timeline, but the exact rollout can vary by facility. Expect some uneven timing. Watch for updates tied to your loved one's specific institution so you know when each service actually goes live for them.

One detail worth knowing: you don't need a Securus online account to receive free phone calls. You do need one for video calls and electronic messages when those features become available. If video and e-messaging matter to your family, setting up the account early is the simplest way to avoid delays.

For the most reliable updates, check CDCR's family resources page for the rollout schedule and FAQs, and review Securus's CDCR information page for current service details. These two sources are your best bet for timing updates and next steps as the transition moves facility by facility.