Setting Up Video Calls with Someone at a CDCR Facility: AdvanceConnect vs. Video Connect

Securus Video Connect is a web-based system for scheduling and joining video sessions with an incarcerated person. Friends, family, attorneys, and public officials all use it. You can join from the free Securus app or through a computer or tablet. This makes it easier to coordinate visits from work, home, or with family members in different locations.

AdvanceConnect handles the funding side. If your CDCR video visit requires prepayment, this is where you add money to receive prepaid video calls. In the Securus app, select AdvanceConnect to set it up and add funds. Getting this done early means you won't be scrambling with payment when you're trying to schedule or join a visit.

Video Connect handles permission and access. This is where you register so your account can actually do video sessions. In the Securus app, open Video Connect and complete registration by selecting "Permitir videollamadas" (Allow video calls). Skip this step, and you'll end up with an account that exists but isn't enabled for video visits.

Since Securus Video Connect is web-based, you can join from the free Securus app, a computer, or a tablet. The main requirement is internet access.

Before First Visit

• ✓ Open a Securus account (on the Securus website or in the Securus mobile app).
• ✓ In the Securus app, go to Video Connect and register by selecting “Permitir videollamadas” (Allow video calls).
• ✓ If your video visits require prepayment, select AdvanceConnect in the app to set up funding and add money for prepaid video calls.

A few details aren't covered here because they vary: exact device compatibility (specific operating systems or models), which CDCR facilities have Video Connect active and what time slots are available, and current fees or payment rules. For those specifics, check your Securus account (especially Video Connect and AdvanceConnect) and confirm directly with the CDCR facility where your loved one is housed.