How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

CDCR is transitioning inmate communication services from ViaPath to Securus. The account and instructions you used before may not work going forward, depending on where your loved one's facility is in the rollout. CDCR says it expects lower costs for calls and e-messages after the transition. That said, pricing and options can still vary based on where each facility is in the changeover. Treat any "expected" savings as a goal, not a guarantee. Confirm current rates through official CDCR and vendor information for your specific facility.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Check whether your loved one’s facility has already transitioned from ViaPath to Securus.
• ✓ If the facility has not transitioned yet, create your Securus account ahead of time so you are ready when the switch happens.
• ✓ If the facility has already transitioned, follow the facility’s current instructions for using Securus to communicate.

1. Go to the ViaPath/ConnectNetwork help area: Look for the section that covers account balances and refunds.
2. Submit a refund request for the unused balance: Follow their prompts to complete the request using your ViaPath account details.
3. Save your confirmation details: Keep any reference numbers, emails, or screenshots you receive, in case you need to follow up later.

Because this is an ongoing transition, confirm what applies to your loved one's facility right now. First, check whether the facility has completed the move from ViaPath to Securus. That determines which account you need and where you manage services. Next, verify whether you should already have a Securus account set up (CDCR advises families to create one before their loved one's facility transitions). Finally, confirm whether pricing or the way charges work for calls and e-messages has changed. CDCR communications indicate lower costs are expected, but check current details for your facility through official CDCR updates and the vendor's information.