How to Schedule Your First Securus Video Visit with Someone in CDCR
CDCR communications are moving to Securus, and video visits are part of that rollout. Set up your account and settings now so you're ready to schedule and receive video sessions as soon as they go live.
Securus is now the communications provider for CDCR. Phone calls, video calls, and electronic messaging are being implemented starting in September. A little prep work now can save you a lot of stress later. Even if your loved one's facility isn't fully live yet, you can still get your Securus account set up and make sure your video calling options are enabled. Once video is available, you'll be ready to schedule your first visit instead of scrambling at the last minute.
Start by opening a Securus account. You can do this on the Securus website or in the Securus mobile app. For CDCR, an online Securus account is what unlocks video calling and electronic messaging when those services become available. (You may not need an online account for phone calls, but you will need one for video and messaging.)
- ✓ An email address you can access (for sign-in and account messages)
- ✓ A phone, tablet, or computer you can use consistently
- ✓ A few uninterrupted minutes to complete account setup
If you plan to receive video calls, you'll also want to set up AdvanceConnect. In the Securus app, AdvanceConnect is where you configure prepaid video calling and add funds. This step is easy to overlook, but it's essential. Securus directs families to use AdvanceConnect specifically for prepaid video call funding.
- Sign in to your Securus account - Use the website or the Securus mobile app.
- Open AdvanceConnect - Look for “AdvanceConnect” inside the app.
- Set it up and add funds - Follow the prompts to configure your account for prepaid video calls.
Next, turn on Video Connect. In the Securus app, click "Video Connect" and complete registration by selecting "Permitir videollamadas." That selection tells the system you want to receive video calls. Skip it, and you can end up funded and logged in but still unable to take the call.
- ✓ Your Securus account is created and you can sign in
- ✓ Video Connect is enabled in the app
- ✓ You registered by selecting “Permitir videollamadas”
- ✓ AdvanceConnect is set up and funded for prepaid video calls
Securus Video Connect is a web-based system that lets you schedule and join video sessions with an incarcerated individual from anywhere with internet access. Family members, attorneys, and public officials can all use it. You can typically connect using the free Securus app, a computer, or a tablet. Once you're set up, the routine is simple: schedule the session, then join at the scheduled time from your device.
Troubleshoot
- ✓ Confirm you can sign in to your Securus account (try the website if the app is giving you trouble)
- ✓ Double-check that you set up AdvanceConnect and added funds for prepaid video calls
- ✓ If video is available but you still can’t receive calls, go back into the app and review your video calling setup from the beginning
Note: This is part of CDCR’s move to Securus for communications. When you need the most up-to-date instructions for rollout timing and features, stick with official CDCR and Securus guidance.
For tablet implementation timelines and cost information, Securus points families to the CDCR tablets page. Bookmark that one as you're getting ready for video and messaging. Keep an eye on official CDCR and Securus pages for updates as the September rollout moves forward.
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