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Before Your First Call from Douglas County Jail: a checklist for family and friends

That first call can come when you least expect it. Set up your SmartInmate account now, figure out funding, and know what to avoid—then you'll be ready when the phone rings.

• 2 min read • dcso.com
Before Your First Call from Douglas County Jail: a checklist for family and friends

Douglas County Jail uses Smart Communications (SmartInmate) for phone and video calls. You'll need to create an account before your loved one can reach you - miss that first call without one, and a simple setup turns into a scramble.

  1. Create your SmartInmate account - Douglas County Jail uses Smart Communications (SmartInmate), and you’ll need an account in place for calls to connect.
  2. Use the in-account “Contact Us” if anything doesn’t work - If you can log in, go to “Contact Us” and “Submit a Message.” It’s the fastest way to get your issue processed.
  3. Call Customer Care if you can’t resolve it online - Smart Communications Customer Care is available 24/7 at (888) 253-5178.

Tip: If you can log in, sending a message through the account “Contact Us” tool is the fastest support route. Customer Care is also available 24/7 at (888) 253-5178.

Calls depend on whether your loved one has money to use. At Douglas County Jail, Adults in Custody (AICs) pay for phone calls from their AIC trust account.

  • ✓ Deposit funds online at smartinmate.com
  • ✓ Deposit funds by phone at (727) 349-1561 (daily, 7:00 am–12:00 midnight EST)
  • ✓ Deposit funds at lobby kiosks in the Justice Building
  • ✓ Deposit funds by U.S. mail to the Smart Communications Deposit Center

Note: Adding funds so an AIC can place calls? Build in time for the deposit to clear - especially if you're trying to be ready for a scheduled call.

AICs who aren't restricted can call approved contacts that aren't blocked. Each call is limited to 20 minutes, so cover the most important updates first.

Assume every call is recorded. The only exceptions are calls to the AIC's attorney or verified clergy. Keep conversations focused on support, logistics, and next steps.

Keep calls clean and straightforward to protect your ability to stay in contact. Third-party calls, letting someone else use your account, or helping connect an AIC to a blocked number can get your phone number blocked.

Warning: If you allow third-party calling or share your account, you can lose phone access - your number may be blocked from future calls.

Having trouble with your Smart Communications account? The fastest fix is usually inside the account itself - go to

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