ConnectNetwork vs. PIN Debit for Fluvanna Families: Which Payment Method Should You Use?
Getting calls from someone at Fluvanna Corrections Center? The best payment method depends on who you want funding the calls and how involved you want to be. Here's what families typically choose from—and the rules that might shape your decision.
VADOC phone calls usually come down to three options: a prepaid AdvancePay account through ConnectNetwork, an inmate-funded PIN Debit setup, or collect calls (with limits). AdvancePay is the family-and-friends route - you deposit money into a prepaid phone account that receives collect calls from your loved one. PIN Debit works differently. Calls get deducted from the inmate's own phone account, and funding that account requires their state ID. Collect calls can work short-term, but inmates may only place a limited number before the system prompts them to switch to prepaid. Whichever path you pick, you stay in control: you can always deny collect or debit calls if you don't want to accept them.
PIN Debit is tied to the inmate - call costs come out of their balance. Want to add money to that account through ConnectNetwork? You'll need their 7-digit state ID number. Without it, you can't complete the deposit. Get the correct number from your loved one before you try to fund the account.
Reminder: You can deny any collect or PIN debit call from an inmate. Funding an account doesn’t obligate you to pick up every time.
AdvancePay is ConnectNetwork's prepaid option for family and friends. You deposit money into a phone account so you can receive collect calls from a VADOC inmate. The catch? Inactivity. An AdvancePay account can go inactive and be forfeited after 180 consecutive days without use. Any call during that window resets the clock. If your balance does get forfeited, refunds aren't automatic - you'll need to contact customer service to request one.
Refund path: For an AdvancePay forfeiture/inactivity refund request, call customer service at 877-650-4249.
Collect calls are the easiest way to start - especially if nothing's set up yet - but they're not unlimited. Inmates may only be able to place a limited number before the system prompts them to use a prepaid method. And like the other options, you're never obligated to answer. Deny collect calls anytime they don't work for you.
Practical Pros Cons
- ✓ Choose AdvancePay (ConnectNetwork) if you want a prepaid account you control - you can deposit money into a prepaid phone account set up to receive collect calls from your loved one.
- ✓ Choose PIN Debit if you’re okay funding the inmate’s phone balance directly - deposits require the inmate’s 7-digit state ID number.
- ✓ Watch out for AdvancePay inactivity - the account may be forfeited after 180 consecutive days of inactivity; using the account resets the inactivity period.
- ✓ Know the refund route before you load money - refunds for an AdvancePay forfeiture/inactivity situation require calling customer service at 877-650-4249.
- ✓ Remember you can always say no - you’re free to deny any collect or PIN debit call.
Want the simplest setup on your end? AdvancePay is straightforward: fund a prepaid account through ConnectNetwork and receive collect calls. Just be honest about how often you'll talk - if months might pass between calls, keep that 180-day inactivity rule in mind. If your loved one prefers managing calls themselves, PIN Debit can work, but you'll need their 7-digit state ID ready for deposits. Still figuring things out? Collect calls bridge the gap, though expect the system to push toward prepaid options after a limited number.
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