Inmate Phone Calls in Virginia DOC: How They Work and How to Pay

VADOC's inmate phone system runs through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link (GTL). To fund calls from the outside, you can deposit money into a prepaid phone (AdvancePay) account on ConnectNetwork. You can also call GTL toll-free at 1 (800) 483-8314 for information or to get set up.

Each call on the VADOC inmate (and CCAP probationer/parolee) phone system is capped at 20 minutes. A different time limit is only possible if the Director specifically approves it.

Your loved one can only call numbers on their approved call list, which can include both landlines and cell phones. The list maxes out at 15 numbers, and the inmate is responsible for keeping it current. If you change your number or switch phones, expect a delay until the inmate updates their list.

The most common option is a prepaid phone (AdvancePay) account, which you set up so you can receive collect calls from an inmate. VADOC directs families and friends to ConnectNetwork (operated by GTL) to make deposits. If you'd rather handle setup by phone or have questions about your account, GTL's toll-free number is 1 (800) 483-8314.

Collect calls may also be an option in VADOC, depending on the number being called and whether it accepts collect calls. You can always deny a collect or debit call when it comes through. VADOC notes that collect calling is limited to a small amount before the system prompts you to create or use a prepaid method (like AdvancePay or a PIN debit setup).

Prohibited Actions

• ✓ Placing incoming calls to an inmate. Do not try to call “into” the system and ask to be connected.
• ✓ Calling international numbers. Keep the approved list to domestic numbers only.
• ✓ Making 700, 800, 888, 900, and similar toll-free calls. Avoid toll-free numbers on the call list.
• ✓ Charging calls to credit cards, third parties, or any billing other than collect or pre-paid to the called party. Do not attempt alternative billing arrangements.
• ✓ Transferring calls to a third party. Stay on the line and do not connect additional people.
• ✓ Using call forwarding, call forwarding services, or answering machine services. Turn off call forwarding features before accepting calls.
• ✓ Calling pager numbers. Do not add pager-type numbers to the approved list.
• ✓ Calling pay phones. Do not use a pay phone number for calls.

1. Ask for the 7-digit state ID number - you need it to deposit into an inmate’s PIN Debit Account through ConnectNetwork.
2. Write it down in a safe place - treat it like an account number so you are not scrambling when you need to make a deposit.
3. Share it only with trusted helpers - if more than one person might deposit funds, make sure they have the correct 7-digit state ID number before they start.

If you plan to fund calls, set up your ConnectNetwork/GTL account early. This is especially helpful if your loved one is trying to call as soon as they can. Remember the 20-minute limit during your conversations, since calls cannot exceed 20 minutes unless the Director specifically authorizes a different limit. If calls aren't coming through, check whether your number is on the inmate's approved call list first. The inmate controls that list, and it can only include up to 15 numbers.