5 Things to Know Before Your First Phone Call from Harris County Correctional Institution

Calls go through Securus, so set up your account before that first ring. You can create a pre-paid collect account or a direct bill account through the Securus Technologies website, or call 1-800-844-6591. Not sure which option works for you? Focus on the essentials: your phone number needs to accept the call, and there has to be a way to cover the charges. Getting this done early saves you from scrambling when your loved one finally gets to the phone.

Having an account isn't enough - your number also has to be on the offender's Call Allow List. Calls only go through to numbers on that list. Ask your loved one to double-check they've added your exact number, area code and all, before you start waiting by the phone.

Assume every call is being listened to. Calls may be monitored and recorded, so stick to support and practical updates. Avoid saying anything you wouldn't want replayed later.

• ✓ Call forwarding
• ✓ Three-way calling

You'll have a tight window. Calls max out at 25 minutes, and the line cuts off when time's up. Lead with the most important stuff first.

Know the cost upfront so you can fund your account. The rate is $0.06 per minute - that's $1.50 for a full 25-minute call. This same $0.06/$1.50 pricing applies across local, long-distance in-state, long-distance out-of-state, and domestic international calls.

Funding a pre-paid collect account? There's a deposit cap: $200.00 maximum per transaction. If you need to add more, you'll have to split it into multiple deposits.

Troubleshooting

• ✓ Confirm your Securus account is set up and funded (pre-paid collect or direct bill)
• ✓ Double-check that your number is on the offender’s Call Allow List

Done everything right but calls still aren't coming through? Contact Securus for help at the Securus Technologies website or by calling 1-800-844-6591. And remember - calls may be monitored and recorded, so keep any troubleshooting conversations simple and direct.