How to Register for Video Visits at Hood County Jail (Step-by-Step)

If you’re trying to start a video visit with someone at Hood County Jail from home, this is for you. Below, you’ll get a quick, step-by-step path: what you need on your device, how to create a Friends & Family (Telmate) account, how “Visit Now” works, what to expect with payment after the visit, and who to contact if something doesn’t go through.

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• ✓ An internet-connected device
• ✓ A web camera
• ✓ A microphone
• ✓ Google Chrome (as your browser)

Before you try to connect, make sure there are enough funds available for the visit. A video visit can go through as long as either the inmate’s account or your Friends & Family (Telmate) account has funds - at least one of them has to. You won’t be charged upfront; payment is collected only after the visit happens.

1. Go to the Telmate scheduling site - open schedule.telmate.com.
2. Sign in or create your account - use the sign-in option if you already have one, or choose the option to create a new account.

1. Read the agreement - during setup, you’ll be shown an agreement that you need to review.
2. Check each statement - click the check boxes next to each statement.
3. Click “Accept” - this completes the agreement step so you can move forward.

1. Choose who you want to visit - after you sign in, select the person you’d like to visit with.
2. Find the Online section - this is where the on-demand option shows up.
3. Click “Visit Now” - if the inmate is available, the visit should start shortly.

“Visit Now” is the on-demand option - when you click it, you’re trying to start a visit right then. If the inmate is available, the visit starts shortly. If they’re not available, you’ll get a notification, and you can schedule a visit for later instead.

Here’s the simple rule on who pays: the person who initiates the video visit is the default payer. So if you start the visit and you have available funds, you’re responsible for the payment.

A visit can only happen if there are enough funds in at least one place - either the inmate’s account or your Friends & Family (Telmate) account. The charge doesn’t hit upfront: payment is collected only after the visit occurs, and you’re billed for the minutes actually used.

Don’t forget about inactivity rules if you keep money on your Friends & Family (Telmate) account. The account becomes inactive and is subject to forfeiture after 180 consecutive days of inactivity. Using the account at any point resets that inactivity period. If you need a refund, call Telmate customer service at 866-516-0115.

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• ✓ Use Google Chrome (not a different browser)
• ✓ Confirm your camera and microphone are connected and allowed (check permissions)
• ✓ Make sure your device is online with a stable internet connection

If you’re running into billing or prepaid account problems connected to Hood County Jail services, you can call 877-650-4249 for billing and prepaid issues, or 800-483-8314 for Auto Prepaid Service. For general jail questions, Hood County Jail is available 24/7 at 817-579-3333.