Setting Up and Using Virtual Visits for Livesay Inmates: Step‑by‑Step + Rules and Fees

Before you can schedule a virtual visit with someone at Livesay, you need to be on their approved visitation list. No approval, no virtual visit. The process usually starts with the inmate. SCDC has a specific form for virtual-visitation privileges, and the inmate needs to send it to you so you can fill it out.

1. Ask the inmate to send you SCDC Form 19-127 - it is titled “Request for Visiting Privileges for Virtual Visitation.”
2. Fill out the form completely - use accurate personal information so it matches your identification.
3. Submit the form the way SCDC instructs on the paperwork - follow the directions provided with the form.
4. Wait for approval before you try to schedule - virtual visits are only available to approved visitors.

Once you're approved, you'll need to create a GTL visitor account through SCDC's GTL virtual visitation portal. Pay close attention to the name fields. Your account name must match the name on the approved visitation list exactly. Nicknames can cause problems. If multiple people want to join the visit, each person needs their own account, even if you're all visiting from the same location.

• ✓ Use a computer, tablet, or Android phone
• ✓ Do not plan on using an iPhone (they are not compatible right now)
• ✓ Make sure each visitor has their own GTL account
• ✓ Enter your name exactly as it appears on the inmate’s approved visitation list (no nicknames)

1. Sign in and test your equipment ahead of time - check your camera, microphone, and sound before the day of your visit.
2. Be ready 15 minutes early - be in place in front of your device 15 minutes before the scheduled start time so you are not scrambling at the last second.

Virtual visits have a tight scheduling window. You need to book at least three days ahead, and you can't schedule more than seven days out. Time slots are based on the institution's existing visitation schedule, and your preferred time may not be available. Have a backup option ready. All virtual visits start on the hour. Pick a time you can reliably show up for, and make sure you're in a quiet, stable spot for the full session.

Virtual visitation pricing has changed over time. Older SCDC FAQs described a flat rate for a 50-minute virtual visit (no partial refund if either side ended early), with visits starting on the hour. SCDC also published a memo stating that, effective Feb. 1, 2025, the rate would drop to 16 cents per minute. That brings a 50-minute visit from $10 down to $8. The memo says visits will still be scheduled in 50-minute slots, but you'll be billed based on actual call length. Before you pay, confirm the current rate and billing method for your visit, since posted guidance can be updated.

Virtual visits are monitored, recorded, and can be reviewed at any time. If anything inappropriate happens during the call, the visit can be terminated immediately. The safest approach: treat it like you're sitting in a public visiting room. Keep your setting calm, keep the conversation appropriate, and make sure everyone on camera understands the rules before the call starts.

• ✓ Sexual behavior or actions that are sexual in nature
• ✓ Any display of nudity
• ✓ Inappropriate attire by the visitor
• ✓ Any activity or display of gang paraphernalia
• ✓ Any unauthorized individual (adult or minor) suddenly appearing during the virtual visit
• ✓ Use or display of drugs/alcohol, weapons, or related paraphernalia
• ✓ Any unlawful activity or depiction of unlawful activity

If you run into technical problems (trouble logging in, audio/video issues, connection drops), call GTL Visitor Support at 1-855-208-7349.

For visitation-list issues or name corrections, email VirtualVisitation@doc.sc.gov. You can also call 803-896-1838, press #1, and leave your name and a good contact number. For general questions about the application process, reach the Visitation office at visitation@doc.sc.gov or call the Visitation Inquiry Line at 803-896-1838 (press 1).