Setting up phone calls from a Virginia prison: AdvancePay, call limits, and approved call lists
Setting up phone calls with someone in a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facility comes down to two things: the state's phone vendor and the rules controlling access. Here's how ConnectNetwork (GTL), the 20-minute call limit, and the approved call list work together.
ConnectNetwork, run by Global Tel*Link (GTL), operates the VADOC phone system. This is the company you'll deal with when setting up and funding an inmate's outgoing calls.
Expect calls to be monitored. All inmate calls are recorded except properly verified attorney calls. If you're sharing sensitive personal details, keep in mind that someone could listen later. Stick to what you're comfortable having on record.
VADOC caps calls at 20 minutes so everyone gets fair access to the phones. The call will cut off at that point, even if you're mid-sentence.
Inmates can only call numbers on their approved call list, and that list maxes out at 15 numbers. The inmate is responsible for adding and maintaining it. Not getting calls? First check whether your number was added and entered correctly.
The approved list can include both cell phones and landlines, so use whichever number you're most likely to answer.
Want to skip accepting collect calls each time? Set up a prepaid AdvancePay account instead. Family or friends deposit money ahead of time, and the funds are ready when the person in custody places the call.
For VADOC facilities, set up AdvancePay through ConnectNetwork (GTL). That's the same site you'll use to manage call funding going forward.
Need help setting up AdvancePay? ConnectNetwork (GTL) can be reached toll-free at 1 (800) 483-8314 for information or to set up a pre-pay phone plan.
- Use ConnectNetwork for VADOC calls: VADOC phone service runs through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link (GTL).
- Set up an AdvancePay prepaid plan: Create the prepaid phone (AdvancePay) account so you can receive calls from an inmate.
- Add money to the prepaid account: Deposit funds into the AdvancePay account so calls can go through.
- Call for support if you get stuck: Contact ConnectNetwork (GTL) at 1 (800) 483-8314 for information or setup help.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Ask your loved one to confirm your number is on their approved call list (the list can only have up to 15 numbers).
- ✓ If you have more than one number, be clear about which one they should add, since the approved list can include both landline and cell phone numbers.
Reminder about privacy: All inmate calls are recorded and monitored, except properly verified attorney calls.
Plan for a cutoff: Calls are limited to 20 minutes to allow inmates fair use of the phones.
If calls aren't coming through and you suspect an account issue, check the funding side first. You can deposit money into an AdvancePay account, and ConnectNetwork's toll-free line (1 (800) 483-8314) can help you set up or troubleshoot a prepaid plan.
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