How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

Securus offers three ways to connect with someone at a CDCR facility: telephone calls, video calls, and electronic messages. At California Medical Facility, these are the communication options available through the Securus system.

Securus encourages families to create an account, but whether you actually need one depends on how you plan to communicate. You don't need an online account to receive free telephone calls. For video calling and electronic messaging, you'll need a Securus account when those services are available. This guidance comes from Securus and applies to CDCR communications specifically. Fees, availability, scheduling, and facility rules can vary, so confirm current details for your loved one's location.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Confirm that Securus is the communications provider for your loved one’s CDCR facility.
• ✓ If you only plan to receive telephone calls, know that Securus says an online account is not required for free telephone calls.
• ✓ If you want video calls or electronic messaging, set up a Securus account and follow the prompts for those services.
• ✓ Have the inmate’s identifying details and the facility name ready before you contact the facility or start account setup.

1. Confirm the vendor: Ask the facility whether Securus is the current provider for phone, video, and electronic messages.
2. Verify call costs at this location: Securus states free telephone calls can be received without an online account, but you should still confirm whether any charges or limits apply for your specific situation.
3. Confirm what requires an online account: If you want video calls or electronic messages, verify that a Securus online account is required and ask what steps you must complete first.
4. Ask about any facility-level requirements: Confirm whether the facility has its own approval, scheduling, or identification rules that affect calls, video visits, or messaging.