How to Register a Phone to Receive Calls from an Inmate (Michael Unit / TDCJ)

To register your phone number to receive calls from someone housed at the Michael Unit (TDCJ), you’ll need the inmate’s TDCJ ID number. That ID is what the phone system uses to match your phone number to the correct person - without it, you can’t complete registration.

• ✓ Look up the TDCJ ID using the TDCJ online offender search
• ✓ Call (936) 295-6371 to ask for the TDCJ ID
• ✓ Call (800) 535-0283 to ask for the TDCJ ID

Once you have the TDCJ ID, you can register your phone number to receive calls. TDCJ offers both online enrollment and phone registration - either way, you'll need the inmate's TDCJ ID number to complete setup. Don't have the ID yet? Grab it first through the online offender search or by calling (936) 295-6371 or (800) 535-0283. Registration goes much faster when you have that number ready.

• ✓ Set up an AdvanceConnect prepaid account
• ✓ Add funds so the account is funded (this will be required starting December 1, 2025)
• ✓ Make sure the funded AdvanceConnect account is the one you’re using to pay for calls to your registered phone number

Running into ongoing problems with calls or vendor services? TDCJ has a formal complaint process. Submit the ITS Contact Form online, or reach out directly to the TDCJ Inmate Technology Services Contract Manager at offenderphones@tdcj.texas.gov. Use this route when normal customer-service channels aren't resolving the issue.

1. Try the TDCJ phone help line during business hours - Call (866) 806-7804, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for phone system assistance.
2. Submit the ITS Contact Form - Use it to document the problem and request help with the vendor service.
3. Email a written complaint if needed - Send details to offenderphones@tdcj.texas.gov so it reaches the TDCJ Inmate Technology Services Contract Manager.