Penmate Inmate Support Guides
michael-unit-phone-calls-advanceconnect

Setting Up Phone Calls from Michael Unit: Registration, Costs, and What You Need to Know

Want to receive phone calls from someone at the Michael Unit? You'll need to get your number approved first. Once you're registered and set up to pay, staying connected gets a lot easier.

• 2 min read • securustech.net
Setting Up Phone Calls from Michael Unit: Registration, Costs, and What You Need to Know

Your phone number must be registered before you can receive calls from a TDCJ inmate at the Michael Unit. You'll also need the inmate's TDCJ ID number to complete registration. Don't have it? Look it up through the online inmate search, or call the unit at (936) 295-6371 or (800) 535-0283 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Need help with registration? Call TDCJ Inmate Technology at (866) 806-7804. Phones are answered Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Who Can Register

  • ✓ You must be the registered owner of the telephone number.
  • ✓ You must be at least 18 years old.
  • ✓ You must agree to allow the inmate to call your number.
  • ✓ You must agree not to forward calls, make three-way calls, or use a speakerphone on calls from the inmate.

TDCJ calls only go through to certain phone types: home landlines, post-paid cell phones, and pre-paid cell phones. You can't receive calls on internet-based phone services, 800 numbers, business lines, pay phones, or international numbers. If your number falls into a blocked category, registration won't work - even if you try.

As of December 1, 2025, Securus requires a funded AdvanceConnect account to pay for phone calls. Want uninterrupted service? Set up your AdvanceConnect prepaid account and add funds before that date.

Running into problems? TDCJ Inmate Technology can help with registration issues or numbers that won't go through - call (866) 806-7804, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you just need the inmate's TDCJ ID, use the online inmate search or call (936) 295-6371 or (800) 535-0283 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

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