Phone accounts explained: PrePaid vs PIN Debit and how to set up a SmartInmate account
Getting phone calls set up shouldn't be this confusing, but the terminology trips people up. Here's what you need to know about the two common account types - PrePaid and PIN Debit - plus how to create a SmartInmate account. One important step first: check what Napa Corrections Facility actually accepts. Some facilities limit account types or require a specific provider.
A PrePaid Account (sometimes called "PPA") is linked to your phone number. When you add money to it, any inmate who's allowed to call that number can use the balance. Think of it as funding the phone line itself, not a specific person.
A PIN Debit Account works differently - it's tied to one specific inmate's PIN. Only that person can use the funds to make calls. You're funding their calling ability directly, and no one else can touch the balance.
- ✓ PrePaid (PPA): balance is associated with your phone number; calls to that number can use the prepaid funds if the inmate is allowed to call you.
- ✓ PIN Debit: balance is associated with one inmate’s PIN; only that inmate can spend it on calls.
Go with PrePaid if you just want your phone to accept calls and don't mind any permitted inmate using that balance. Choose PIN Debit when you want tighter control - your money supports one person's calls only, tied to their PIN.
Note: Not every facility offers both options. Napa Corrections Facility may restrict which account types are available or require a specific provider. Verify the rules before adding money.
- Go to SmartInmate and start registration - choose the option to create a new account.
- Create your login - set a username and password you’ll remember.
- Add your contact details - enter the email address and/or mobile number you want linked to the account.
- Verify your account - complete the verification step (typically through an email or text message).
- Finish setup before adding money - once verified, you can proceed to the funding options that match what your facility accepts. Creating an account is generally free and quick.
- ✓ An email address and/or mobile number you can access right now (for verification)
- ✓ A payment method ready to use when you’re sure you’re funding the correct option
- ✓ The inmate’s details you’ll need for matching the right person (especially for PIN Debit)
- ✓ A quick double-check that Napa Corrections Facility uses SmartInmate and which account type(s) it allows before you deposit
Before you deposit: Confirm which phone funding methods Napa Corrections Facility accepts and whether they work through SmartInmate. This ensures your money actually goes where you need it.
Phone systems vary widely between facilities. One jail might offer both PrePaid and PIN Debit; another might limit you to a single option or use a different vendor entirely. A quick check upfront saves you from funding an account that won't work the way you expected.
Wrap Up
- ✓ Confirm Napa Corrections Facility’s phone provider and which account types (PrePaid and/or PIN Debit) are allowed
- ✓ Pick PrePaid if you want your phone number funded; pick PIN Debit if you want to fund one specific inmate’s calls
- ✓ Create your SmartInmate account and complete email/text verification
- ✓ Have your payment method ready, and only fund after you’ve confirmed you’re using the correct account type and facility option
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