How phone calls work from Louisiana prisons (collect calls, 20-number list, and Securus support)

People in Louisiana state prisons can only make outgoing calls - and those calls are collect. That means you, the person answering, get billed. Before you accept, you'll hear an automated message letting you know it's a collect call from someone at a state prison.

Calls are typically capped at 15 minutes. This limit helps facilities manage shared phone access, so expect the call to cut off right around that mark. You'll need to wait for another opportunity to reconnect.

Louisiana uses an approved "master phone list" system. Each person in custody can have up to 20 phone numbers on their list - covering family, friends, and legal contacts. If your number isn't on that list, the call won't go through.

The approved list can't be changed whenever someone wants. Updates happen on a quarterly basis, so if you've recently switched numbers or need to be added, you may have to wait for the next update window.

Securus Technologies handles phone service for Louisiana prisons. If you're trying to receive calls - especially on a cell phone - most setup and troubleshooting goes through Securus, not the facility itself.

• ✓ Set up a Securus account and provide your primary residence information if you want to receive calls on a cell phone.
• ✓ Don’t use a prepaid cell phone number - calls to prepaid cell phones are not allowed.

Having trouble receiving calls? Need help with billing, or want to block future calls from someone in custody? Contact Securus Customer Service at 1-800-844-6591.

Media outlets face additional restrictions. News organizations can't be added to an imprisoned person's phone list, and journalists are prohibited from sending money to people in prison.