How to schedule a visit with an inmate at Neal Unit using the TDCJ Online Scheduler

You'll need to create your own visitor account in the TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler. Staff can't do this for you, so handle it before you try to book anything.

Start by entering your email address. Check your inbox for a message with a 7-digit validation code and a link - you'll need both to finish setting up your account.

The scheduler will walk you through a background questionnaire during setup. If anything gets flagged as incomplete, go back and fill in those fields. Otherwise, you'll hit a wall when trying to add the inmate or pick a visit time.

Take your time filling out your visitor profile. The system uses these details to identify you, so double-check your name and required fields before moving on. Small typos can slow down approval and scheduling.

1. Open your Visitor Profile - sign in and go to the area where you manage inmate relationships.
2. Search for the inmate - enter the inmate’s TDCJ/SID number exactly as listed in TDCJ records.
3. Select your relationship - choose the relationship option that fits you, then submit the request so it can be reviewed.

After submitting the inmate request, you'll wait for TDCJ staff to verify your relationship with the inmate. You won't be able to schedule until that's confirmed and the system shows the inmate as eligible.

The system may show different visit types depending on the inmate's status and what the unit allows. Traveling a long distance? TDCJ rules include an extended visit option: the warden (or designee) may permit visits up to four hours for visitors traveling more than 250 miles one way, space and time permitting.

1. Click “Schedule Visit” next to the inmate’s name - this is where you’ll see available appointment options.
2. Choose the visit type (if prompted) - pick from the options shown for that inmate.
3. Review open dates and time slots - select the day and time that works for you.
4. Confirm the appointment details - verify the information on the confirmation screen before you submit.
5. Save your confirmation - keep a record of the scheduled visit details so you can reference them later.

A blank Schedule Visit button - or a message telling you to call the unit - means the visit can't be booked online right now. This can happen even after your relationship is verified, or if the inmate isn't approved for visits. When the scheduler won't let you pick a slot, call Neal Unit to find out what's needed.

• ✓ Inmate’s full name
• ✓ Inmate’s TDCJ/SID number
• ✓ Your full name (as it appears on your visitor account)
• ✓ Your phone number and email address
• ✓ A few date/time options you can make (so staff can tell you what’s possible)

Watch for age-related prompts during scheduling. Some inmates are restricted from having visitors aged 17 or under. If the scheduler asks whether your visit will include any children under 17 years of age, that means no one 17 or under can attend.

There's one narrow exception: the inmate's own children who are 17 or under may be allowed to visit if a Non‑Victim Child Affidavit is on file in the inmate's classification folder. If that applies to you, get the paperwork sorted before trying to book.