How Phone Calls Work at Tennessee Prisons: ConnectNetwork, Rates, and Approved Phone Lists

TDOC doesn't allow inbound calls to inmates. You can't call the prison and ask to be connected - even in an emergency. All phone contact starts from the inmate's side through the prison phone system. Your job is to make sure your number can receive calls and that your account is funded if needed.

TDOC's inmate phone system runs through ConnectNetwork (powered by GTL). The current rate is $0.075 per minute (7.5 cents), effective July 1, 2024. Keep that number in mind when budgeting - it's what you'll use to estimate how far your funds will stretch.

ConnectNetwork lets you manage your account online, which makes tracking balances and payments easier than doing everything by phone or mail. If you're setting up for the first time, focus on getting your account established correctly - that way you're ready when your loved one can place calls.

Inmates in Tennessee prisons can have up to ten phone numbers on their approved telephone list. The system only allows calls to numbers on that list - so if you're not getting calls, check whether your number is actually listed. Numbers get bumped when phone plans change or the inmate needs to add someone else. Confirm the exact number (including area code) that should be on the list.

1. Have the inmate request the change - the inmate must initiate changes to the approved telephone list.
2. Route it through the unit team - changes are initiated through the unit team at the inmate’s designated facility.
3. Use the updated list for future calls - once the change is processed, the phone system will only allow calls to the numbers currently registered on the approved list.

• ✓ Write a request asking to be removed from the inmate’s approved telephone list
• ✓ Address the written request to the facility’s warden/superintendent
• ✓ Include enough identifying information for staff to match the request to the correct inmate and phone number

Practical Tips

• ✓ Use ConnectNetwork’s online account management tools to set up and manage the phone account
• ✓ Keep an eye on funding so you’re ready when calls come through
• ✓ Budget using the current ConnectNetwork rate of $0.075 (7.5 cents) per minute (effective July 1, 2024)

Phone policies and account details can get confusing, especially when you're dealing with approved-number rules and account setup at the same time. If something doesn't match what you're seeing - a rate question, ConnectNetwork account issues, or confusion about the ten-number limit - check the official TDOC phone information for current guidance.