Phone Calls from Pocahontas Correctional Center: 20-Minute Limit & How to Fund Them

Phone calls from Pocahontas Correctional Center are limited to 20 minutes per call. The cap exists so everyone gets fair access to the phones. Plan for shorter, focused conversations.

Virginia Department of Corrections phone calls are handled through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link (GTL). Calls are recorded and monitored, with one key exception: properly verified attorney calls aren’t recorded or monitored the same way. If you’re talking with your loved one, assume the call is monitored and keep the conversation appropriate for that setting.

When it comes to paying for calls, you’re usually choosing between collect calls, a prepaid (AdvancePay) account you fund as a family member or friend, or a PIN/debit-style option that uses available funds to place calls. For most families, the smoothest route is setting up and adding money to an AdvancePay-style prepaid account, so calls can go through without you having to accept collect charges each time.

Because the system runs through ConnectNetwork by GTL, that’s also where you handle the practical stuff: setting up the prepaid plan, adding funds, and getting help if something isn’t working. Once your prepaid account is funded through the GTL/ConnectNetwork system, it can be used to receive collect/debit calls without relying only on traditional collect billing.

1. Decide on a prepaid plan (AdvancePay) - this is the option that lets you deposit money up front so calls can be billed to your prepaid balance.
2. Set up your account through ConnectNetwork (GTL) - this is the platform VADOC uses for phone services.
3. Add money to the prepaid phone account - once it’s funded, it can be used for collect/debit calls.
4. Use GTL’s toll-free line if you need help - call 1 (800) 483-8314 for support with setting up or funding the prepaid account.

If you get stuck, focus on the operator: the VADOC inmate phone system is run through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link. For questions about prepaid phone funding (AdvancePay) or deposits, GTL’s toll-free support line is 1 (800) 483-8314.

Practical Tips

• ✓ Plan your main updates first - each call is capped at 20 minutes.
• ✓ Assume calls are recorded and monitored, and keep sensitive details off the phone.
• ✓ For legal conversations, make sure the call is handled as a properly verified attorney call.
• ✓ If calls keep failing or you can’t get billing to work, use the ConnectNetwork/GTL support channel tied to your funding method.