How to Set Up and Fund a ConnectNetwork Account for Virginia Inmate Calls

VADOC's inmate phone system runs through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link. For many families, this is how you add funds so calls go through without relying on limited collect calling.

Before you add money, know this: calls in the VADOC system are recorded and monitored. The exception is properly verified attorney calls. If you're discussing anything sensitive, assume someone could be listening.

You’re not locked into taking every call. If a call comes through as collect or debit and you don’t want to accept it, you can refuse it.

AdvancePay is the "family and friends" option. You set up a prepaid phone account through the ConnectNetwork website and add money so you can receive collect calls without surprise charges each time the phone rings.

PIN Debit works differently - it's tied to the inmate's own phone spending. In VADOC, inmates use a PIN Debit Account to call people on their approved list, with costs deducted from that account. To deposit to PIN Debit through ConnectNetwork, create your account by selecting "VA" as the state and "Department of Corrections." You'll need the inmate's 7-digit state ID number to send money to the right person.

Info Needed

• ✓ Select “VA” as the state
• ✓ Select “Department of Corrections” as the agency
• ✓ Inmate’s 7-digit state ID number (needed for PIN Debit deposits)
• ✓ A way to pay for deposits (your payment method)
• ✓ Your contact details (so your account can be created and managed)

Make sure your number is one your loved one can actually dial. VADOC calls go to numbers on the inmate's approved call list, which includes landlines and cell phones. The inmate manages that list, and it's capped at 15 numbers. If your number isn't on it yet, they'll need to add it before calls will connect.

1. Decide where you want the money to sit - Use AdvancePay if you want a prepaid account set up to receive collect calls; use PIN Debit if you want to deposit into the inmate’s phone account.
2. Create or sign in to your ConnectNetwork account - When prompted for location, choose “VA” and then “Department of Corrections.”
3. Add funds to the correct option - Follow the prompts to fund either your AdvancePay prepaid phone account or the inmate’s PIN Debit Account (you’ll need the inmate’s 7-digit state ID number for PIN Debit).
4. Get help by phone if you hit a snag - You can set up a pre-pay phone plan and get assistance through ConnectNetwork’s toll-free support line.

Prefer to talk to a person? Call ConnectNetwork toll-free at 1-800-483-8314 for help with setup or funding issues.

One thing to know before entering personal and payment details: ConnectNetwork/Telmate disclosed a data breach from August 2020. Personal information of thousands of Telmate users was exposed and accessed by unknown attackers. The notice states exposed information could include names and contact information, and in some cases more sensitive identifiers and financial details.

ConnectNetwork directs people to a ViaPath information document explaining what happened and how to protect your information. If you're concerned, look for that vendor-provided breach guidance and follow the steps listed there.

Once you're funded, keep two limits in mind. VADOC calls are recorded and monitored (except properly verified attorney calls), and each call cuts off at 20 minutes. Save private details for approved legal calls or other secure channels, and expect conversations to end at the time limit - even mid-sentence.