How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

Starting in September, CDCR is rolling out telephone calls, video calls (VideoConnect), and e-messages through Securus. This is the communication provider you'll use to stay in touch, even if you've used a different system before.

To receive video calls, you'll need the Securus app and its AdvanceConnect feature. AdvanceConnect lets you set up a prepaid account and add funds, which is required before you can receive VideoConnect calls.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Use Securus for telephone calls, videoconnects (video calls), and e-messages through CDCR.

• ✓ For videoconnects, use the Securus app’s AdvanceConnect feature to set up a prepaid account and add funds.

Before relying on a specific way to connect, confirm the current setup for your loved one's location. Phone calls, video calls, and e-messages are moving to Securus starting in September, but policies can change. If you're unsure what applies right now, check the current provider and availability for both the facility and your loved one's housing situation.

For video calls, confirm the practical details for AdvanceConnect: how to add funds, which payment methods work, and whether there are any limits on receiving calls. Those specifics aren't covered here, so it's worth checking before you set up your account.