Why Inmate Phone Calls Drop and How to Block Unwanted Calls from Snohomish County Jail

Jail phone systems work differently than regular calls. Inmates can call out, but they can't receive incoming calls - so there's no way to dial in and have them answer. For billing, you've got two options: collect calls or pre-paid debit. Every call also has a hard time limit, meaning the line cuts off automatically when time runs out, even mid-sentence.

Here's something else to know: the person calling you might not be using a wall phone. General population inmates (not those in maximum security) have individual smart tablets that can make calls when headphones are plugged in. This means they can reach you even while secured in their cells.

Common Triggers

• ✓ Trying to add a third person (3-way call) - The inmate phone system is programmed to block 3-way calling, and attempts to create a 3-way connection can trigger an automatic disconnect.
• ✓ Transferring the call, putting it on hold, or using/answering call waiting - Any of these actions can look like call manipulation to the system and may cause the call to drop.
• ✓ Pressing numbers on the keypad during the call - Touch-tone key presses mid-call can trigger a disconnect, even if you’re just trying to navigate your phone.
• ✓ Letting the line go quiet - If the conversation stops and there’s a period of silence, the system may disconnect the call.

Want to stop receiving calls from an inmate at Snohomish County Jail? You'll need to contact Smart Communications, the jail's phone provider. Call them at 1-727-349-1561 or use their online contact form to request a block on your number. One important detail: only the person whose name is on the phone account can unblock it later, so make sure the account holder submits the request.

1. Contact Smart Communications - Call 1-727-349-1561 or send a message through their contact form.
2. Ask to block inmate calls to your number - Tell them you want your phone number blocked from receiving calls from Snohomish County Jail.
3. Make sure the number’s owner makes the request - Once blocked, only the person the number is listed to may unblock it later.

Practical Tips

• ✓ Use a touch-tone phone that emits tones when buttons are pressed.
• ✓ Don’t transfer the call, put it on hold, or use/answer call waiting while you’re connected.
• ✓ Keep the conversation going; long pauses or silence can trigger a disconnect.
• ✓ If billing is a problem, remember calls are only collect or pre-paid debit - so you may need the pre-paid option to keep calls going.