The Real Phone Rules at Winston County Jail (Why Inmates Can't Receive Calls or Texts)
If you've been calling and can't seem to reach your loved one directly, you're not doing anything wrong — Winston County Jail just handles phone contact differently than you might expect.
Winston County Jail uses an outgoing-only call system. Your loved one cannot receive incoming calls - no matter how many times you dial. Instead, incarcerated individuals place calls out to approved phone numbers. Your job? Be ready to answer when they call.
Connecting through the jail's phone system requires the inmate's booking number. You can find it on the jail roster. Once you have it, call the jail and follow the automated prompts to reach the inmate call system. Enter the booking number when prompted. Without the correct number, you won't get through.
Phone calls cost money. Winston County Jail charges a per-minute fee for inmate calls. The exact rate isn't listed publicly, so if you're budgeting carefully, verify the current rate and billing setup before accepting or arranging calls.
There are also daily limits on calls. Inmates can only make a certain number of phone calls per day, so missed calls happen. It doesn't mean they aren't trying to reach you.
Note: Winston County Jail does not accept collect calls. If you’re waiting for a collect-call option, it won’t go through under this policy.
Texting isn't an option here. Winston County Jail doesn't allow inmates to send or receive text or voice messages - no jail messaging platform, no workarounds. If you need to share information, phone calls are your only real-time option.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Get the booking number from the jail roster and write it down exactly as shown.
- ✓ Keep that booking number handy before you call, since you’ll need it during the automated prompts.
- ✓ Expect per-minute charges for calls, and verify current pricing details with the sheriff’s office if you need the exact rate.
- ✓ If calls feel “inconsistent,” remember inmates only get a limited number of calls per day - ask your loved one to use one of those calls when you’re most likely to be able to answer.
Reminder: Collect calls aren't accepted, and texting or voice messaging isn't available. Phone calls are the only way to communicate in real time.
- Find the booking number - get it from the jail roster so you have the correct identifier.
- Use the inmate call system prompts - call the jail, follow the prompts, and enter the booking number when prompted to connect through the system.
- Confirm costs before you proceed - calls are billed per minute, so make sure you understand any charges tied to accepting the call or using the system.
Find an Inmate at Winston County Jail, AL
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
