Vendor apps, kiosks, and ordering commissary or package items

Q

How can I get notified if someone is released?

In Madison County, release notifications are handled through VINE, not by detention staff. Madison County states VINE is available 24/7 for custody status changes and that you can register online or by phone, and it also states detention facility staff does not make release notification phone calls.

Q

Are inmate phone calls monitored or recorded?

Yes, at least some Alabama facilities explicitly state inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded. Madison County states all calls are subject to monitoring and recording, so plan your conversations with that in mind.

Q

Is there a free first-time call from an inmate?

Some facilities offer a short complimentary first contact call. Cullman County’s detention center information states the first time an inmate contacts you, you receive a free 60-second complimentary call.

Q

How do I schedule a visit and are there visit limits?

Scheduling is often done through a vendor site or system, and some facilities also provide a lobby kiosk for setting up accounts and scheduling. Cullman County states scheduling must be completed by the visitor using the listed phone or website and that a visitation kiosk in the lobby can be used; Madison County states inmates are allowed up to three visits a day and uses an online scheduling system.

Q

Can I send photographs in the mail?

In some Alabama jails, yes, but the photos may be scanned and delivered digitally instead of given as originals. Madison County states that all correspondence, including photographs, is delivered to inmates in digital form only, and it also requires you to address mail using the inmate’s name and booking number.

Q

How long will the facility keep original mail after scanning?

Madison County states it retains original personal mail items for seven days from receiving them after the mail is scanned and delivered digitally. It also states inmates may designate someone to retrieve originals within that seven-day timeframe.

Q

What are my options for depositing cash or cards for an inmate?

Some Alabama facilities accept deposits at an in-lobby kiosk and online. Cullman County states its lobby kiosk accepts exact cash ($5, $10, $20, or higher bills) and debit or credit cards.

Q

Are there limits on money orders or daily deposits?

Yes, limits can apply, especially for ADOC money order deposits. The ADOC Access Corrections money order form states the daily deposit amount cannot exceed $900.00.

Q

Can I get a refund for prepaid phone or commissary funds?

Refund rules depend on the system, and you usually need your transaction details. One facility FAQ states Chirper funds are not transferable and that refunds must be requested by contacting InmateSales, and it also states you must have your Transaction ID (the confirmation number unique to the transaction) when you contact them.

Q

Where can I find forms or instructions for visitor background checks or fingerprinting?

If your loved one is in a federal facility, the BOP provides a visitor questionnaire and release form (BP-A0629) that must be completed and returned to the institution address for visiting privileges to be considered. For fingerprinting, a Geneva County instruction sheet states fingerprints may be taken at the Geneva County Jail by appointment only and includes details about an FBI mail option for background checks.

Vendor apps, kiosks, and ordering commissary or package items

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