Calling and Messaging Inmates: How to set up accounts and costs
The setup you need depends on where your loved one is housed. In Montana Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities, tablet communication starts with the inmate: they send an email invitation first, then you create a GettingOut account after receiving it. Some county facilities use NCIC for messaging and video visits instead. Lewis and Clark County Detention Center, for example, uses an NCIC messaging system where messages cost $0.25 each, picture/video messages cost $0.35 each, and video visits cost $0.25 per minute.
- Confirm the system the facility uses. Montana DOC tablet communications use GettingOut invitations, while some county detention centers use NCIC for messaging and video visiting.
- For Montana DOC tablets, wait for the inmate’s invitation. Tablet communication starts with an email invite from your loved one, then you create your GettingOut account.
- For NCIC messaging, create an NCIC account. Some facilities use NCIC for electronic messages, photos, and documents.
- For NCIC video visits, create an NCIC video visit account. An NCIC account is required for visitors to schedule and conduct video visits.
- Fund communication time when needed. Some facilities allow you to add funds to a communications account through NCIC, and Yellowstone County provides an NCIC phone number for funding help.
Tip: Some Montana facilities document free remote visiting. Yellowstone County states inmates get two free remote visits per week using a tablet or kiosk.
Common Questions
Q
Do I need a special account to receive tablet emails or to message an inmate?
Yes, sometimes, and it depends on the system the facility uses. Montana DOC tablet communication is initiated by the inmate through an email invitation, and you create a GettingOut account after you receive that invite. For video visits in some county facilities, Yellowstone County states an NCIC account is required to visit with an inmate.
Q
Are there free calls or free visits included for inmates?
Some facilities document free remote visits. Yellowstone County states all inmates get two free remote visits per week using a tablet or kiosk. Confirm what is included at your loved one’s specific facility, since programs and policies can differ.
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