Scheduling in advance and using vendor portals for visits
For ODRC facilities that use ViaPath for visit reservations, approval usually comes first. ODRC's visitation information says you must apply and be an approved visitor before you can register with ViaPath to make a reservation. Once you're set up, the ViaPath scheduling portal lets you reserve a time in advance, and visits are confirmed instantly through the portal. That takes some of the uncertainty out of the process.
Warning: If you use AdvancePay through ConnectNetwork/ViaPath, watch your account activity. The company warns that AdvancePay accounts can become inactive and be subject to forfeiture after 180 consecutive days of inactivity. Refunds are handled through customer service.
If you're scheduling visits that involve children, read the portal rules carefully. ODRC policy states that visitors designated as an "approved minor" in DOTS Portal cannot put money on an incarcerated person's account or conduct video visits without a parent or legal guardian. This affects both visit planning and how you handle deposits when a child is an approved visitor.
Common Questions
Q
Can a visitor bring money, packages, or printed materials directly to an incarcerated person during a visit?
No. ODRC visitation materials state visitors are not permitted to deliver packages, correspondence, money, or printed materials directly to incarcerated people, and those items must be processed through the mail under policy. Plan to use the facility’s approved mail and money processes, and do not try to hand anything over during visiting.
Q
Are there alternatives to in-person visits, and do they cost anything?
Yes, some Ohio facilities use vendor portals to schedule and manage visits, including video options. One county example (Miami County) states on-site video visitation is provided at no cost to the visitor or the inmate, and ODRC facilities may use portals like ViaPath to manage visits. Check the facility’s posted visiting/video hours and the portal’s terms for your specific location.
Q
How do I become an approved visitor and what information is required?
You will need to complete the required visitor forms for the system your loved one is in, and you must provide a legible copy of your photo ID for ODRC applications. ODRC’s visiting packet warns that failing to answer questions or falsifying information will result in disapproval. Visitor forms can also include background-check related authorizations, depending on the system and facility.
Q
Can someone on probation or parole visit an incarcerated person?
Yes, but additional permission may be required. ODRC’s visiting packet says that if you are on probation or parole, you must include a letter from your probation/parole officer granting permission to visit when you apply.
Find an Inmate
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
