Securus Phone Calls: Understanding The Costs

Understanding Securus phone call costs is crucial for anyone looking to stay connected with incarcerated loved ones. Dealing with incarceration is tough, and communication shouldn't break the bank. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Securus phone call rates, factors affecting the price, and tips to make those calls more affordable. Let's dive in!

What is Securus Technologies?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of costs, let's talk about who Securus Technologies actually is. Securus is a major provider of communication services for incarcerated individuals. Basically, they help people in correctional facilities connect with their families and friends on the outside. Think of them as the bridge that keeps those vital relationships going during a challenging time.

They offer a range of services, including phone calls, video visitation, email, and even tablet programs. These services can be a lifeline for both the inmates and their families, helping to maintain morale and support rehabilitation. However, these services come at a cost, and understanding those costs is super important.

Securus operates in thousands of correctional facilities across North America, serving a huge number of inmates and their families. Their reach is vast, making them a significant player in the correctional communications industry. Given their scale, it's no surprise that many people have questions about their pricing and how to manage the expenses associated with staying connected.

Factors Influencing Securus Phone Call Costs

Several factors influence Securus phone call costs, making it a bit complex to nail down an exact price. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant elements:

Location, Location, Location

The geographic location of the correctional facility plays a huge role in determining the cost of a Securus phone call. Different states and counties have different contracts with Securus, which directly impacts the rates. For example, calls from facilities in one state might be significantly cheaper (or more expensive) than calls from a facility just across the border. It all boils down to the specific agreements in place.

Type of Call

Securus offers several types of phone call options, each with its own pricing structure. Here are the main types:

• Direct Calls: These are the most common type, where the inmate calls a specific phone number. The cost for direct calls can vary widely based on location and call duration.
• Collect Calls: With collect calls, the recipient is responsible for paying the charges. These calls often come with higher fees and surcharges, so be prepared for a potentially hefty bill.
• AdvanceConnect: This is a prepaid calling service that allows you to deposit funds into an account. Inmates can then use these funds to make calls to your number. AdvanceConnect can sometimes offer lower rates compared to collect calls.
• Video Calls: Securus also provides video visitation services. The cost for video calls is usually different from regular phone calls and may depend on the length of the video session.

Call Duration

This one’s pretty obvious, right? The longer you chat, the more you pay. Securus typically charges per minute, so keeping an eye on the clock can help you manage costs. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re catching up with a loved one, but those minutes can add up quickly.

Facility Contracts

The specific contract between Securus and the correctional facility has a huge impact on pricing. These contracts outline the rates, fees, and commissions that Securus can charge. Some contracts might include additional fees for things like connection charges or account maintenance. Understanding these terms can give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Third-Party Fees

Sometimes, third-party companies are involved in processing payments or managing accounts. These third parties may charge their own fees, which can increase the overall cost of a Securus phone call. Always check for any hidden fees or charges before adding funds to an account or accepting a collect call.

Average Costs: What to Expect

Okay, so now you're probably wondering about average costs. Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. However, here's a general idea of what you might expect:

• Per-Minute Rates: Securus phone calls can range anywhere from a few cents per minute to over a dollar per minute. The average tends to be somewhere in the $0.10 to $0.50 per minute range, but this can vary significantly.
• Connection Fees: Some facilities charge a connection fee for each call, which can be a flat rate of a few dollars. This fee is charged regardless of the call duration.
• Collect Call Surcharges: Collect calls often come with hefty surcharges. These surcharges can sometimes double or even triple the cost of the call.
• Video Visitation: Video calls generally cost more than regular phone calls, with rates potentially ranging from $5 to $15 for a 30-minute session.

To get a more accurate estimate, it's best to check directly with Securus or the correctional facility in question. They should be able to provide specific rate information for that location.

Ways to Reduce Securus Phone Call Costs

Look, dealing with these costs can be a real headache, but don't worry! There are strategies to reduce Securus phone call costs. Here are some tips and tricks:

AdvanceConnect

As mentioned earlier, AdvanceConnect is a prepaid calling service that can often offer lower rates compared to collect calls. By depositing funds into an AdvanceConnect account, you can avoid those high collect call surcharges.

Shorter Calls

It sounds obvious, but keeping your calls shorter can make a big difference. Try to be mindful of the time and focus on the most important topics. This can help you stay connected without racking up a huge bill. Maybe schedule a few shorter calls throughout the week instead of one long one.

Letters and Emails

Consider using other forms of communication, such as letters or emails, to supplement your phone calls. Securus offers email services at some facilities, which can be a more affordable way to stay in touch. Plus, there's something special about receiving a handwritten letter!

Explore Alternative Providers

In some areas, alternative communication providers may offer lower rates than Securus. Research your options and see if there are any other services available that can help you save money. Just be sure to check with the correctional facility to ensure that these providers are approved.

Contact Advocacy Groups

Many advocacy groups are working to reduce the cost of inmate communication. These groups may be able to provide resources or support to help you manage the expenses associated with staying connected with a loved one. They can also advocate for policy changes that would lower rates.

Monitor Call Length

Keep an eye on how long your calls are lasting. Securus typically charges per minute, so being aware of the call duration can help you avoid surprises on your bill. Maybe set a timer or use a call-monitoring app to stay on track.

Avoid Collect Calls

Collect calls are often the most expensive option. Try to avoid accepting collect calls whenever possible. Instead, explore prepaid calling services or other alternatives that can offer lower rates.

Understanding Securus Billing

Understanding your Securus billing is super important to avoid any surprises. Securus provides detailed billing statements that outline the charges for each call. Review these statements carefully to ensure that you're only being charged for the calls you made or received.

The billing statement will typically include information such as the date and time of the call, the duration of the call, the phone number called, and the associated charges. If you notice any discrepancies or errors, contact Securus customer support right away to resolve the issue.

Securus offers several ways to pay your bill, including online payments, phone payments, and mail-in payments. Choose the payment method that works best for you and make sure to pay your bill on time to avoid any late fees or service interruptions.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Like any service, Securus isn't perfect. Here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to deal with them:

• Unexpected Charges: If you see unexpected charges on your bill, review the call details carefully. Contact Securus customer support to dispute any charges that you believe are incorrect. Be prepared to provide documentation or evidence to support your claim.
• Poor Call Quality: Sometimes, call quality can be poor due to technical issues or network problems. If you experience frequent call quality issues, contact Securus customer support to report the problem. They may be able to troubleshoot the issue or provide a credit for the affected calls.
• Account Issues: If you have trouble accessing your account or managing your funds, contact Securus customer support for assistance. They can help you resolve any account-related issues and ensure that your account is properly set up.
• Billing Disputes: If you have a dispute with Securus over billing charges, follow their dispute resolution process. This may involve submitting a written complaint and providing supporting documentation. Be patient and persistent in pursuing your claim.

The Future of Inmate Communication Costs

There's a growing movement to reform inmate communication costs. Many advocates and policymakers are pushing for lower rates and greater transparency in the industry. They argue that affordable communication is essential for maintaining family connections and supporting rehabilitation.

Some states have already taken steps to reduce inmate communication costs, such as capping rates or eliminating certain fees. These reforms are a step in the right direction, but there's still much work to be done.

As technology evolves, new communication options may emerge that could offer lower costs. For example, some facilities are exploring the use of tablets and other devices that allow inmates to communicate with their families at a more affordable rate.

Conclusion

Navigating Securus phone call costs can be challenging, but understanding the factors that influence pricing and the strategies to reduce expenses can make a big difference. By staying informed and proactive, you can stay connected with your incarcerated loved ones without breaking the bank.

Remember to explore all available options, monitor your billing statements, and advocate for fair rates. Staying connected is crucial for both inmates and their families, and affordable communication should be a priority.