Cheap Prison Calls: Can You Get Cheaper Prison Calls Internationally?

One of the most challenging aspects for families and friends of incarcerated individuals is maintaining regular contact, especially if their loved one is held in a prison abroad. International prison calls can be costly, creating a financial burden for families who already face emotional and logistical challenges. However, there are ways to reduce the cost of these calls, making it easier to stay connected without breaking the bank. This article explores the options available for getting cheaper prison calls internationally, addressing different methods, services, and practical tips that can help.

Why are international prison calls expensive?

Before diving into how you can reduce the cost of international prison calls, it’s essential to understand why these calls are so expensive in the first place. Several factors contribute to the high cost. Firstly, the call infrastructure and regulations play a significant role. Prisons often use private telecommunication providers to manage their phone systems. These providers typically charge higher fees due to the infrastructure needed to manage security protocols, monitoring systems, and ensuring the safety of both inmates and call recipients. Additionally, there is often a monopoly on services; many prisons only allow one telecommunications provider, meaning inmates and their families have no choice but to use this provider’s services. Without competition, the provider can set higher prices.

Moreover, international call fees are another factor to consider. International calls, in general, are more expensive than domestic calls due to the costs associated with connecting calls between different countries. These fees are typically passed down to the caller. Lastly, the lack of negotiation opportunities also contributes to the problem. Families are often unaware of or unable to negotiate better prices for international calls, making them subject to the standard (and usually inflated) rates.

Thankfully, there are several ways to reduce the cost of international prison calls. Some of these involve using specialized services, while others require a bit of strategy in how you manage communications. Below are some of the most effective options.

Methods for cheaper international calls from prison

One of the most popular methods for reducing the cost of international prison calls is by using Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services. VOIP allows users to make phone calls over the internet, bypassing traditional phone lines and thus reducing costs. Some services provide cheaper international call rates, and in certain cases, may even offer free calls. For instance, Skype allows international calls at reduced rates, especially when using Skype Credit or subscriptions. Family members can install Skype on their devices and pay a fraction of the price compared to traditional international calls. Additionally, Skype offers subscription packages that provide unlimited calling to specific regions, which can further reduce costs. Similarly, if the prison allows inmates to use smartphones or tablets, WhatsApp can be a game-changer as it offers free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data, reducing the need for expensive phone lines.

Google Voice is another effective VOIP service that provides affordable international calling rates, particularly for countries like the UK, the US, Canada, and parts of Europe. By setting up Google Voice, families can make international calls at a much lower price, sometimes even offering free calls to certain regions. Furthermore, Viber provides low-cost international calling options via the internet, and it has a feature called Viber Out, which allows users to call landlines and mobiles globally at discounted rates.

The pros of using VOIP services include the significant reduction in call costs and convenience, as they are easy to set up and use, especially if the inmate has access to tablets or phones. Moreover, some services offer free calls if both parties are using the same platform. However, it is essential to note that VOIP requires a stable internet connection, which may not be available in all prisons. Additionally, some prisons do not allow the use of personal devices or restrict VOIP calls.

Another effective way to make international calls cheaper is through calling cards. These cards can offer a more affordable way to make international calls, especially when calling from a landline or payphone. Some prisons allow inmates to purchase or receive calling cards, which can then be used to call international numbers at reduced rates. There are two main types of calling cards: prepaid and postpaid. Prepaid cards are loaded with a certain amount of credit and used until the balance is exhausted. They are generally more affordable than direct international calls and often come with special rates for specific countries. Postpaid cards, on the other hand, work similarly to a credit account, where the user is billed for the calls they make at the end of a billing cycle. Postpaid cards may offer even lower rates than prepaid cards, depending on the provider.

To use calling cards effectively for cheaper international calls, it is crucial to find a reputable provider that specializes in international calls and offers lower rates to the country you’re trying to reach. Additionally, using prison-approved cards is essential, as some prisons restrict the types of calling cards inmates can use. Monitoring usage is also important; prepaid cards are easy to manage since they prevent overspending. However, with postpaid cards, users need to be cautious to avoid unexpected bills.

The pros of using calling cards include lower rates than direct international calls, ease of use, and availability for purchase online or at retail stores. Some cards also offer special discounts for frequently called countries. On the downside, calling cards can still be expensive if not chosen carefully, and not all prisons allow calling card use, with restrictions varying from facility to facility.

Setting up a virtual landline with Prison Call is also a popular solution with friends and families supporting their loved ones in prison. Our unlimited minuets package offers a cheap and affordable solution to stay in contact with an inmate. We can keep you connected to your friends and family in prison weather you are at home or abroad. Phone calls will be diverted directly to your mobile, so weather you are at home or abroad, you can conveniently receive phone calls from prison at a reduced rate.

In addition to phone calls, some prisons offer email and messaging services that can be more cost-effective than phone calls. These services allow inmates to send and receive emails or text messages via a secure system. While not all prisons offer this option, many do, and it can be a great alternative to expensive international phone calls. Popular prison email services, such as Email a Prisoner, allow family members to send emails to inmates, which are printed and delivered by prison staff. In some prisons, inmates can also respond electronically, making it a convenient way to stay in touch. Corrlinks, used by US federal prisons, is another example of an email service that allows for communication between inmates and their families at a relatively low cost.

The pros of using email and messaging services include the significantly lower costs compared to phone calls, flexibility for inmates to respond at their convenience, and the ability to use these services in conjunction with phone calls to reduce overall communication costs. However, some prisons do not offer email or messaging services, and responses from inmates may take longer than phone calls.

Tips for reducing the cost of international prison calls

In addition to the methods outlined above, there are a few practical steps families can take to further reduce the cost of international prison calls. For instance, planning calls during off-peak hours can be beneficial, as some prison phone providers offer cheaper rates during these times. Additionally, limiting call length can help manage costs; while it’s important to maintain regular contact, keeping calls shorter can be a useful strategy. Another approach is to use a combination of services, such as utilizing email or messaging for frequent communication while reserving phone calls for more extended conversations. This can help families stay connected without incurring high costs. Lastly, it’s worth checking for discounts or subsidised programs, as some prisons or non-profit organisations may offer subsidies or financial assistance for families trying to maintain contact with incarcerated loved ones, particularly for international calls.

Maintaining regular contact with loved ones in prison is crucial for their mental health, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society. While international prison calls can be expensive, there are several methods and services available to help reduce the cost. By exploring options like VOIP services, calling cards, third-party prison call services, and local number forwarding, families can stay connected without the financial burden of high international call fees. By taking the time to research and implement cost-saving measures, families can ensure that they remain in touch with their loved ones, providing the emotional support that is so critical during incarceration. Cheaper prison calls aren’t just about saving money—they’re about making communication more accessible and helping inmates maintain the relationships that will support their eventual rehabilitation.