Cheap Prison Calls:
5 Tips For Reducing Prison Call Costs

Staying in touch with loved ones during incarceration is essential for maintaining relationships and providing emotional support. However, the costs associated with prison phone calls can be a significant financial burden for families. With careful planning and the use of specific strategies, it's possible to reduce these costs, making regular communication more affordable. This guide provides practical tips on how to lower the expense of prison phone calls, ensuring that families can stay connected without breaking the bank.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Phone Plan

One of the most effective ways to reduce the cost of prison phone calls is by choosing the right phone plan. There are several providers out there that offer specialized plans specifically designed to lower the rates for calls from prisons. These plans often feature discounted rates for calls to certain numbers or offer packages that bundle minutes at a lower cost, making it easier to stay connected without overspending.

To start, it’s essential to research and compare different phone service providers to find the one that offers the best rates for prison calls. Some companies specialize in this area, and their plans can provide significant savings. Another option to consider is setting up a landline dedicated to receiving calls from prison. This can often be cheaper than using a mobile phone, especially if you choose a plan that’s tailored to reduce costs specifically for this purpose.

Additionally, some prisons offer family and friends accounts, allowing you to deposit funds and benefit from reduced call rates. It's a good idea to check with the specific prison to see if this option is available, as it can further ease the financial burden of staying in touch. By carefully selecting the right plan and taking advantage of these options, you can make regular communication more affordable.

Tip 2: Try And Use VOIP

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone lines by enabling phone calls to be made over the internet. This technology can drastically reduce the cost of communication, especially for long-distance or international calls.

To take advantage of these savings, the first step is to set up a VoIP account with a service like Skype, Google Voice, or a specialized prison call app. These services often offer lower rates for calls, but it’s important to check whether the prison permits VoIP calls and that the inmate has access to the necessary technology.

Another money-saving tip is to link your VoIP account to a local number near the prison. By doing this, you can avoid long-distance charges, further reducing the overall cost of calls. Additionally, many VoIP providers offer prepaid plans, which allow you to purchase minutes in bulk at a discounted rate, making it easier to manage and predict your communication expenses.

Tip 3: Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Call Days

Certain prisons and phone providers occasionally offer free or discounted call days, often around holidays or specific times of the year. These opportunities can be a great way to reduce the overall cost of staying in touch with incarcerated loved ones. To take advantage of these savings, it's important to check the schedule regularly. Inquire with the prison or your phone provider about any upcoming free or discounted call days. Being aware of these dates in advance allows you to plan accordingly.

When these days are available, plan ahead to make the most of them. Use the opportunity for longer or more frequent calls, ensuring that friends and family are available to participate. This way, you can maximize savings while maintaining meaningful communication with your loved one.

Tip 4: Monitor and Manage Call Duration

Call costs can escalate rapidly if not managed carefully, making it essential for families to monitor the duration and frequency of their conversations. By being conscious of how time is spent on each call, families can stretch their budget further and ensure that funds last as long as needed.

One effective strategy is to set a time limit for each call. Agreeing on a maximum duration beforehand helps prevent overspending and ensures that funds remain available for future calls. This approach keeps communication consistent without blowing the budget.Another tip is to prioritize conversations during calls. Focus on the most important topics, leaving less urgent matters for letters or emails, which are often more affordable. This way, you can make the most of the call time without incurring unnecessary costs.

Lastly, it's crucial to track spending regularly. By reviewing call costs, families can stay aware of their spending patterns and make adjustments if costs start to exceed the budget. Monitoring expenses helps maintain control over communication costs and prevents financial strain.

Tip 5: Explore Alternatives To Phone Calls

While phone calls provide the most immediate connection with loved ones, they can quickly become expensive. To manage these costs, it's worth exploring alternative methods of communication that can help reduce the need for frequent phone calls while still maintaining strong connections.

One such option is the Email a Prisoner service, which allows you to send messages to inmates at a lower cost than traditional phone calls. Although emails lack the immediacy of a phone conversation, they offer a practical and affordable way to stay in touch regularly.Another alternative is sending postal letters. Writing letters not only adds a personal touch but also allows for more detailed communication. The thoughtful exchange of words through letters can make each message more meaningful, potentially reducing the need for as many phone calls.

Finally, consider video calls if the facility offers them. Video calls provide a more personal connection than a phone call, as you can see your loved one’s face, which can be particularly comforting. When paired with a VoIP service, video calls can be a cost-effective way to maintain a close connection without the high costs associated with regular phone calls.

With options like Cheap Prison Calls, you can maintain regular communication without breaking the bank. We offer unlimited minuets for a flat fee of £19.99 which makes it easy to keep in touch with you loved ones in prison. You should of course not forget the traditional services like email a prisoner, send a message to any UK prison, and pay a prisoner securely, ensuring your support reaches them quickly, or you can book a prison visit effortlessly and even send a prisoner money for their essentials. Whether you're using another prison phone services Prison Call simplifies the process, helping you stay close to those who matter most at an affordable cost.