Our 5 top tips for getting cheap prison calls

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: Make sure you 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 voice over internet protocol (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 time on the phone

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: Use a virtual landline with Prison Call

Virtual landlines are a popular option because they allow prisoners to call a local landline number, which is significantly cheaper than calling a mobile. When a prisoner dials the virtual landline, the call is automatically redirected to the recipient’s mobile or home phone.

Why Choose a Virtual Landline?
‍- Significantly lower call costs compared to calling a mobile directly.
- Fully compliant with prison rules, unlike some VoIP services that may get blocked.
- Easy setup, ensuring seamless communication with a loved one.

While prison phone calls in the UK can be expensive, there are several ways to reduce costs. Using a virtual landline through a reliable provider like Prison Call, taking advantage of government support, and utilizing off-peak hours are all effective ways to save money. Staying connected with a loved one is crucial, and with the right approach, cheap prison calls can be a reality.If you're looking for an affordable way to stay in touch with a prisoner, consider exploring Prison Call and other cost-saving methods today.