How Much Does a Collect Call from Jail Cost?
In the United States, the cost of a collect call from jail can vary significantly depending on the state, the jail, and the service provider. These calls are facilitated through a third-party company that has a contract with the jail to handle the billing and routing of the calls. Here’s a closer look at the factors that influence the cost of a collect call from jail.
State Regulations and Fees
Each state has its own regulations regarding the rates for collect calls from jails. Some states have a cap on the rates, while others allow the jails to set their own prices. Generally, the rates for these calls are higher than regular phone calls due to the additional costs associated with the service.
Service Provider Rates
The rates for collect calls from jail are determined by the service provider that the jail has contracted with. These providers typically charge a per-minute rate, which can range from a few cents to over a dollar per minute. The rates may also include additional fees such as connection fees, taxes, and regulatory fees.
Types of Collect Calls
There are different types of collect calls from jail, each with its own cost. The most common types include:
– Inmate-initiated calls: These are calls made by the inmate to the recipient’s phone number. The recipient is responsible for paying the bill.
– Out-of-state calls: Calls made to recipients outside the inmate’s home state may have higher rates than local or in-state calls.
– Reverse collect calls: In some cases, the recipient can request a reverse collect call, where the jail pays the recipient’s phone bill. These calls are typically more expensive for the inmate.
Additional Fees and Taxes
On top of the per-minute rate, there may be additional fees and taxes applied to the cost of a collect call from jail. These can include:
– Connection fees: A one-time fee charged for each call.
– Tax: A percentage of the call’s cost that is remitted to the state or local government.
– Regulatory fees: Fees imposed by the government to cover the costs of overseeing the telecommunications industry.
Reducing the Cost of Collect Calls
To help inmates and their families manage the costs of collect calls from jail, some jails offer payment plans or discounts. Additionally, there are services like JPay and TouchPay that allow inmates to pre-pay for their phone calls, potentially saving money on connection fees and taxes.
In conclusion, the cost of a collect call from jail can vary widely, and it’s important for inmates and their families to understand the rates and fees associated with these calls. By researching the options available and being aware of the additional costs, they can better manage the financial burden of staying in touch with loved ones during an inmate’s incarceration.
