How To Unblock An Inmate Call • Limited Time

This is a trap many fall into. You have unlimited minutes on your cell plan, but the inmate pays to call you, or you have a prepaid collect account .

Send a JPay message or a physical letter to the inmate asking, "Do you have phone privileges right now?"

If you see the prison's number there, swipe to unblock it. The inmate can call you immediately after. how to unblock an inmate call

If they write back saying yes, but it still doesn't work, you need to file a with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the state's Public Utility Commission. Prison phone monopolies hate FCC complaints because they are public record. This usually fixes a "glitch" within 72 hours.

This is the most common cause. If you were frustrated during a previous call and hit "Block This Caller," you blocked the prison's central exchange number—not the inmate’s personal device. This is a trap many fall into

Most blocks happen at the service provider level (e.g., Securus, GTL/Viapath, ICSolutions). This often occurs if you accidentally pressed a button during the automated prompt (like pressing "9" to block all future calls) or if there is a billing issue.

Most correctional facilities utilize an automated introduction system. If a number has been blocked (either by the inmate or accidentally by the recipient), the recipient can often lift the block directly from their phone. The inmate can call you immediately after

Call the prison phone service provider (GTL, Securus, etc.). Do not call the prison guard station—they cannot help with phone billing. Tell them: "I need to verify my phone number is the primary approved contact for Inmate #[Name]."