The amount of time you can talk on the phone with an incarcerated loved one depends on the policies and procedures of the specific correctional facility. Generally, most jails and prisons allow some form of phone communication, but there are limits in place to manage demand and security concerns. Understanding the rules around phone access can help families stay connected during incarceration.
How Long Are Prison Phone Calls?
Each facility has its own guidelines for the length of phone calls with prisoners. Some common time limits include:
- 15 minutes per call
- 30 minutes per call
- 1 hour per call
Some prisons may allow calls to go on longer than an hour in special circumstances, like an emergency. The time limit resets after each call, so you may be able to speak to your incarcerated loved one multiple times per day or per week, up to the facility’s total allowance.
Are There Limits on Total Calling Time?
In addition to limits per call, most facilities also have restrictions on the total phone time accessible to each inmate per day or per week. Common allowances include:
- 15 minutes total per day
- 1 hour total per day
- 10 hours total per week
- 15 hours total per week
The total time allowed can vary widely by facility. Federal prisons tend to be more generous, allowing up to 300 minutes (5 hours) per month. Some state prisons limit prisoners to as little as 5-15 minutes total per week.
Factors That Impact Call Length
Several factors may influence how much phone access an inmate gets:
- Security level – Minimum security prisons allow more phone privileges than maximum security facilities.
- Phone demand – Some prisons limit call length based on phone availability due to high demand.
- Inmate behavior – Good behavior can earn increased phone time as a privilege. Rule violations may result in restrictions.
- Account balances – Inmates may need to pay for phone time, restricting access if they lack funds.
So an individual prisoner’s calling allowance can depend heavily on the specific facility policies and the inmate’s circumstances.
Are There Exceptions?
While most facilities impose limits, there are some exceptions that can allow longer phone conversations with an incarcerated loved one:
- Attorney calls – Calls with attorneys are often exempt from standard time limits.
- Family emergencies – Extra time may be granted for crisis situations like a death in the family or serious illness.
- Holidays – Some jails and prisons allow extra phone time around major holidays.
- Good behavior rewards – Model inmates may earn extended call privileges as an incentive.
However, exceptions are not guaranteed and need to be approved by the facility based on their policies and discretion.
Tips for Maximizing Call Time
To make the most of limited phone access with an incarcerated individual:
- Learn the facility’s policies and work within their limits
- Schedule calls at optimal times when demand may be lower
- Have a plan for the conversation to make the most of the time limit
- Take turns talking to allow both parties to share information
- Discuss options for supplementing calls like emails and letters
- Avoid extending calls too long to prevent disconnection mid-conversation
Staying mindful of time constraints while being organized and brief can help optimize communication.
Conclusion
Phone privileges vary widely across correctional facilities, from just minutes to a few hours per week. While families understandably want to connect as much as possible, it is important to work within the allowed time frames to avoid losing access entirely. With some planning around the specific rules, open communication with facility staff, and creativity in supplementing calls, families can maintain regular contact with incarcerated loved ones.