How to Video Call to and from Jail in 4 Easy Steps

It’s never been easier to connect with incarcerated loved ones thanks to advancements in video communication technology. Hassles like scheduling on-site visitations and gaining approvals from jail staff make connection difficult, which is why HomeWAV offers a much more efficient platform. Safe, secure, and easy ways to video chat with incarcerated individuals are simple to set up once you know the steps. We’ve created a quick guide to help you get started on how to set up a video call to and from jail. 

Benefits of Video Chats with Incarcerated Individuals

The standard way of connecting with inmates is by scheduling traditional voice calls or by booking in-person visits. While these are still better options than nothing at all, video calls from jail offer personable, easy, and inclusive options for the whole family. You can see your loved one face-to-face, even if far away. This is also a great way to boost your loved one’s morale by including kids and pets on calls — subject to policies as this varies from facility to facility — which isn’t usually an option for in-person visits. Video phone calls from jail improve the mental well-being for both the incarcerated individual and their family and friends.

There’s no question that navigating incarceration is extremely challenging for everyone involved, but video chats from jail help set the incarcerated person up for success during their time in jail and after. Interested in learning how to start setting up jail video calls? Let’s get started! 

• Step 1: Create an account online or through our mobile app
There are a few companies which offer video calls from jail, but at HomeWAV, we are proud to offer a simple, fast setup that allows quick connection. Simply download our app or use your personal computer to create an account. All you’ll need is a photo of yourself, a government-issued ID, and to fill out some basic information. 

• Step 2: Add funds to your account
Next, you’ll transfer money to your account. You can use credit, debit or prepaid cards to do this. Once you’ve run out of funds in your account, it’s easy to add more via your app or by simply visiting our website. It typically costs 10-30 cents per minute to talk, depending on the facility, so take that into account when adding funds. You will also need to add the correct facility and inmate to the account. They are listed in a dropdown menu.

• Step 3: Account approval
The detention facility where your loved one is located will need to approve your account. You’ll know it’s been approved when you receive a notification that your friend or family member is online. Usually, the approval process takes no more than two days to review and complete, so you’ll be able to talk to your loved one quickly. The inmate will also be able to see your information on their account once you’re approved. After that? You’re ready to start inmate video calls!

• Step 4: Initiating and receiving video calls from jail:
You’ve made it to the best part. It’s time to connect with your loved one! You need to have your app open to appear online on the incarcerated individual’s account. This is a great time to enable notifications on your app’s settings so you are notified every time your loved one has logged on. 

Please note all calls will need to be initiated by the incarcerated individual. You’ll also need to be sure you have enough funds in your account. Once online, check the color of the icon of your loved one. If it’s green, they are online! All you need to do is stay on the app and accept their call. 

HomeWAV Mobile App: Receiving a Video Call

Get Started With HomeWAV

We’re happy to provide families with easy and meaningful ways to connect through difficult times. If you want to video chat to and from jail, it’ll just take a few minutes to set up your account and no more than two days for our team to approve. Our app is free — the only cost involved is the funds needed to place calls. So, what are you waiting for? Create your own account or download the app! If you’re searching for more information about HomeWAV’s process, see our frequently asked questions and details about setting up accounts.