You Need to Fund a Securus Phone Account
You’re trying to reach someone important, but the call won’t connect. The automated message says the inmate’s phone account has insufficient funds. It’s a frustrating barrier when communication is your only lifeline.
Adding money to a Securus phone, officially known as a Securus Debit Account, is the standard way to pay for calls from correctional facilities. This guide provides the exact steps, payment methods, and troubleshooting tips to ensure your funds are available quickly.
Understanding How Securus Phone Accounts Work
Securus Technologies provides phone services for hundreds of correctional facilities across the United States. Inmates typically cannot receive calls; they must initiate them to pre-approved numbers. To pay for these calls, money must be deposited into an account associated with the inmate or their phone number.
There are generally two types of accounts. A prepaid direct account is funded by you, and the inmate can only call numbers you have approved. A debit account is funded from the inmate’s own trust account, managed by the facility. This article focuses on funding the prepaid accounts that friends and family set up.
Prerequisites Before You Add Money
You cannot send money blindly. To successfully fund an account, you will need specific information. First, you must know the inmate’s full name and their correct booking number or ID. Second, you need the exact name and location of the correctional facility. Finally, you must have your own payment information ready, including a valid credit or debit card.
Most importantly, your phone number must already be on the inmate’s approved calling list at that facility. If it is not, you will not be able to create or fund an account for that inmate. Contact the facility directly to inquire about being added to the list.
The Primary Method: Online Through the Securus Portal
The fastest and most reliable way to add money is via the Securus Technologies website. This method provides immediate posting of funds in most cases.
First, navigate to the Securus Online Payments website. You will need to create a user account if you do not already have one. This account will allow you to manage multiple inmates and view call history.
Once logged in, you add the inmate to your account. You will search for them using their name, facility, and ID number. The system will verify you are an approved contact. After the inmate is linked to your profile, you can proceed to funding.
Select the “Make a Payment” option. Choose the specific inmate account you wish to fund. Enter the deposit amount. Be aware of minimum and maximum deposit limits, which vary by facility. You will then enter your credit card, debit card, or use a saved payment method. Review all details carefully before submitting the payment.
You should receive an on-screen confirmation and an email receipt. Funds are typically available for calls within 15 to 30 minutes, though it can sometimes take up to 24 hours depending on facility processing.
Using the Securus Mobile App
For on-the-go management, Securus offers a mobile application called “Securus Mobile.” It is available for free on iOS and Android devices. The process within the app mirrors the website.
Download the app, log in with your online portal credentials, and follow the same steps to locate the inmate and make a deposit. The app interface is designed for simplicity and can store your payment information for future transactions.
Alternative Payment Methods and Services
If you cannot or prefer not to use the online portal, several other official options exist. Note that these methods often involve higher fees and longer processing times.
One common alternative is using a walk-in cash service. Companies like CashPayToday and PayNearMe partner with Securus. You can generate a payment barcode on the Securus website, then take that barcode and cash to a participating retail location like 7-Eleven or Family Dollar. The cashier scans the barcode, accepts your cash, and the deposit is processed, usually within a few hours.
You can also make a deposit over the phone by calling Securus Customer Service. Be prepared to provide all inmate details, your own account information, and payment card details over the phone. This method is straightforward but may involve a service fee.
Some facilities may still accept money orders mailed directly to them for an inmate’s trust account, which could then be used for phone services. This process is slow, often taking 7-10 business days, and policies vary widely. You must contact the specific facility’s business office for exact instructions before sending anything.
Navigating Fees and Account Management
Adding money is not free. Securus charges a transaction fee for each deposit. This fee varies depending on the payment method and the amount deposited. Online credit/debit card payments typically have a percentage-based fee. Walk-in cash services usually have a flat fee. These fees are clearly disclosed before you finalize any transaction.
It is crucial to monitor your account balance and call rates. Rates per minute vary significantly by facility and call type (local vs. long-distance). You can set up low-balance alerts through your online account to receive an email or text when the funds drop below a threshold you specify.
If you need to dispute a charge or report unauthorized account activity, you must contact Securus Customer Support directly. Keep all your email receipts and confirmation numbers as reference.
Why Your Payment Might Be Declined
Even with correct information, payments can fail. The most common reason is a payment card issue. Your bank may flag the transaction as suspicious due to the merchant category. Contact your bank to authorize the payment before trying again.
Incorrect inmate details will also cause a failure. Double-check the spelling of the name, the facility state, and the inmate ID number. A single digit error in the ID will halt the process.
Finally, if your phone number is not on the inmate’s approved list, the system will not allow you to complete the transaction. You must resolve this with the facility directly.
Ensuring Communication Stays Open
Successfully funding the account is the first step. To maintain consistent communication, consider setting up a small auto-replenish feature if the facility and your account offer it. This automatically adds a set amount when the balance falls below a certain point, preventing unexpected service interruptions.
Always be aware of the facility’s specific call schedule. Funds cannot be used during lockdowns, headcounts, or designated non-call hours. Knowing the schedule helps manage expectations about when your loved one can call.
If you experience technical issues where funds are taken but not posted to the account, gather your evidence. Have your confirmation number, receipt email, and bank statement ready before calling support. Patience is key, as resolution can take several business days.
Your Next Steps to Connect
Start by gathering the required information: inmate name, ID, and facility details. Visit the Securus Online Payments website to create your account and attempt your first deposit. The online system is the most efficient path.
If you encounter obstacles, use the official alternative methods like walk-in cash services. Avoid any third-party services not directly listed on the Securus website, as they may be scams.
Keeping a Securus phone funded requires attention to detail and an understanding of the process. By following these official steps, you can minimize delays and maintain the vital connection that phone calls provide.
