The cost of a call from jail is not a fixed amount; it varies significantly depending on several factors, including the state, the specific facility, the duration of the call, and whether the call is in-state or out-of-state. While exact prices can differ by county or individual jail contract, average rates provide a good estimate.
Factors Influencing Jail Call Costs
Several elements determine how much a call from jail will cost:
- Location (State): Each state can have different regulations or average costs negotiated by correctional facilities.
- Call Destination: Calls made to a phone number within the same state (in-state) are often priced differently than calls made to a different state (out-of-state).
- Call Duration: Some calls are charged per minute, while others might have a flat rate for a certain duration (e.g., a 15-minute call).
- Facility Contracts: Jails typically contract with specific telecommunications providers, which can set their own rate structures.
Average Jail Calling Rates by State
To give you an idea of the range, here are average jail calling rates in select states, illustrating the variability in costs:
| State | Average In-State Per Minute Rate | Average 15-Minute Out-of-State Call |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $0.31 | $3.15 |
| California | $0.07 | $2.03 |
| Colorado | $0.19 | $2.79 |
| Connecticut | N/A | N/A |
Note: These are average rates and actual costs can vary.
As seen in the table, an in-state call in California averages $0.07 per minute, making a 15-minute in-state call approximately $1.05 (0.07 x 15). In contrast, a 15-minute out-of-state call from California averages $2.03. Arkansas, on the other hand, has a higher average in-state per minute rate of $0.31, leading to a higher cost for similar call durations.
Understanding Call Billing
In many jail systems, inmates do not directly pay for calls. Instead, calls are typically made collect or through pre-paid accounts set up by friends or family members. These accounts require deposits, from which call costs are deducted. Some facilities may also offer options for direct billing to the recipient's phone number, though this is less common for long-distance calls due to potential high costs.
The wide disparity in costs highlights the financial burden placed on families and friends trying to maintain contact with incarcerated loved ones.
