Scheduling and Funding a Video Visit (Full Guide 2026)


Complete Step-by-Step Process for Booking an Online Prison Video Visit

Video visitation has become one of the most important tools for connecting families with incarcerated loved ones. Today, most U.S. jails and prisons offer remote video visits, allowing families to speak face-to-face without traveling or going through in-person security procedures.

How to Schedule a Video Visit With an Inmate (Full Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Confirm the Facility’s Official Video Visitation Provider

This is the #1 reason people can’t find their loved one online.
Check:

  • The jail or prison’s official website
  • The provider’s inmate search tool
  • The visitation rules page of the facility

Search terms people use on Google:

  • Who handles video visits for inmates?
  • How do I schedule a jail video visit?

2. Create Your Account on the Provider Portal

Most platforms require:

  • Full legal name
  • Email and phone number
  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • A photo ID (sometimes)

This account is used for scheduling, paying, and attending the visit.

3. Add the Inmate to Your Account

Use the search tool inside the portal and enter:

  • Inmate’s full name
  • Booking number or ID (if available)
  • State and facility

This step is required before booking a visit.

4. Select a Video Visit Date and Time

Go to the “Video Visitation” or “Schedule Visit” section.

Depending on the facility, you can choose:

  • Video visit type: remote or onsite
  • Duration: usually 10–30 minutes
  • Available time slots

Some jails require staff approval, so visit status may show “Pending” until confirmed.

How to Fund a Video Visit

Typical Cost of an Inmate Video Visit

Most video visit fees range between:

  • $5–$12 per session, or
  • $0.20–$0.50 per minute

Some county jails may charge more during peak hours.

1. Add Funds to Your Video Visitation Wallet

Every provider uses a wallet or credit system, such as:

  • Video Credits
  • Friends & Family Account
  • Online Wallet

Payment methods include:

  • Credit/debit card
  • Prepaid card
  • Apple Pay (some providers)

2. Check if the Inmate Needs Funds

Most systems only charge the visitor.
However, some facilities require inmates to have:

  • Connection fees
  • Paid video time
  • Account balance for the visit

Always check your facility’s rules.

Tips for a Smooth and Successful Video Visit

Test Your Device

Before the call, make sure your:

  • Camera works
  • Microphone works
  • Internet connection is stable
  • Browser is compatible

Chrome is the most recommended for most visitation sites.

Log In Early

Join the session 5–10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Late arrivals often lead to:

  • Automatic cancellation
  • No refunds
  • Temporary suspension of visitation privileges

Follow All Facility Rules

Even for remote visits, prisons enforce:

  • Dress codes
  • Restrictions on people appearing in frame
  • Prohibition of recording or screenshots

Breaking these rules can lead to denied visits.

Why Video Visits Matter for Inmates and Families

Video visits help inmates:

  • Maintain emotional connection
  • Reduce stress and isolation
  • Improve mental health
  • Keep bonds strong for reentry

For families, video visits offer:

  • Convenience
  • No travel costs
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Faster communication

This makes video visitation one of the most essential inmate services in 2025.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Schedule and Fund an Inmate Video Visit

Scheduling and paying for a video visit is simple once you know:

  1. The correct provider
  2. How to create an account
  3. How to add funds
  4. How to follow facility rules

Whether you use Securus, ViaPath, ICSolutions, Smart Communications, or GettingOut, this guide gives you everything you need to successfully book your next video visit.