On many smartphones, there is a setting to “Silence Unknown Callers” or “Filter Unknown Callers.” If this setting is enabled, calls from prison facilities (which often come from unfamiliar numbers) will be silenced automatically. Make sure this feature is turned off.
Ensure your prepaid or "AdvancePay" account has a positive balance. how to unblock a prison call
When you receive a call from an incarcerated person, the automated phone system typically gives you options. You might be asked to press a number to accept the call, press another number to reject it, or press a specific number to block all future calls from that facility. If you press the wrong digit by mistake, you can permanently block your own number without realizing it. On many smartphones, there is a setting to
If you are using a traditional landline or want to verify your mobile account status, call your phone provider's customer service department. When you receive a call from an incarcerated
Prison phone networks do not operate like standard commercial carriers. They are heavily regulated and monitored. Blocks typically fall into one of four categories. 1. Financial Restrictions
If you have set up direct billing with the phone provider (where call charges appear on your regular phone bill), a past‑due balance will trigger a block. Pay the outstanding balance in full, then contact customer service to request removal of the block.
If you have tried all of the above and still cannot receive calls, contact the facility directly. The facility may have placed a block on your number for security reasons, or the incarcerated person may have disciplinary restrictions on their calling privileges. Ask to speak with the facility’s telephone coordinator or the incarcerated person’s case manager for more information.