Reviewed on: April 05,2026
Inmate Phone Calls

Do you still need Securus with discount service

If I add the discount phone service, do I still need to add money to the securus tech account as well?

Yes, you will still need to maintain and fund an account with Securus Technologies even if you use a discount phone service.
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer April 11,2014 · Inmate Phone Calls
1

Yes, you will still need to maintain and fund an account with Securus Technologies even if you use a discount phone service.

Securus controls the phone system inside the facility, so every call must go through them. The discount service does not replace Securus, it simply reduces the cost by giving your inmate a local number to call instead of a long distance one.

Here is how it works:

  • You get a local number through InmateAid
  • You set up that number with Securus as the approved number
  • You add funds to your Securus account
  • Your inmate calls the local number at a lower rate

Why this still saves money:
Even though Securus is still involved, local calls are much cheaper than long distance. Depending on usage, savings can be significant, especially if you receive frequent calls.

A simple way to look at it:

  • You still pay Securus to connect the call
  • You save money by lowering the per-minute rate

If you are receiving multiple calls per month, the reduced rates usually outweigh the monthly fee for the discount service.

Accepted Answer Date Created: April 11,2014
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.