Is it cheaper to use phone cards or accounts

You have two main options, and each works a little differently depending on what matters most to you.

1. Putting money on his books (commissary):

• He can use that money to buy phone cards inside
• This can help avoid some setup or deposit fees from outside phone providers
• Calls may be more straightforward and sometimes cheaper

Downside:

• Once the money is on his account, he can spend it however he wants
  • Calls to anyone
  • Commissary items like food or hygiene products

2. Setting up a phone account:

• You create and fund an account with the facility’s phone provider (sometimes referred to as services like Infinity or others depending on the jail)
• This gives you more control over where the calls go
• Your number must be approved for him to call

Cost considerations:

• Phone cards can avoid some fees but offer less control
• Phone accounts can be more controlled but may include extra charges

Best way to save money overall:

• Use a local number setup (like InmateAid) so his calls are billed as local instead of long distance
• This can reduce the cost by several dollars per call regardless of which option you choose

Bottom line:

• If control matters, use a phone account
• If simplicity and fewer fees matter, commissary phone cards can work
• For the biggest savings, combine either option with a local number strategy

It really comes down to whether you want control over the spending or the lowest upfront cost.