Communicating with loved ones in correctional facilities can be a challenge, but services like City Tele Coin aim to bridge that gap. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to use City Tele Coin to maintain contact with individuals incarcerated in correctional facilities, covering account setup, funding, communication methods, and important considerations.
City Tele Coin offers various communication services, including phone calls, video calls, and messages, to facilitate connections between inmates and their families or friends. This guide will walk you through the practical steps involved in using their services effectively.
Setting Up Your City Tele Coin Account
The first step in utilizing City Tele Coin’s services is to establish an account. There are two primary methods for account creation: online via their website or through their dedicated mobile application.
Online Account Setup
To set up an account online, visit the official City Tele Coin website. You will typically find an option to register a new account or log in to an existing DirectPay account. DirectPay is often integrated with correctional facility payment systems, allowing for streamlined financial transactions. When creating a new account, you will be prompted to provide necessary personal information, such as your name, contact details, and a chosen password. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid future complications.
Mobile App Account Setup
For convenience, City Tele Coin offers a mobile application compatible with both Android and Apple devices. You can download the official City Tele Coin app from the Google Play Store for Android devices or the Apple App Store for iOS devices. Once downloaded, open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to register a new account. The app typically mirrors the functionality of the website, providing a user-friendly interface for account creation and management. Using the mobile app can simplify the process of how to use City Tele Coin on the go.
Adding Funds to Your City Tele Coin Account
Once your account is set up, the next crucial step is to add funds. Funds are necessary to cover the costs of communication services. City Tele Coin provides several convenient methods for adding money to your account.
Online Funding
The most common way to add funds is directly through the City Tele Coin website. After logging into your registered account, navigate to the funding or payment section. You will typically have options to add funds using a credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment methods. Follow the prompts to enter your payment information and specify the amount you wish to deposit. Confirm the transaction to finalize the funding process.
Mobile App Funding
The City Tele Coin mobile app also allows for easy funding of your account. Within the app, locate the section dedicated to adding funds or managing your balance. Similar to the website, you can use credit or debit cards to deposit money. The app provides a secure and convenient way to manage your funds from your smartphone or tablet. This method makes it convenient to understand how to use City Tele Coin for financial transactions.
Kiosk Funding
Some detention centers provide City Tele Coin kiosks in their lobbies. These physical kiosks offer an alternative method for adding funds, particularly useful for those who prefer to use cash or who are physically present at the facility. Kiosks typically accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Follow the on-screen instructions at the kiosk to deposit funds into your account. Always obtain a receipt for your transaction when using a kiosk.
Communicating Through City Tele Coin
With funds in your account, you can begin to communicate with the inmate. City Tele Coin offers various communication channels, each with its own procedures.
Phone Calls
Phone calls are a primary method of communication. City Tele Coin facilitates these calls through a prepaid system. You have two main options:
- Purchasing a Prepaid Phone Card for the Inmate: You can purchase a prepaid phone card specifically for the inmate. This card will have a set amount of talk time. It is vital to provide the card PIN to the inmate for whom you are purchasing it so they can use the allocated funds.
- Setting up a Prepaid Account: Alternatively, you can set up a prepaid account that the inmate can draw from. This is often done through the City Tele Coin website or by contacting their customer support. To learn how to use City Tele Coin for phone calls, visit their website or call their support line at 318-746-1114 for detailed instructions on setting up prepaid calling.
Video Calls
Video calls offer a more personal way to connect. To use video call services:
- Scheduling Online: Video visitations are typically scheduled online through the City Tele Coin website. You will need to select an available time slot and ensure both you and the inmate are ready at the scheduled time.
- Scheduling Through the Mobile App: The mobile app also provides functionality to schedule video calls. This offers flexibility and allows you to manage your video visits from your mobile device. Ensure your device has a stable internet connection and a working camera for video calls.
Messages
City Tele Coin also enables text-based messaging. The process for sending and receiving messages can vary slightly depending on the facility and the available technology:
- Visitation Unit in the Inmate’s Dorm: Inmates may be able to send and receive messages through a dedicated visitation unit located in their dorm or housing area.
- Mobile App: Some facilities and City Tele Coin setups allow for sending and receiving messages directly through the mobile app. This provides a convenient and often faster way to exchange short communications. Check the specific facility’s guidelines for message capabilities. Understanding how to use City Tele Coin for messaging can help maintain frequent, brief contact.
Important Notes and Considerations
When using City Tele Coin services, it’s vital to be aware of several important points that can impact your communication experience and financial transactions.
Account Types Explained
City Tele Coin typically offers different account types that serve distinct purposes:
- DirectPay Account: A DirectPay account is primarily designed to allow you to call a specific telephone number. This type of account is often linked to an inmate’s personal communication balance.
- Online Calling Card Account: An online calling card account provides more flexibility, allowing the inmate to call any unrestricted number. This can be beneficial if the inmate needs to contact various approved individuals.
Understanding these distinctions is key to choosing the correct account type for your communication needs.
Providing Calling Card PINs
If you opt to purchase a calling card for an inmate, it is essential to ensure they receive the card’s PIN. Without the PIN, the inmate will be unable to utilize the funds on the card for phone calls. This often requires communicating the PIN to the inmate through approved channels, such as mail or during a visitation, if permissible.
Facility Restrictions and Monitoring
Correctional facilities maintain strict control over inmate communication for security and operational reasons. It is crucial to remember that:
- Restrictions: Facilities may impose restrictions on communication methods, times, and recipients. Always check the specific rules of the correctional facility where the inmate is housed.
- Review and Monitoring: All communications, including phone calls, video calls, and messages, are typically subject to review and monitoring by correctional staff. Be mindful of this when communicating and avoid sharing sensitive or inappropriate information. This is a critical aspect of how to use City Tele Coin responsibly.
Customer Support
Should you encounter any issues with account setup, adding funds, or communication, City Tele Coin provides customer support. You can typically reach them via:
- Online Chat: Many service providers offer online chat support for quick resolution of common issues.
- Helpline: City Tele Coin’s helpline can be reached by calling 318-746-1114. This number is useful for more complex problems or when immediate assistance is required.
Fees and Administrative Costs
Be aware that administrative fees may be associated with making payments and purchasing media account funds. These fees are generally based on the purchase amount and are non-refundable. It’s important to review the fee structure before making any transactions to understand the total cost. These fees contribute to the operational costs of providing the service.
Refund Policies
City Tele Coin has specific policies regarding refunds:
- Account Holder Only: Refunds can only be requested by the account holder.
- Minimum Balance: A minimum balance of $1.00 is typically required for a refund to be processed.
- Processing Time: Refunds are generally processed within 30 business days.
- Non-Refundable Administrative Fees: It is important to note that administrative fees paid during transactions are non-refundable, even if the remaining balance is refunded.
Always review the full refund policy on the City Tele Coin website for complete details before adding funds. Understanding these policies is part of knowing how to use City Tele Coin effectively.
By following these guidelines and being aware of the important considerations, you can effectively use City Tele Coin to maintain communication with loved ones in correctional facilities, providing much-needed connection and support.
How to put money on City Tele Coin?
In order to place money on an inmate’s account, you can either visit http://www.citytelecoin.com or put money in the kiosk that is located in the lobby of the Detention Center. Cash or credit cards are accepted.
How do I get my money back from City Tele Coin?
Refunds may be requested from the account holder ONLY. The refund will be refunded back within 30 business days of the request. Note: Administration fees are non-refundable. There must be a minimum balance of $1.00 for the refund to be processed (City Tele Coin cannot write checks for anything less than $1.00).
Is City Tele Coin legit?
City Tele Coin Co., Inc. is BBB Accredited.