Tarrant County Jail Phone Calls connect inmates with family, legal counsel, and bail services through a secure, monitored system managed by Securus Technologies. Every housing unit in the Tarrant County Detention Facility has a dedicated phone terminal for outbound calls. Inmates use these lines to arrange bail, update loved ones on their status, or speak with court-appointed attorneys. Local calls within the jail’s area code are free for inmates. Out-of-area calls go through a collect-call service that charges the person receiving the call based on their carrier rates. All calls are recorded and watched under Texas Department of Criminal Justice rules. Each call lasts up to 15 minutes and can only happen between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily.
How Inmate Phone Calls Work in Tarrant County Jail
Each housing unit has one or more phones that inmates can use during approved hours. The system only allows calls to numbers pre-approved by the jail. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All conversations are monitored and stored for safety and legal reasons. Calls are limited to 15 minutes to give everyone a chance to use the phone. After 15 minutes, the line automatically disconnects. If an inmate needs to continue the conversation, they must wait and try again later. This rule helps prevent long waits and ensures fair access for all detainees.
The phone system runs on Securus Technologies, a national provider used in many county jails. Families and lawyers must set up an account with Securus to receive calls or leave voicemails. The account requires the inmate’s ID number, a valid credit card, and an email address. Once funded, the inmate can call approved numbers. The system sends an itemized bill showing each minute used. A daily spending limit of $15 helps control costs and prevents surprise charges.
Setting Up a Securus Account for Tarrant County Jail Calls
To receive calls from an inmate at Tarrant County Jail, you must create a Securus account. Start by visiting the official Securus website or using their mobile app. Enter the inmate’s full name and booking number, which you can find using the online inmate search tool. Provide a valid email address and credit card information. The system will verify your details and link your account to the inmate’s phone line.
After setup, add funds to your account. Securus accepts major credit cards and debit cards. You can also deposit money online, by phone, or at kiosks inside the jail lobby. Each transaction may include a small processing fee. Once funded, the inmate can call your number during approved hours. You’ll receive a notification when a call comes in. If you miss it, the inmate can leave a voicemail that stays active for 48 hours before being deleted.
Call Costs, Fees, and Billing for Tarrant County Jail
Phone call costs depend on the type of call and location. Local calls within the Fort Worth area code are free for inmates. These calls do not require a Securus account or payment. However, out-of-area calls are treated as collect calls. The person receiving the call pays based on their phone carrier’s collect-call rates. These fees can be higher than standard long-distance charges.
Securus also charges fees for account funding and call usage. The daily spending cap is $15 per inmate. This includes all calls made in one day. If the limit is reached, no more calls can be placed until the next day. Each call is billed per minute, and the total appears on your monthly statement. You can view detailed invoices online or request paper copies by mail. For help with billing, contact Securus customer service or the Tarrant County Telephone Operator at 817‑884‑1111 during business hours.
Call Monitoring, Recording, and Privacy Rules
All phone calls from Tarrant County Jail are recorded and monitored. This is required by state law and jail policy. Recordings may be used in investigations or court cases. Inmates and call recipients are notified of this rule before the call begins. The system plays a warning tone at the start of each session.
Calls between inmates and their attorneys are treated differently. These conversations may be exempt from monitoring if properly identified. Inmates must request attorney-only calls in advance. The jail verifies the attorney’s credentials before allowing private communication. Even then, the call may still be logged for security purposes, but the content is not reviewed unless there’s a suspected threat.
Family members should avoid discussing sensitive topics like ongoing investigations or escape plans. Such conversations can be used as evidence. Keep calls focused on personal updates, legal coordination, or emotional support. Remember that anything said can be heard by jail staff or law enforcement.
Inmate Search and Booking Information
Before setting up phone services, you need the inmate’s booking number. Use the official Tarrant County Inmate Search portal to find this information. The database is updated in real time and shows current detainees. You can search by name, date of birth, or booking date. Each entry includes the inmate’s photo, charges, bond amount, housing unit, and court schedule.
The search tool also displays the “Magistration Docket,” which lists recent bookings. For example, an inmate named Rance Magby was booked on April 15, 2023, for drug possession and DWI. His bond was set at $7,500, and his court date was May 22, 2023. This level of detail helps families track legal progress and plan visits or calls.
For phone inquiries, call the County Telephone Operator at 817‑884‑1111 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also contact the Detention Bureau at 817‑884‑3000 or the Corrections Center at 817‑884‑3116. Staff can confirm an inmate’s status, approved phone numbers, and account balance.
Voicemail, Messaging, and Call Limits
Inmates can leave voicemail messages if the recipient doesn’t answer. These messages are stored for up to 48 hours. After that, they are automatically deleted. There is no way to save or extend the storage time. Families should check for missed calls regularly to avoid losing important messages.
Each inmate is limited to 15-minute call sessions. This ensures fair access for all detainees. If a call is cut off, the inmate must wait before trying again. The system tracks usage and enforces the daily $15 spending cap. Once the limit is reached, no more calls can be made that day.
Voicemail and call logs are accessible through the Securus portal. You can listen to messages, view call history, and manage approved numbers. Changes to the contact list must be made by the inmate through jail staff. Family members cannot add or remove numbers directly.
Money Deposits and Commissary Funding
Inmates need funds for commissary items, but money can also support phone usage. Tarrant County offers five ways to deposit money:
- Smart Device App: Free Android and iOS apps let you send money directly. Fee: $0.99 per transaction.
- Online Portal: Visit www.accesscorrections.com for the lowest fee—just 1% of the deposit amount.
- Toll-Free Phone: Call 866‑345‑1884 anytime. Bilingual agents assist with credit card or bank transfers.
- Lobby Kiosk: Located at 100 N. Lamar St, Fort Worth. Accepts cash, debit, and prepaid cards. Receipts are redeemable within 24 hours.
- Mail-In Money Order: Send a minimum $1 money order to the inmate’s name and booking number. Use USPS only.
All deposits go into the inmate’s commissary account. Funds can be used for snacks, hygiene products, and phone calls. The daily phone spending cap still applies, even with sufficient balance.
Visitation, Contact, and Facility Details
The main Tarrant County Corrections Center is located at 100 N. Lamar Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102. The Mansfield satellite jail is at 817‑804‑5731. Visitation schedules are alphabetical: inmates with last names A–L receive visitors on Saturdays and Mondays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors must arrive by 8:30 p.m. to be processed.
All visitors need a government-issued photo ID. Children under 12 must be with an adult. Video visitation may be available for some inmates. Check the inmate’s status online or call 817‑884‑3116 to confirm eligibility and rules.
For media requests, including mugshots, mail to: Tarrant County Corrections Center, 100 N. Lamar Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102, Attention: Media Relations. Requests take up to 10 business days. A small fee applies for copies.
Compliance, Oversight, and Jail Standards
Tarrant County Detention Bureau follows strict rules set by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS). The facility has passed annual inspections since 1995. Requirements include at least 150 square feet per inmate, daily medical staffing for eight hours, and quarterly emergency drills.
An independent inspector reviews grievance logs, staff training, and maintenance records. All phone systems meet state security and privacy standards. The jail also complies with federal laws on inmate communication rights.
Families can file complaints or requests through the Records Division. Written inquiries are processed within 10 business days. A copying fee may apply based on the county fee schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarrant County Jail Phone Calls
Many people have similar questions about calling inmates in Tarrant County. Below are the most common concerns, answered clearly and directly based on official policies and real user experiences.
Can I receive incoming calls from an inmate at Tarrant County Jail?
No, inmates cannot receive incoming calls. The phone system only allows outbound calls from jail terminals. Family members and attorneys must have a Securus account to accept calls. The inmate initiates all communication. If you miss a call, the inmate can leave a voicemail that lasts 48 hours. There is no way for inmates to call back or return missed calls directly. All contact must go through the approved Securus system.
Are phone calls between inmates and their lawyers private?
Yes, but only if properly requested. Inmates must ask jail staff for an attorney-only call in advance. The jail verifies the attorney’s license and contact information. Once approved, the call is not monitored for content, though it may still be logged for security. Never assume privacy—always confirm the call is marked as legal communication. Discussing case details over regular calls risks exposure, as all non-attorney calls are recorded and may be used in court.
How much do out-of-area calls cost, and who pays?
Out-of-area calls are processed as collect calls. The person receiving the call pays based on their phone carrier’s collect-call rates, which are often higher than standard long-distance fees. Local calls within the Fort Worth area code are free for inmates. To avoid surprise charges, set up a Securus account and fund it in advance. This lets you control costs with the $15 daily spending cap and receive itemized bills. Always check your phone bill for unexpected fees.
What happens if the daily $15 phone limit is reached?
Once the $15 daily limit is hit, no more calls can be made that day. The system blocks further usage until midnight. Inmates can still leave voicemails if the recipient doesn’t answer, but new calls are paused. Funds in the commissary account do not override this cap. Plan important calls early in the day. You can monitor usage through the Securus portal and receive alerts when nearing the limit.
How do I find an inmate’s booking number to set up phone services?
Use the free online Inmate Search tool at inmatesearch.tarrantcounty.com. Enter the person’s name, date of birth, or approximate booking date. The database updates every 15 minutes and shows current detainees, charges, bond amounts, and housing units. You can also call the County Telephone Operator at 817‑884‑1111 during business hours. Have the inmate’s full name and birth date ready. The booking number is required to create a Securus account and approve phone contacts.
Can I send money to an inmate to help with phone calls?
Yes, but funds go into the commissary account, not directly to phone credit. Deposit money via the Securus app, online at accesscorrections.com, by phone at 866‑345‑1884, at the lobby kiosk, or by mailing a money order. The inmate can use the balance for snacks, hygiene items, or phone calls—subject to the $15 daily cap. Processing fees vary: $0.99 for apps, 1% online, higher for phone or kiosk. Always include the inmate’s name and booking number.
Are there any times when phone calls are not allowed?
Yes. Calls are only permitted between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily. Each session is limited to 15 minutes. Calls may be suspended during emergencies, lockdowns, or facility inspections. Holidays and weekends follow the same schedule. If the system is down for maintenance, calls resume as soon as service is restored. Check the jail’s website or call 817‑884‑3116 for real-time updates on phone availability.
For official information, contact:
Tarrant County Corrections Center
100 N. Lamar Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102
Phone: 817‑884‑3116
Detention Bureau: 817‑884‑3000
County Telephone Operator: 817‑884‑1111 (7 a.m.–5 p.m., Mon–Fri)