JPay in the Rearview Mirror: Ohio Gets a New Pen Pal Pal!
So, you've got a friend, family member, or maybe that neighbor who borrowed your hedge trimmer (and never returned it) doing some time in Ohio. You used to send them funny cat videos (because, let's face it, prison internet ain't exactly Netflix-worthy) and top up their canteen funds with JPay. But hold on to your sporks, things have changed in the Buckeye State!
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| What Replaced Jpay In Ohio |
New Sheriff in Town (Sort Of)
As of July 2023, JPay got politely shown the exit door. Don't worry, it wasn't a prison riot over lumpy mashed potatoes (although, that would be a story for another day). The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction decided to go with a new provider for inmate communication services: ViaPath Technologies/GTL.
Now, before you panic about learning a whole new system, fret not! GTL isn't exactly a fresh face on the block. They've been around the prison phone call circuit for a while. Think of it as getting a new pen pal pal – familiar concept, new name tag.
So, How Do I Stay Connected with My Incarcerated...Acquaintance?
ViaPath offers pretty much everything JPay did: emails, video chats (cat videos a-go-go!), and sending money for canteen goodies (just maybe skip the hedge trimmer this time). Here's the skinny on getting set up:
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
- Head to ViaPath's website: They don't have singing telegrams or anything quite that exciting, but you'll find all the info you need to create an account.
- Find your friend: You'll need their inmate ID to link them up in your account.
- Top up that account: This lets your incarcerated buddy enjoy the finer things in prison life, like ramen that doesn't taste like sadness.
Important Note: While Ohio doesn't get a kickback from these services, there are still fees involved. So, plan your budget accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to create an account with ViaPath?
Head to their website and follow the sign-up prompts. It's like online banking, but for prison pals!
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
How to find an inmate on ViaPath?
You'll need their inmate ID. This should be available from the correctional facility where they're staying.
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How to send money to an inmate?
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
ViaPath offers various payment options through their website, making it easy to be a financial fairy godmother (or godfather).
How much does it cost to use ViaPath?
Fees vary depending on the service, but ViaPath should have a breakdown on their website.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
Can I still send my friend funny cat videos?
Unfortunately, video messages typically aren't allowed. But you can send emails with text and pictures (think wholesome dog memes instead).
There you have it! JPay may be gone, but staying connected with your favorite Ohio inmate is still possible. Now go forth and spread some cheer (and maybe a few bad jokes) through the power of technology! Just remember, no hedge trimmers this time.
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