Brevard County Jail Inmate Phone Calls are managed through Smart Communications, a third-party service that handles all inmate calling services for the facility. Families and friends can set up prepaid accounts online by entering the inmate’s ID number and choosing a monthly credit amount. Alternatively, callers may contact Smart Communications customer service directly to add minutes using a credit card. All outbound calls are billed per minute, with current rates published on the vendor’s official website. The jail’s main phone number, 321‑690‑1500, provides general information about the phone system. Physical mail sent to inmates is also processed through Smart Communications, ensuring all correspondence links to the correct inmate account.
How to Set Up a Prepaid Phone Account for Inmates
Setting up a phone account for an inmate at Brevard County Jail requires only basic information and takes less than five minutes. Start by visiting the Smart Communications website and selecting “Create Account.” You’ll need the inmate’s full legal name and their unique ID number, which can be found using the online inmate search tool on the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office website. Once registered, choose a monthly credit amount—options typically range from $10 to $50. Funds are added instantly and allow for immediate calling. If you prefer phone support, call Smart Communications at their toll-free number during business hours. Have your credit card ready and the inmate’s details handy. The system verifies identities before activating any new account.
Call Rates, Billing, and Payment Options
All calls from Brevard County Jail are charged per minute, with rates varying based on call type and duration. Local calls usually cost less than long-distance ones. Rates are clearly listed on the Smart Communications website and updated regularly. Billing occurs in real time—each minute used reduces your prepaid balance immediately. If your balance runs low mid-call, the system will disconnect once funds are exhausted. Payments can be made online via credit or debit card, over the phone with a representative, or in person at the jail lobby kiosk. Cash deposits are accepted at the kiosk but require the inmate’s ID and facility locator code. All payments post within 24 hours.
Finding an Inmate’s ID Number and Housing Unit
To use the phone system or send money, you must know the inmate’s official ID number and current housing location. The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office offers a free online search portal where users enter a first name, last name, or booking number. Results show full name, booking date, charges, bond status, and assigned housing unit. For faster help, call 321‑690‑1500 and ask for the inmate locator service. Staff can confirm an inmate’s presence and provide their ID number if you have proper identification. Always double-check spelling and details—errors delay services like phone access or money transfers.
Video On Demand (VOD) Calls: How They Work
Inmates at Brevard County Jail can initiate Video on Demand (VOD) calls to approved contacts. These are not scheduled visits but spontaneous video sessions started by the inmate. When activated, the system sends a notification to the registered phone number. The recipient has exactly three minutes to answer before the call drops. VOD calls are recorded for security and monitoring purposes. Equipment is provided by the jail—no personal devices are allowed. Costs are billed per minute at the same rate as voice calls. Only individuals with active prepaid accounts can receive these calls. Approval requires completing a visitor application and passing a background check.
Visiting Rules and Costs Compared to Phone Calls
Visits at Brevard County Jail are available in 15- or 30-minute slots, priced at $0.25 per minute. A short visit costs $3.75; a longer one costs $7.50. Unlike phone calls, visits must be scheduled in advance through the sheriff’s website or by calling the jail. Visitors must present valid photo ID and pass through security screening. Minors under 18 require adult supervision. Phone calls offer more flexibility—no scheduling needed, and calls can happen anytime the inmate is available. However, VOD calls have time limits and strict response windows. Both options require prepaid accounts, but visiting fees are paid at check-in, not deducted from phone balances.
Sending Money to an Inmate’s Commissary Account
Depositing funds into an inmate’s commissary account uses the TouchPay system. Three methods exist: online at www.touchpayonline.com, by calling 1‑866‑204‑1603, or in person at the jail lobby kiosk. Each transaction requires the inmate’s CID number and exact name spelling. Online transfers use credit or debit cards and post within one business day. Cash deposits at the kiosk also clear in 24 hours. Funds can be used for phone minutes, snacks, hygiene items, or other approved purchases. If a court-ordered payment (called a “Purge”) is overdue, no new deposits are allowed until it’s resolved. Always keep receipts for your records.
Mail Policies and How They Connect to Phone Services
All physical mail sent to Brevard County Jail inmates must include the inmate’s full legal name and ID number. Mail is processed through Smart Communications, the same vendor that manages phone calls and electronic messaging. This ensures all communications—letters, emails, and calls—are linked to one account. Letters should be addressed to: [Inmate’s Full Name & ID#], c/o Smart Communications / Brevard County Jail, P.O. Box [assigned by system], Cocoa, FL 32927. Do not send cash, stamps, or contraband. Packages are not accepted. Electronic messages can be sent through the Smart Communications portal and viewed by inmates on approved devices during designated times.
Jail Contact Information and Operating Hours
The Brevard County Jail is located at 860 Camp Road, Cocoa, FL 32927. The main phone number is 321‑690‑1500, available Monday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Staff can assist with inmate lookup, visiting schedules, money transfers, and phone account questions. The administrative office, located at 700 Park Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922, handles written requests and official correspondence. Visiting hours vary by housing unit—check the sheriff’s website or call ahead. The lobby kiosk for cash deposits operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Always verify current hours before visiting, as holidays may affect schedules.
Common Problems and How to Resolve Them
Call quality issues, failed connections, or missing funds are common concerns. First, check your account balance—low funds cause disconnections. If calls drop frequently, contact Smart Communications support at their toll-free number. For missing deposits, verify the inmate’s ID number and name spelling match official records. Delays happen if court holds or “Purge” orders block transactions. If you can’t locate an inmate, confirm they’re still housed at Brevard County Jail—some are transferred to state facilities without notice. Keep all confirmation numbers and receipts. Escalate unresolved issues to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office via phone or mail.
Legal Rights and Monitoring of Inmate Calls
All phone calls from Brevard County Jail are recorded and may be monitored by jail staff or law enforcement. Inmates and callers are notified of this policy before the first call. These recordings can be used as evidence in criminal investigations. However, calls between inmates and their attorneys are exempt if properly identified. To protect privacy, always verify who you’re speaking to—impersonation occurs. Do not discuss ongoing cases, share personal financial details, or plan illegal activity. Violations can result in loss of calling privileges or additional charges. The jail follows Florida state laws and federal regulations regarding inmate communication rights.
Alternatives to Traditional Phone Calls
Besides standard voice calls and VOD sessions, Brevard County Jail supports electronic messaging through Smart Communications. Friends and family can send text-based messages via the online portal. Inmates receive them on secure tablets during approved hours. This option is cheaper than voice calls and doesn’t require real-time availability. However, responses may be delayed. Another alternative is writing physical letters, which are less expensive but take longer to deliver. Some nonprofit organizations offer free calling programs for low-income families—check local resources. Always confirm which services are active, as policies change based on facility needs or vendor contracts.
How to Cancel or Modify a Phone Account
To cancel a prepaid phone account, log into your Smart Communications profile and select “Close Account.” Remaining balances are non-refundable but can be transferred to another inmate if approved. To change payment methods or update contact info, use the account settings page. For assistance, call customer service during business hours. Provide your account number and verify identity. Note that canceled accounts cannot be reactivated for 30 days. If you’re moving out of state or no longer wish to receive calls, update your preferences to block incoming VOD requests. Keep records of all changes for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brevard County Jail Inmate Phone Calls
Q: Can I call an inmate directly from my phone?
A: No. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All communication must be initiated by the inmate using jail phones or VOD systems. You must have a prepaid account with Smart Communications to receive calls or video notifications. Without an active account, the system will not connect you. This policy prevents unwanted calls and ensures all conversations are monitored for safety. If you miss a call, ask the inmate to try again or set up a regular calling schedule. Always keep your phone nearby during expected call times.
Q: Are there discounts for frequent callers or large deposits?
A: Smart Communications does not offer volume discounts or promotional rates for Brevard County Jail calls. All users pay the same per-minute rate regardless of usage. However, larger prepaid deposits reduce the need for frequent reloads and minimize transaction fees. Some third-party services advertise lower rates but are not affiliated with the jail—using them may violate facility rules. Stick to official channels to avoid account suspension. Rates are set by contract between the jail and vendor, so changes occur only during renewal periods.
Q: What happens if my call gets disconnected due to low balance?
A: If your prepaid balance reaches zero during a call, the system immediately ends the conversation. You will hear a tone or message indicating insufficient funds. The inmate cannot continue calling until more money is added. To avoid interruptions, monitor your balance regularly through the Smart Communications website or mobile app. Set up low-balance alerts if available. Add funds before important calls or schedule top-ups weekly. Partial minutes are not saved—always ensure enough credit covers the full expected call length.
Q: Can children receive inmate calls?
A: Yes, minors can receive calls if they are listed as approved contacts on the inmate’s visitor form. A parent or guardian must set up the prepaid account and supervise all communications. Children under 18 cannot create accounts independently. VOD calls require the child to answer within three minutes, so ensure they’re present and ready. Jail staff may monitor calls involving minors more closely. Never allow children to discuss sensitive topics or share personal information. Report any inappropriate behavior to the sheriff’s office immediately.
Q: How do I know if an inmate has been released or transferred?
A: Use the online inmate search tool on the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s name or booking number to check current status. Released inmates disappear from the roster within 24 hours. Transferred individuals may show a new housing unit or “Not Found” result. Call 321‑690‑1500 for confirmation if the search is unclear. Smart Communications accounts remain active until manually closed—stop deposits if the inmate is no longer at the facility. Keep copies of release documents for your records.
Q: Are international calls allowed?
A: Yes, but rates are significantly higher than domestic calls. Smart Communications supports international calling to most countries. Check their website for specific rates and supported regions. You must have sufficient prepaid balance to cover the full cost before the call connects. Some nations block calls from correctional facilities—verify compatibility first. International VOD calls follow the same three-minute rule. Time zone differences may affect availability. Always test with a short call before planning longer conversations.
Q: What should I do if I suspect fraud or unauthorized charges?
A: Contact Smart Communications customer service immediately at their toll-free number. Report suspicious activity, such as unknown calls or unexpected deductions. Request a detailed call log and transaction history. If fraud is confirmed, ask for a refund or credit adjustment. Also notify the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office—they can flag the inmate’s account for review. Never share your account password or payment details with others. Use two-factor authentication if offered. Keep all communication records for at least six months.
Official Website: https://www.brevardsheriff.com
Phone: 321‑690‑1500
Address: 860 Camp Road, Cocoa, FL 32927
Visiting Hours: Vary by unit—call ahead or check online
Lobby Kiosk Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
