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NOTICE TO FRIENDS AND FAMILIES OF NEW YORK STATE INMATES
Over the next few months the New York State Department of Correctional Services, Unisys
Corporation, and Value Added Communications (VAC) will be installing a new inmate
telephone system at each state operated facility within New York State . The new system will
replace the existing system operated by Global Tel Link.
Once the new system is installed the cost of a phone call will be reduced. The new rate will be
less than a nickel ($.048) per minute for calls terminating within the Unites States and Canada ,
and there will no longer be any connect fees. For example, the chart below shows a comparison
of the new and old rate for the average twenty minute call.
Description
Set-up fee per call
Charge per minute
Cost of a 20 minute call
Old Rate
$1.28
$.068
$2.64
New Rate
$0.00
$.048
$0.96
In 2007 the New York State legislature passed a law that permanently eliminates commissions
paid to the State for inmate calls. This law further stipulates that the phone contract must allow
for collect and pre-paid calling services. Both of these services will be included in the new
contract. Please note that the Department of Corrections will not be providing inmate-paid debit
calling at this time.
Unisys Corporation and Value Added Communications will NOT be responsible for any refunds
or reimbursement of any funds that may be remaining in Global Tel Link accounts. Once the
telephone system has been completely cut over at a facility, Global Tel Link account holders are
encouraged to seek a refund directly from Global Tel Link by calling 1-866-230-7761.
Under the new system, the first time an inmate calls each of the numbers on their allowed list,
the system will attempt to complete the call and bill it as a collect call on the called party’s phone
bill. If the call cannot be completed because there is no billing arrangement with the called
party’s telephone company or for some other restriction, an automated system will prompt the
called party to set up a pre-paid account with Value Added Communications.
If there are any problems or questions you can contact Value Added Communications (VAC) at
1-800-777-2522 or on the internet at www.myvconnect.com. If a prepaid account is established
it can be reviewed, managed, and funded via the 800 number or the internet address. Friends and
families may also set-up or fund pre-paid accounts by mailing a Money Order or Cashier’s
Check to: Value-Added Communications, Inc. Dept. 2430, PO Box 122430 , Dallas, TX 753122430 . When filling out the Money Order or Cashier's Check please make it payable to VAC. In
the memo line, input the ten digit phone number that you would like the funds to be placed on in
order to receive collect calls.
Transition Schedule: As of February 11, 2010, t he new system is currently installed at the
following facilities:
Hudson
Oneida
Ulster
Transition of all remaining sites is expected to be completed by the end of April 2010.
