To get GTL verified, submit your personal information and a clear copy of a valid government-issued photo ID to the GettingOut platform (now operated by ViaPath Technologies) through one of three channels: the website or mobile app, a self-service kiosk in the facility lobby, or a paper form sent by mail or email. Once the facility approves you, you can receive calls, deposit funds, leave voicemails, and schedule video visits with your incarcerated loved one.
What You Need Before You Start
You must be at least 18 years old to use the platform. Gather these items first:
- Your full legal name, date of birth, current street address, phone number, and email address.
- The last four digits of your Social Security number. You can leave this blank if you don’t have an SSN or don’t know it.
- A valid government-issued photo ID. Accepted forms include a driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, or a U.S. or foreign passport. It must be current and clearly legible.
- The inmate’s name and the name of the facility where they are housed.
Requirements vary by facility. Some require verification only for video visits; others require it before you can receive a collect call or add money to an account.
Three Ways to Submit
Online Through the Website or App
Create a GettingOut account if you don’t have one, then go to the verification section. Enter your personal information and upload clear images of your photo ID. You’ll also need to confirm ownership of your phone number by responding to a text message or phone call from the system.
At a Facility Lobby Kiosk
Many facilities have self-service kiosks in their lobbies. Scan or swipe your photo ID at the kiosk and take your picture on the spot. This is a good option if you’re already visiting in person or having trouble with the online process.
By Mail or Email
A printable Telmate Verified form is available on the GettingOut website. Fill it out, attach a clear copy of your photo ID, and submit it by email to verify@telmate.com or by mail to Telmate Verify, PO Box 1137, Fruitland, ID 83619. This is the slowest route but works without internet access or a smartphone.
How Long Approval Takes
Once you submit, the facility itself reviews your information, so processing times vary and are largely outside GettingOut’s control. Simple verifications for phone calls sometimes go through quickly. Video visit approval can take longer at facilities that run additional background checks.
Check your status by logging into your GettingOut account and looking at your profile or dashboard. The platform will also send email or in-app notifications when your status changes.
If Your Verification Is Rejected
Rejections usually trace to a few fixable problems:
- Blurry or unreadable ID images. Retake the photo in good lighting with all four corners of the ID visible.
- Mismatched information. If the name or address on your ID doesn’t match what you typed into the form, correct the form so both are consistent.
- Expired ID. The system requires a currently valid ID. Renew yours or use a different accepted form.
- Phone verification failure. If you didn’t receive or respond to the confirmation text or call, try again and confirm the number you entered can receive messages.
After correcting the issue, resubmit through the same method you used originally. If repeated attempts keep getting rejected, contact GettingOut customer support at 1-866-516-0115.
What You Can Do Once Verified
Approved contacts can receive calls, deposit money into the inmate’s account, leave voicemails, and schedule video visits. To schedule a visit, log into your account, go to the Visit link or Contacts tab, search for your loved one by facility and name, and pick a date, time, and length. The cost displays before you confirm, and your loved one must accept the invitation before the visit is finalized. Test your webcam and microphone ahead of time, because technical problems during a short visit window usually can’t be made up.