A machine and process for accepting customer payments and placing orders for telecommunications services is disclosed. The machine and process include a kiosk operable to accept account set-up information from an individual, accept payment from the individual, collect identifying data from the individual, and communicate with a system to activate a telecommunication account for the individual. The kiosk may be placed wherever quick telecommunication account set-up and payment verification is necessary, for example: a correctional facility or college campus.