Teresa Giudice -- Crime Pays, Bitches ... Watch Me On TV Behind Bars!

Teresa Giudice has figured out a way to make crime pay, because Bravo has opened its checkbook to her family for a special in which she makes guest appearances ... from the slammer.

We've learned Teresa will appear by prison telephone on a 2-part special, showing how Joe is caring for their 4 kids while his wife is serving out her 15-month sentence.

Bravo couldn't get a camera inside, so pay phone is the next best option.

As for money ... there's no problem with Bravo paying Teresa an appearance fee, because the "Son of Sam" law -- which prohibits people from profiting off certain crimes -- only applies to certain violent offenses.