Becoming a Freelance Interpreter

According to ZipRecruiter.com, the average freelancing American Sign Language Interpreter makes an annual income between $50,000-$69,000. While this pay reflects great opportunity for financial success, it doesn’t include the added benefits of flexibility, independence, and freedoms that come along with freelance interpreting. With fluctuation based on national location, Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, and individual availability, freelance ASL interpreting is a needed profession that offers great opportunity for economic success and societal impact. If you are in the early stages of considering a career in ASL interpretation, or if you are a certified interpreter looking to become a freelance contractor with your skills, below are a few steps to help you get started on your new journey.  

Getting Started…

1. Certification and Credentials: Ensure you have the necessary certifications. Due to contract requirements, we at DSU require a minimum of one of the following certifications or equivalent: NIC, BEI Advanced, ED:K-12/EIPA 4.0+ held for 3-7 years. 

Education: It all begins with learning the language. Multiple accredited programs and institutions across the country offer an array of ASL certification programs and degrees. Learn more here: https://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/liberal-arts/asl/  

Certification and Maintenance: Consider certification through a national governing entity like RID. This equips you for state licensure approval and provides certification maintenance resources like CEU courses and workshops. Learn more here: https://rid.org/certification/  

 
2. Business Setup: Decide if you’ll operate as a sole proprietor or form an LLC. Register your business, if necessary, and obtain any required licenses for your area of business.  

While the setup can feel complicated, taking the time at the start to find what’s right for you can make all the difference in the long haul. Learn more about the pros and cons of sole proprietorship and LLCs for your business here: https://najit.org/proteus/look-business-structures-translators-interpreters-summer-2017/

3. Insurance: Having insurance isn’t for planning what should happen but planning for what could happen. Unforeseen circumstances arise easily, and high stakes assignments are always possible in the world of ASL interpreting.  

Obtaining professional liability insurance protects yourself against potential claims of negligence, malpractice, or breach of standard. Learn more about freelance interpreter insurance premiums and applications here: https://dhhinsurance.com/sign-language-interpreter-liability-insurance

4. Marketing: Create a professional brand, including an online identity and professional references. Develop a website or social media presence to attract clients. 

LinkedIn is a powerful, free tool for personal branding and creating an online professional identity: Learn more about building a strong LinkedIn profile and it’s benefits for freelancers here: https://www.freelance.pizza/post/linkedin-for-freelancers-great-profiles-and-why-they-stand-out

 
5. Networking: Join professional organizations like the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and attend industry events to build connections and gain referrals. 

Networking is more possible than ever in the digital age. Webinars, digital conferences, and broadcasted summits allow for networking and development all from the comfort of your home. Learn more about RID offered webinars here: https://rid.org/programs/webinars/  

Setting Your Rates…

1. Market Research: Check what other freelance ASL interpreters in your area are charging. This helps you gauge competitive pricing. 
2. Experience Level: Adjust your rates based on your experience, certifications, and specialization. 
3. Type of Assignment: Different assignments (e.g., medical, legal, educational) may require different rates due to the complexity and preparation needed. Many agencies and customers allow for differential based pricing, most commonly in the following areas: normal business hours, after hours/weekend, legal/specialized.  
4. Expenses: Consider your overhead costs, including travel, equipment, and administrative expenses. Many interpreters choose to include travel expenses at an hourly rate on a case-by-case assignment basis.  

Filling Your Schedule…

1. Connect with Agencies: Local and national agencies offer work and connections directly to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community to fill your schedule. Many agencies are familiar with working with freelancer rates and policies and offer VRI, onsite, and specialized work depending on your preferences.  Connect with DSU here to learn more about joining our team: https://deafservicesunlimited.com/about-us/join-our-team/

2. Networking: Build relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations that might need interpreting services. 

3. Online Platforms: Use freelance job boards, such as Upwork or ProZ, and ASL-specific platforms to find opportunities. 

4. Professional Organizations: Leverage memberships in organizations like RID or state-level associations, which often have job boards or referral services. 

5. Direct Outreach: Contact potential clients directly, including companies, schools, and non-profits, to offer your services. 

6. Referrals: Ask satisfied clients for referrals or testimonials, which can help you secure new clients.