Tips for Freelance Interpreters

When I started out – I really wished I had a checklist or some direction to help me feel more prepared when entering the field of freelance interpreting. For me, trying to immerse myself in the field felt like quite a daunting step as I am someone who prefers a good routine! However, with some tips and direction, it can feel more “safe” or structured. See if these tips help you feel a little more organized (this is by no means a complete list!)

• Create a work email. You will invariably find yourself working for multiple agencies and receiving multiple requests a day. Have all work related information sent to this email address.

• Find a calendar system you like. I personally have both the online version through Google calendar and the spiral bound paper version.

• Consider technology. You will want to have equipment that can send and receive information while you are on the go. I have an android phone and a tablet. I use my phone to get email or text requests and to login to the various company websites to accept or decline jobs. My tablet is good for gathering signatures after an appointment for verification of services provided (I know several who still use the good old fashioned paper system. This works just as well).

• Establish a filing system. If you use the verification of paper system, you will need a container/folder you can carry with you so that you will have additional copies of the forms you need signed available (I am terrible about remembering to refill my copies – hence the electronic version on my tablet). Also, make sure to have a secure locked filing cabinet or container. This container can keep either the copies of the verification of service or be a landing place for the paper trail you will need to maintain and keep confidential.

• Create an envelope system. I purchased many large brown 9x12 envelopes. I create one for each month to store paystubs, invoices, gasoline receipts, or business purchase receipts. All the contents can be labeled on the front for ease of finding the information when tax season comes upon you. I plan to show an example of mine on a future blog to give you some examples.

• Know requirements locally and nationwide for certification or liability insurance. I work for several companies that have reached out online through my RID/NAD certification and one local company actually requires me to carry liability insurance to work for them.

• Update your resume. It is nice to have this readily available and current so you can send it off if companies approach you for assignments (if you are RID certified and are listed, companies will often seek out your services directly).

• Keep a copy of your driver’s license and professional certification/license on hand. You are often asked for copies of these items.

• When accepting assignments, factor in travel time, location and topic. I have told several agencies that I prefer to work the south side of town or would like to be compensated for travel. Negotiate this before the assignment. Try to schedule appointments in the same area so you are not driving all over town. Don’t be afraid to turn down an assignment if you are not familiar with the topic. On the same note, ask the agency or company for more information. It may be something you are perfectly capable of providing.

• Learn which items are deductible for tax purposes. Keep a record of them on your envelope system. This can save you a significant amount of money. Record items such as office supplies, mileage, car repairs and portions of your gadgets used for business purposes.

• Estimate taxes and if possible, pay estimated taxes each check. You can do so on the website www.EFTPS.gov. I know several interpreters who prefer to hire an accountant for tax season. The accountant can keep track of when taxes are due and determine quarterly payments. Accountants can also help you determine which items and activities are deductible through your work as an interpreter.

• Have a budget. I know that can be a little overwhelming. However, if you have an idea of expenses and can figure out how many hours a week or month you need to work, this can significantly reduce your stress level. I even pay my regular bills a month in advance, in case I have a slow month.

• Remember to set aside funds for sick days or vacation time. Pay yourself or take one check and set it aside. Let me tell you - it is tremendous relief to have the money available if you are not feeling well. I am not so good at having vacation money set aside. However, it sure is nice to have a week’s worth of funds set aside so you do not need to cram in work before taking a trip or a taking off a week at Christmas.

• Consider your attire. You never know what assignments you might have. Keep a sweater/coat/wrap that you can wear to dress up your attire or use if the air conditioning is on or the heat is off.

• Purchase business cards and/or ID badge. If the agency you work for does not provide badges, consider making one. You look more professional and the clients and community appreciate being able to identify who you are.