Interpreter’s Hourly Rate =
Language/Dialect
Average interpreter rates in any given area vary based on the language and geographical region. The differences will be based on how common the language is in that particular area, how many other interpreters are competing for assignments, regional cost of living, as well as a variety of other variables.
Type of Setting
Rates will differ based on the function the interpreter will be playing in a proceeding. A statement under oath or a setting with a large audience will generally carry a higher hourly rate than low key appointments.
Concetusive/Simultaneous
Simultaneous interpretation requires, in general, an additional 2 years of intensive study, coursework, and constant practice after an interpreter is already proficient in consecutive interpretation.It is also much more cognitively demanding and exhausting than consecutive interpretation so an interpreter will generally charge a higher per hour rate.
Complexity of Material
Even given the same setting and mode of interpretation, the complexity of material can vary widely. For example,interpreters may differ in their rates for consecutive interpretation in the legal setting based on whether it is a simple car accident case versus a complex intellectual property case.
Certifications/Experience
Interpreters will add the value of their experience and education to their price as they progress in their career. This is also true for any certifications, including medical, court, and conference certifications. In part, this is due to the fact that a more experienced interpreter will deliver a more professional, quality service. And in part, this is due to the fact that obtaining additional education and certifications is costly.
Interpretation Price = Interpreter’s Hourly Rate +
Travel Distance/Time
Generally, the cost of interpretation increases as the distance between the interpreter and service location becomes greater. Many interpreters may not charge additional travel within a half hour distance or may just charge mileage (usually at the Federal rate which is set to $.54 as of Jan. 1, 2016). With greater distances, many interpreters will also charge additional travel time, usually at half their hourly interpretation rate per hour of travel.
Tolls/Parking
Most interpreters also expect to be reimbursed for either tolls and parking or any public transportation cost they will need to take to arrive at the service location.
Other Expenses
For assignments requiring extensive travel, interpreters will require additional expenses such as hotel, food per diem, flights, car rentals, etc. These can vary greatly depending on specific needs of a particular assignment.
Hourly Minimum Note
The hourly minimum may vary based on the type of setting and the interpretation mode, as well as the amount of time the interpreter is being booked for. Many conference interpreters will charge a full-day minimum fee for any conference, while for medical assignments interpreters typically charge a 2-hour minimum, for consecutive legal assignments (such as depositions) a 3-hour minimum usually applies. Please note, if the deposition is expected to last a full day or contains highly complex topic/linguistics they may require a full-day guarantee as well. A full-day minimum fee will also be charged for any assignments involving extensive travel, regardless of other variables.
