Freelance business translator

Exporters and importers, tourism and education providers, e-commerce shops, agencies and larger translation companies.

Per word or per project, with higher rates for specialist fields such as legal, medical or technical. Some clients pay a monthly retainer for ongoing work.

• Strong writing in your target language
• Knowledge of a specialist field
• Comfortable with translation software and working to deadlines

• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance, which some clients ask for
• Late-paying clients, so use clear written quotes and payment terms
• Machine translation is lowering prices for simple work, so aim for specialist or high-quality jobs
• Check with your local council whether a home-based business needs approval
• Check when you need to register for GST as your turnover grows

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on your translation software, insurance and set-up. Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your specialty, your clients and how much work you take on.

Check whether clients expect professional indemnity and public liability insurance, whether your council needs to approve a home-based business, and when to register for GST. Use clear written quotes and payment terms to guard against late-paying clients.

You need strong writing in your target language, knowledge of a specialist field, and comfort with translation software and deadlines. Estimates suggest at least around 8 hours a week. Machine translation is lowering prices for simple work, so aim for specialist jobs.