Community and Business Interpreter

Clinics, law firms, schools, local businesses, event organizers and interpreting agencies.

Hourly rate, often with a minimum booking of one to two hours, plus travel time for on-site jobs. Specialist fields such as medical or legal usually pay more.

• Strong spoken fluency in two languages
• Quick listening and memory
• Calm, neutral and professional manner

• Medical and court interpreting often require specific training or certification, so check requirements in your state
• Ask about general and professional liability insurance
• Confidentiality rules such as HIPAA may apply in healthcare settings
• Work can be irregular and travel time may be unpaid, so factor it into your rates

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $300 to $3,000, depending on any training you take, equipment for phone or video work, and insurance. Your own choices on courses and certification will move the total.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $4,500, depending on how many assignments you take and your rates. Plan on at least about 8 hours a week. Work can be irregular, and unpaid travel time should be built into your rates.

Medical and court interpreting often require specific training or certification, so check requirements in your state. Confidentiality rules such as HIPAA may apply in healthcare settings, and you should ask about general and professional liability insurance.