4 Questions to Ask When Looking for an ASL Interpreting Agency

When looking for an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting agency, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you choose a reliable and qualified service provider. Here are four questions to consider when searching for an ASL interpreting agency to work with:

1. What is the agency’s experience and expertise?

• Ask about the agency’s history, how long they’ve been in business, and their experience in providing ASL interpretation services. Inquire about the types of events, settings, or industries they have experience with. A well-established agency with a track record of success is often a good indicator of reliability.
• 5 Star Interpreting boasts a rich history of over 10 years in the industry, providing ASL interpreting services to a wide range of clients including but not limited to: medical practices, law firms, large-scale conferences, K-12 education, religious services, and corporate environments.

2. Are the interpreters certified and qualified?

• It’s crucial to ensure that the interpreters provided by the agency are certified and qualified. In the United States, certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) is a standard. Ask the agency about the qualifications and certifications of their interpreters to ensure they meet the necessary standards for ASL interpretation.
• At 5 Star Interpreting, we take pride in our commitment to excellence. Our interpreters are not only certified and recognized by the State of Utah Interpreter Program and by the State of Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission, but they also undergo continuous professional development and training to stay at the forefront of best practices in ASL interpretation. We also encourage the interpreters we work with to continue advancing their profession to attain their RID national certification.

3. What is the agency’s process for matching interpreters to assignments?

• It is important to gain an understanding of how an agency schedules interpreters. You can ask about their process for matching interpreters to specific assignments, considering factors like language proficiency, expertise in the subject matter, and any unique communication needs of the Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals.
• Being Deaf-owned, 5 Star Interpreting understands the importance of matching the right interpreter to each assignment. Our agency has a rigorous process for selecting interpreters, considering their expertise, linguistic proficiency, and specific client needs. This ensures that the interpreter is perfectly suited for the assignment, whether it’s in a legal deposition or a medical consultation. We look for the best possible match whenever possible!

4. What is the agency’s pricing and scheduling structure?

• Inquire about the agency’s pricing model, including rates, fees, and any additional charges that might apply. Ask about their scheduling process and availability. It’s important to understand the financial aspect and logistical aspects of working with the agency to ensure it aligns with your budget and timeline.
• 5 Star Interpreting believes in transparent and fair pricing. Our clients appreciate our competitive rates and our willingness to work within their budget. We’re also known for our flexible scheduling options, ensuring that we can accommodate your needs, even on short notice.

Additionally, you may want to request references or client testimonials to gauge the agency’s reputation and the quality of their services. Choosing the right ASL interpreting agency can make a significant difference in the accessibility and effectiveness of communication for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, so thorough research and asking the right questions are essential.

Don’t just take our word for it! We encourage you to speak with our satisfied clients who have benefited from our top-notch ASL interpretation services. They can vouch for the quality and reliability of 5 Star Interpreting.

Ready to book an interpreter in Utah or Illinois? Get started with our fast and easy request form!