If you are an interpreter, click here to read our interpreter’s FAQ.
What languages do you support?
We support over 100 languages. To view or print a full list of our supported languages, click here. Availability is based on language, lead time, and anticipated project details.
Why do you refer to your interpretation and translation services as “SERVICE REFERRALS”?
The Language Connection maintains a vast network of interpreters and translators and refers you to them to aid in bridging linguistic barriers. As these interpreters are not direct staff members, we feel that this technicality helps us uphold our standards of integrity and clear communication with our linguists and clients.
In what industries do your linguists specialize?
We work with linguists who are well-versed in interpreting for medical, social services, court, legal, law enforcement, K-12, special-ed, and business & financial fields. Although this is not an exhaustive list, represented industries vary by language and individual interpreter background. However, the majority of the linguists we work with are experienced in medical and social services interpreting.
Tip: Linguists are better able to assist you when provided a glossary with which to prepare for an interpreting encounter.
How are your linguists assessed?
We rely primarily on assessment credentials from NBCMI, IMIA, and the Washington DSHS. We also use other standardized interpreter testing resources that demonstrate an acceptable competency standard for court, medical and/or social service interpreting.
WHY DOES TLC INCLUDE COMMISSION ON THE INTERPRETER’S 1099 FORM?
TLC exists to support the linguist, not to interpret or translate. As an agent for the interpreter, TLC discloses their commissions rather than concealing them. For more on this topic, here is a word from an experienced CPA.
General Questions
In-Person Interpretation
Are your interpreters trained in PPE usage and airborne/blood-borne pathogens protocol?
Yes. Interpreters are trained in PPE usage and airborne/blood-borne pathogens largely through customer orientations and links provided by most major hospitals that interpreter serve. The Language Connection’s portal tracks the completion of these orientations according to each customer’s needs and requirements.
Are your interpreters immunized according to public health provider guidelines?
Yes. Interpreters tending to medical providers’ in-person interpreting needs are screened for compliance with your organization’s immunization requirements and are electronically attached to your in-person interpretation requests.
Over-the-Phone Interpretation
How long does it take to set up auto-connect OPI services?
The set-up process usually takes two to three days, with various factors affecting duration, such as registration. If you encounter difficulty, don’t hesitate to contact us.
How long does connection take AFTER service is set up?
Connection is immediate! Within moments, your secure connection will be established.
What sets THE LANGUAGE CONNECTION apart from other OPI options?
The Language Connection interpreters work within the United States, where HIPAA is binding and enforceable, unlike organizations that outsource their contracts that would require international intervention. If you have questions about our standards and practices, don’t hesitate to contact us.
ARe YOUR OPI CALLS RECORDED?
No. None of the Language Connection’s calls, neither staff nor OPI/VRI are recorded or transcribed.
Video-Remote Interpretation
How long does it take to set up auto-connect VRI services?
The set-up process usually takes two to three days, with various factors affecting duration, such as registration. If you encounter difficulty, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Is special equipment needed to access your services?
No special equipment is necessary.
Can interpreters access our platform for VRI requests?
No, they cannot.
What sets TLC apart from other VRI options?
TLC interpreters work within the United States, where HIPAA is binding and enforceable, unlike organizations that outsource their contracts that would require international intervention. If you have questions about our standards and practices, don’t hesitate to contact us.
ARe TLC OPI CALLS RECORDED?
No. None of the Language Connection’s calls, neither staff nor OPI/VRI are recorded or transcribed.
What affects the cost of a translation?
Language needed, register (difficulty) of content of the document or file, turnaround time needed for completion, extent of edits, proofreading and formatting required, and volume of request (a paragraph or page. vs. an entire book).