WHY IS THERE A TWO HOUR MINIMUM FEE?
WHY IS THERE A TWO HOUR MINIMUM FEE?
Question: WHY IS THERE A TWO-HOUR MINIMUM FEE?
MY meeting is only 1 hour, do I still have to pay for two hours?
The established two hour minimum is a standard business practice in billing for Sign Language Interpreters. More often we refer to it less as a minimum, and more as a fee for service, since it encompasses more than just the time spent interpreting. In order to be available for any assignment, whether in person or virtually, interpreters have to block off their time. This time includes, but is not limited to, being available for pre-conferencing with participants, preparing or reviewing any information or materials pertaining to the request, arriving early onsite, and being available for tech checks or walkthroughs, as some examples. This covers the investment of time the interpreter needs to be prepared, in place, and ready for the assignment.