Frequently Asked Questions
Check below for our most often asked questions. Can't find what you are looking for? Contact us at interpreter@myterps.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Video Interpreting
What is the difference between Video Relay Service and Video Interpreting?
VRS is for telecommunications purposes where a phone conversation takes place between a sign language user and a non-sign language user in separate physical locations. Video interpreting is used to facilitate a conversation where both the sign language user and non-sign language user are in the same room.
When and where are your services available?
Video and phone are available nationwide on-demand or scheduled, any time (24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year).
What video device do I need to connect to the video platform?
Global system offers a variety of ways to utilize the service. The real benefit of the Global process is unlike other companies that require specialized equipment resulting in additional purchases or expensive long-term lease programs, Global’s process allows for ease of operation. The service may be used with PCs, laptop computers, tablets Android and iPhones, all within a fully compliant ADA /HIPAA secure network. This results in huge cost savings for our clients.
How does the audio and video work?
With the Global system, a few simple steps will connect you with the video interpreter providing exceptionally clear, crisp video and audio using your smart device or computer. You do not need to purchase additional equipment, but if you want to, it is compatible.
How much does video interpreting cost?
The rate for video interpreting economical and void of any premium charges for traditional non-business hours of operation or weekends.
How do I get Video Interpreting services?
Please contact Global Interpreting Services via email at ( interpreter@myterps.com ) for further information, and we will be happy to coordinate a date and time for a full discussion on the merits of video interpreting and how it can be a valuable tool for your company and clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Phone Interpreting
What is Phone Interpreting or OPI?
Global’s OPI system uses any phone, computer, or smart device to allow you to access an Interpreter through it. You and a person who speaks a language other than English can be sitting in your office, at your desk, or in your courtroom and you can use a speakerphone, the speaker on your smart device, or a computer to access an Interpreter.
How much does phone interpreting cost?
The rate for phone interpreting is very economical and void of any premium charges for traditional non-business hours of operation or weekends. There is no need to pre-schedule OPI and no cancellation fees if it is not pre-scheduled.
How do I pay for phone interpreting?
Once a company becomes one of our trusted clients, Global Interpreting will provide an invoice for services rendered.
How do I get phone interpreting services?
Please contact Global Interpreting Services via email at (sales@myterps.com ) for further information. We will be happy to coordinate a date and time for a full discussion on the merits of VRI and/or OPI how it can be a valuable tool for your company and clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Translation
What is the difference between “interpreting” and “translation”?
Translation is written language; interpreting is spoken language.
What is translation?
Translation is the written form of language and is its own profession. Often people confuse it with Interpreting, but not everyone who interprets can translate.
Someone in my office speaks the language I need, can they just translate for me?
Does everyone you know who speaks English write well? Do they know the rules of grammar and punctuation?
No?
Exactly! Translators are experts in not only their language but also the rules of grammar and punctuation for the languages they translate. They will also have special keyboards for the languages they work with.
At Global, we employ a highly dedicated and experienced staff. We have specialized in translation project management and linking people to interpreters & translators since 1996. We work exclusively with translators who are highly skilled in their craft and understand the dedication and accuracy needed on projects of any size. You may email us at translations@myterps.com or call us directly with any questions or concerns. We meet stringent deadlines and always produce only the highest quality work.
Does just one person do my translation?
No. Every translation is done and then reviewed by another person.
How long does translation take?
In some instances, it can take just as long to translate a document as it does to write it in English. It is best to allow 3-5 business days for most documents, longer for larger files.
What is the price of translation?
Translation pricing is generally billed by the document, not by the hour, so we need to look at the document in order to provide a fee for the service. We are happy to provide quotes free of charge.
How do I get a document translated?
The best way is to email us the document(s) you would like translated to translations@myterps.com and we will respond with an estimated turn-around and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Am I Legally Required to Hire an Interpreter?
The Americans With Disabilities Act, ADA, requires all places of public accommodation to provide Sign Language Interpreters to persons who are Deaf at no cost to them.
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act requires many places to supply meaningful access to limited English proficient, LEP, people.
There are several other laws and regulations that pertain to Interpreters and certification of them. Please call us for guidance at: 586-778-4188.
Learn more
Why can't someone just read lips?
60% of English is formed in the back of the mouth or in the throat. 40% of the English language is formed on the lips and 20% of that 40% looks exactly the same. (Say the word “olive” and the word “love”, when you said them did it “feel” the same?)
Lip reading is a guessing game that many people are just really good at.
Why Can't I just use Paper & Pen?
Even in the case of a Deaf person, English may not be their first language. Sign Language, which is a visual language and has its own grammar rules and syntax and is very different from English, so using English to communicate with a Deaf person may not be effective.
The ADA states that if a Deaf person requests an Interpreter, you must provide one. In many instances, an Interpreter will make an exchange happen quicker saving time and money allowing you to move on to other clients.
Why Can't I Use a Family Member as an Interpreter?
A family member may not have the special training or mandatory certification requirements necessary to be an Interpreter. They also may not be able to separate themselves emotionally from the situation to be an effective Interpreter and allow the person to make appropriate decisions for themselves or to have a “voice” in decisions about themselves.
It is never appropriate to use a child or a person under 18 as an Interpreter. Putting that amount of responsibility and pressure on a child, not to mention that they are not legally an adult, is inappropriate.
Is Providing an Interpreter a HIPAA Violation?
No. HIPAA has a provision for Interpreters to receive protected health information as a Business Associate. Sharing information with an Interpreter or an Agency that has signed such an agreement on behalf of their Interpreters and themselves is not a violation of HIPAA.
Additionally, Interpreters abide by a Code of Professional Conduct abiding by a strict confidentiality clause. Another reason friends and family would not make good Interpreters for your facility.
Who is responsible to pay for the Interpreter?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the places of public accommodation are responsible in all cases and in The Civil Rights Act Title VI, places of public accommodation are responsible to pay for the Interpreters in most cases.
If you question whether or not you must pay for services, please call us at: 586-778-4188.
Are Interpreting Services Tax Deductible?
Yes. Please consult your tax professional for details.