What makes our model stand out above the rest?  We were founded on the principle that independently contracted interpreters should be in control of their pay while simultaneously saving businesses money.  We believe we have found an equitable solution to this problem. We provide the interpreters a Pay Rate calculator that they can use as a guide to decide on their individual rates. They know the value of their work better than anyone else.  There are also built-in market principles where they can price themselves out of jobs if they ask for too much.

Here is an example of how the Pay Rate calculator works:

Base pay - no degree/still in college: $25

2-year degree: $28

4-year degree: $30

Each year of experience as an interpreter: add $1 (up to $20)

Certifications - EIPA: add $3, NIC/NAD/BEI/etc: add $5

Specialty (such as Legal or medical certs): add $7

Specialty (with no Cert): add $2.

Worked VRS for more than 6 months: add $5

Degrees - Masters: add $5 (for each degree)

How do we make money? We add a 20% processing fee to the invoice. This is what helps us keep the software for our new web application (coming soon) running. Our web app keeps the overhead low and makes it easier for the interpreters to control their schedules and rates.

What does the breakdown look like? Here are two examples of different types of jobs broken down:

A 5-hour job:

Standard Agency Model: $80/hr x 5hrs = $400 per interpreter, the interpreter makes about $185.

Average BIP Model: $45/hr (interpreter’s rate) x 5hrs = $225 plus 20% = $270 per interpreter, the interpreter makes $225

Savings for the business = $130

A flat rate job (in this example, a theatre play):

Standard Agency Model: $1,000 for a play (2 x $300/terp + $400 for agency)

Average BIP Model: $720 for a play (2 x $300/terp plus 20%)

Savings for the business = $280