Sign Language Interpreting
Need a sign language interpreter? RCIL's American Sign Language Interpreter Services program coordinates and provides qualified, professional sign language interpreters upon request. Interpreters provide services in the greater Albany area and the Mohawk Valley. Services can also be coordinated throughout New York State.
Our interpreters work in a wide variety of settings, such as government, courts, schools, entertainment events, private industry, hospitals and medical facilities, and professional and medical offices. Interpreter services are arranged on an individual, fee-for-service basis or by long-term contract. In addition, our SignUp membership program for physicians provides package rates for multiple visits.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifically outlines requirements for effective communication which may be facilitated by interpreters in the following areas:
- Title I - Employment -- For employers with 15 or more employees
- Title II - Public Services -- All services, programs, and activities of state and local governments must be accessible to persons who are deaf.
- Title III - Public Accommodations -- This applies to any business serving the public, including lodging establishments, theaters, retail stores, medical and legal services, schools, banks, museums, and many other areas. In many cases, assistive listening devices or other accommodations will be sufficient. However, there will be times when only an interpreter can provide the proper communication access.
Anyone with questions regarding the ADA, or any other applicable law -- such as the NYS Human Rights Law or the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and its amendments -- can contact RCIL for more detailed information.
Fees
Fees are quite reasonable and vary depending on the length of the assignment and whether interpreters are certified. Contract rates are also available.
Please contact RCIL for more information on pricing regarding your particular requirements.
Number of interpreters
Assignments lasting more than two hours may require two interpreters in order to maintain an acceptable level of quality. This will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with the Director of Interpreting Services.
Requests
Simply contact RCIL to request an interpreter. A minimum 48 hours notice is requested, and a one week notice is preferred. Less than 48 hours notice may result in extra charges.
Cancellations
Must be received 24 hours or 1 business day prior to the assignment. Less than one day's notice will result in full billing for the date canceled.
Payment
Services are billed on a monthly basis. Terms: Net 30.
It is our goal to provide the highest level of service at competitive rates. Consumer input and feedback is always welcome. If a particular interpreter is requested, every effort will be made to secure their services.
When requesting interpreters
Please provide the following information:
- Name and phone number of person requesting services
- Date and time (starting and ending) for which interpreter is needed
- Location (address, floor, room number, directions)
- Contact person and phone number on-site
- Name of consumer
- Brief description of situation for which interpreter is needed (If possible, mail or fax any agenda or meeting outline available, prior to the event.)
- Interpreter preference, if any
- Need for American Sign Language (ASL), Pidgin Signed English (PSE), or Signed English (SE)
- Name and address of party responsible for payment
For more information about sign language interpretation services, please contact RCIL.
RCIL also offers peer counseling services specifically for deaf and hard of hearing individuals