.png)
A FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND NATIONAL STUDY ON
INTERPRETER INCOME
By Colleen Jones & Steve Smith
Upcoming Appearances:
.png)
.png)
.png)
Hello! We are thrilled to share the Initial Report of our findings from the National ASL Interpreter Income Study. At the same time, we know it just scratches the surface.
​
Since the beginning of this process, we have been saying that the real work begins with dialogue in communities across the country. We look forward to having meaningful conversations about our findings and the implications for interpreters, our work, and the communities we serve.
​
We are currently booking live events for 2026.
​
Want us to present/facilitate in your area? Please email research@insightfulinterpreter.com
.png)
Check us out on the Parking Lot Debrief podcast!
(Episodes available in English & ASL)
ABOUT US
.png)
CJ
Steve
Hello, I'm CJ (Colleen Jones)! I'm a hearing interpreter, educator, and researcher from Seattle. This research project started for me when I developed a professional development course all about the business side of freelance interpreting for my company, The Insightful Interpreter. I recognized a need for more data and dialogue around interpreter rates and income. I also started paying attention to the stories that we tell ourselves and each other about "making a living" as an interpreter. I've partnered with Steve to develop the National Interpreter Income Survey, and I'm so excited to learn more and share the results with you!
Hello! I'm Steve Smith. I am a Deaf-parented interpreter, educator, and mentor from Sacramento, California. In 2023, in collaboration with CJ and The Insightful Interpreter, I co-hosted a book club project on Deaf Eyes on Interpreting, aimed at elevating Deaf perspectives within the interpreting profession. Following this project, CJ and I had in-depth discussions about interpreter income and the disparities within our field. Driven to address these issues, we have gathered accurate and actionable data to highlight the real-world impacts of interpreter pay and working conditions, with the goal of advocating for a more equitable profession.
The National ASL Interpreter Income Study was an IRB-approved survey distributed in the spring of 2025. Initial results have been compiled and are available in a free, downloadable report.
Topics include:
.png)
THE STUDY
-
Income data
-
Cost of Living data
-
State & regional results
-
Equity/Inequity
-
Billable hours & sustainable schedules
-
Where interpreters work
-
In-person vs remote
-
Rate adjustments
-
Unions
-
Sentiment questions
-
Ethical decision-making