Interpreter FAQ – Freelance Interpreting with Tolk2Go
Tolk2Go: Freelance Interpreter Platform – General Information
What is Tolk2Go?
Tolk2Go is an online platform where both sworn and qualified interpreters offer their services. Each interpreter has a dedicated profile page, and you set your own fees.
When did Tolk2Go launch?
We launched in November 2018 after one year of preparation. Our initial 50 sworn interpreters signed up quickly.
How many interpreters are on board?
1,000+ interpreters from Europe have joined, and our network grows yearly through referrals and marketing.
What types of clients and languages do you serve?
Our clients include notaries, lawyers, health services, media, schools, and many more. Over 100 languages are in demand—from English and Polish to Thai, Indonesian, and Japanese.
Do you offer translation services?
No. Tolk2Go connects customers with interpreters for remote or on-site assignments only.
What is the work arrangement?
You work as a freelancer or self-employed interpreter. Tolk2Go does not employ interpreters.
Joining Tolk2Go and Interpreter Requirements
How do I join as an interpreter?
Register by creating a profile. List your language pairs, specializations, fees, and experience. You can register on our website or via the Tolk2Go for Interpreters app.
Register here or download our Tolk2Go App for Interpreters.
What are the interpreter requirements?
You must be sworn in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, or France, or provide diplomas and at least 100 hours of experience to prove your language and interpreting skills.
Do I need to provide a VAT number?
Yes. Log in to your account, navigate to your profile’s financial section, enter your VAT number, and save the details.
Rates, Pricing, and Payment
How do I set and adjust my rates?
Set your hourly rate (minimum around €70) when you register. You can update your rates anytime. Changes apply to new assignments only.
How do I set half-day or full-day rates?
In the "Interpreter Rates" section, select half-day or full-day options and set your desired rate.
Are there special weekend or evening rates?
No, we do not offer separate weekend or evening rates.
How can I avoid phone interpreting requests?
Log in to your account and set a high rate for telephone requests in the "Travel and Other Rates" section.
How is the total price calculated?
The total price equals your interpreting fee plus travel costs (including travel time) and a platform fee of at least 40%. Your hourly rate is converted into a per-minute rate, with a minimum amount guaranteed.
How is interpretation time calculated?
After the assignment, mark it as complete in the app. Adjust start/end times and add any agreed extra preparation or costs. You always receive payment for the time booked.
How does travel reimbursement work?
Enter a rate per kilometer for both travel time and expenses. Distances are calculated in a straight line. Adjust your rate to cover any extra distance in real life.
What should I know about preparation time?
Your hourly rate may include some preparation time. If extra preparation is needed, request it via the app so that it is sent to the customer. If agreed, you will be paid extra. Note that if you charge for preparation, the client may cancel without charge.
Why is the hourly rate higher for notary assignments?
Notary work requires detailed study of legal documents. You often need 1–2 hours of preparation per hour of interpreting. Your rate for these notary assignments includes that preparation time.
How do I get paid?
After your assignment, Tolk2Go invoices the client. You receive a credit note the next day, and payment is transferred within two weeks—provided you have correctly completed the interpreter task in the app.
What if the assignment is longer or shorter than booked?
If you work longer than scheduled, you are paid per extra minute at your regular hourly rate (or half rate for notary work). If the job is shorter or the client does not show up, you still receive the full agreed amount.
Booking, Communication, and Assignment Management
How does it work for interpreters at Tolk2Go?
Learn more about the process for interpreters by visiting: How Does It Work for Interpreters at Tolk2Go?
How do availability requests work?
When you respond "yes" to an availability request, you are giving the client an option to book you. This system offers the client a choice among available interpreters.
Do I need to indicate additional availability or use ad hoc options?
No. Generally, there are enough interpreters available, and at the moment we do not offer an ad hoc availability button, though this feature will be available in the future.
Can I work with another interpreter?
Yes. You may collaborate with another qualified interpreter if you discuss it with the client first.
How is simultaneous interpreting arranged?
For assignments longer than 30 minutes, a second interpreter may be arranged for simultaneous interpretation if needed. Please check with the client to confirm if a second interpreter is required.
What information is shared after booking and how do I communicate with the client?
After booking, you receive all assignment details by email or via the app. You then communicate directly with the client to confirm details and share any documents. Keep Tolk2Go informed about any changes.
How do I close an assignment?
At the end of the service, open the assignment in the app, adjust times if needed, add any agreed extra costs, and mark it as finished. Ensure the client signs off, or sign it with "TOLK" if necessary.
How are changes handled?
If a client wants to change the date, time or location, reply that this can only be done via Tolk2Go. Send us an email with the desired change and put the client in the CC. The Tolk2Go terms and conditions only apply if the change has been confirmed via email and Tolk2Go.
What if a client cancels the appointment?
A client can cancel free of charge up to 48 hours before the interpreting appointment. Does the client cancel later? Then you still get the full amount that was agreed upon, including travel time.
Note: If you receive an interpreter request that is within 72 hours, this 48-hour rule does not apply.
What if a client has a complaint?
If a client has a complaint, try to resolve it in a friendly and professional manner. If the issue cannot be resolved, the customer may decide not to pay. In such a case, we cannot guarantee payment to the interpreter. We encourage open and honest communication to avoid such situations.
Can I cancel a job?
Yes, you can cancel through the app or website. However, if you cancel twice within 48 hours before an assignment, you will not get paid for your next assignment if the client cancels within 48 hours.
How does a client choose an interpreter?
The client selects the needed languages, date, time, and location. You then receive a notification to indicate your availability. The client chooses one interpreter from a shortlist, and you are only booked when selected.
What if I need to update my availability?
You can always change your availability using the buttons in the interpreter availability request email and through the app.
Where do I interpret: by phone or on location?
You can work via telephone (or video call) or travel to a location specified by the client.
What should I do if something goes wrong?
Contact Tolk2Go immediately by phone or email so we can resolve the issue.
Account Management and Privacy
Is my date of birth visible to clients?
No, your date of birth is never visible to clients. When booking, we share your full name, phone number, and email with the customer. A photo is not compulsory; however, if you add a photo, your chances of being chosen by a customer are much higher. For example, see this: profile of an interpreter and how your data is used
Can I include my own website in my profile?
No. Tolk2Go manages advertising and client acquisition, so personal websites or phone numbers are not allowed in your profile.
Can I pause or delete my account?
Yes. Pausing your account cancels all pending assignments, but your profile remains active for future use. Deleting your account removes your personal information, except for data required by law.
Benefits for Interpreters
What benefits do we offer?
Learn more about the benefits we offer to interpreters at Tolk2Go by visiting: Benefits for Interpreters
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