.1 GS CEUs | $20

Self-Study Course created by Rosemary Bocian

Course Description:

Build confidence and practical skills for working as an independent interpreter through this self-paced CEU course based on The Interpreter’s Quick Guide to Self-Employment. Participants will read the book and explore key topics such as business setup, income tracking, expenses and deductions, recordkeeping, client management, and basic tax responsibilities for self-employed interpreters.

After completing the reading, participants will complete a short quiz and written reflection to demonstrate understanding and identify next steps for applying the material to their own career goals.

Educational Objectives:

1. Identify core tax responsibilities for self-employed interpreters

   • By the end of this course, participants will be able to describe the types of taxes self-employed individuals typically pay and explain the purpose of quarterly estimated tax payments in a pay-as-you-go tax system.

2. Apply foundational business and bookkeeping practices for self-employment

   • By the end of this course, participants will be able to recognize common business structures used by freelance interpreters, distinguish between insurance and legal entity structure, and demonstrate best practices for financial organization, including separating accounts, using basic bookkeeping tools, and understanding cash-basis recordkeeping.

3. Evaluate deductible business expenses and long-term financial planning strategies

   • By the end of this course, participants will be able to identify typical deductible expenses for interpreters (including travel-related deductions and common business purchases) and differentiate retirement account tax treatment, including which accounts may offer tax deferral, after-tax contributions, deductions, or tax-free withdrawals.