Providing interpreter for deaf customer

AZHR · August 2004

I'm posting this here as well as in the ADA section because I believe this section receives more attention...

After all this time, this is the first time I have encountered this issue. One of our customers is deaf and is requesting that we pay for an interpreter to accompany him to a meeting to discuss IRA investments. Do we need to do this? Based on information I have dug up so far, I think we have to. Any other thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Shadowfax · September 2004

You may need to accomodate - but Idon't think you are necessarily limited to an interpreter. There are lots of other ways to accomodate, and you need an reasonable one. Depending on the amt of business he places with you, you may be better off meeting his specific request. He will probably go with someone he perceives as the one most interested in his concerns.

AnneLa · September 2004

You could also provide written materials instead of an interpreter. Try calling your local Association for the Deaf. I'm sure that they will have pleanty of suggestions for you as well as being a resource for securing an interpreter.

Don D · September 2004

Under the ADA, you would not be 'required' to furnish an interpreter unless you were the one requiring the event, such as testing an applicant, or requiring a customer to come to a presentation. Being willing to help accommodate the process is another thing; but, required, I don't think so.

TedK · September 2004

Why wouldn't you? Not from a "have to" but from a business (and human) perspective. I'm sure that deaf people have money, and that they know other deaf people that have money. If you have a signer "on call" it could open up new clients - and not just deaf ones.

Don D · September 2004

Good point Ted. And certainly the 'right' thing to do.

TN HR · September 2004

Agree with Ted, Don and others. Not sure that you are required to do so from an ADA standpoint. Businesses also aren't required to wine, dine and entertain clients or prospective clients either.

If you want this person's patronage then go ahead and extend the gesture. I have a feeling it will pay itslef back ten-fold. Besides, it's the right thing to do.

Gene

Providing interpreter for deaf customer

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