L&I medical and vocational providers are responsible for scheduling interpreter services directly with sign language interpreters. L&I's scheduling system, WordBridge, does not provide sign language interpreter services for L&I patients.
How do I request a sign language interpreter?
Call or email any of the L&I sign language interpreters below to see if they’re available to assist with the worker:
| Interpreter Name | Agency | Phone Number | In person Interpretation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bernita Bontrager | N/A | 425-343-4357 | Bernita.bontrager@gmail.com | Pierce, King, Snohomish |
| Sandra Kramer | N/A | 206-909-7036 | aaisfedway@yahoo.com | King |
| Shelly Hansen | N/A | 509-554-0564 | aslishansen@gmail.com | King |
| Sienna Geal | Deaf Blind Service Center | 206-552-7796 | dbterps@seattledbsc.org | King |
| Lori Abrams & Kathleen Morris |
Handdancer Interpreter Service | 360-383-2293 | hnddncr@aol.com | Whatcom |
Reminder: Friends and family shouldn't be utilized as interpreters and will not be financially compensated.
Are video interpreter services available?
Yes. All sign language interpreters who work with L&I are allowed to do video, but it is up to each individual interpreter to decide if they wish to offer this service. Discuss this option with the interpreter when you reach out to them to arrange services.
I'm having a hard time finding a sign language interpreter. What should I do?
There are a limited number of sign language interpreters available in Washington. You may need to make several phone calls in order to arrange services.
If you can't secure services after multiple attempts, contact the L&I Interpretation Services inbox at Interpretation@Lni.wa.gov and we'll do our best to assist you.
How do I become a sign language interpreter for L&I?
Once you have a provider account number, medical and vocational providers may contact you to coordinate interpretation services with L&I patients. You may also want to reach out directly to L&I providers in your area to let them know you're available. If you have a provider account number and your name doesn’t appear in the list on our For Providers tab, please contact us at Interpretation@Lni.wa.gov.
How do I bill for sign language interpreter services?
For general billing information, please visit our Billing L&I page. Sign language interpreters can bill their standard rates, but you will be required to submit the Interpretive Services Appointment Record (ISAR F245-056-000). For additional rules and instructions, see the sign language interpretation payment policy Chapter 22: Other Services.
Can I do video interpretation services?
Yes. All sign language interpreters have the option to provide video interpretation services. No specific platform is required as long as you’re HIPAA compliant. See Chapter 22: Other Services for additional requirements.
Who should I contact with questions?
For general questions, email the L&I interpretation mailbox at Interpretation@Lni.wa.gov.
For registration questions, email Provider Accounts and Credentialing at PACMail@Lni.wa.gov.
For billing questions, email ProviderFeedback@Lni.wa.gov.