Factors or options for consideration include whether an option presents an undue burden to the practice or facility, and what option or options would ensure effective communication. Courts have found an ADA violation where the health care professional decides not to use an interpreter and there is evidence that the method used did not result in effective communication. The health care professional or facility responsible for the care must pay for the cost of an interpreter. Health care professionals or facilities cannot impose a surcharge on an individual with a disability directly or indirectly to offset the cost of the interpreter. The cost of the interpreter should be treated as part of overhead expenses for accounting and tax purposes.
Tax relief is available for expenditures made toward interpreters.
This tax credit may be applied to reasonable and necessary business expenditures made in compliance with ADA standards in order to provide qualified interpreters or other accessible tools for individuals with hearing impairments.