Planning for the future
Focus on CPIC and CPIT, two valuable tools for building a strong pension for the future.
Starting out as a conference interpreter can be both exciting and challenging. While the profession offers intellectual stimulation, travel, and cultural exchange, it also offers irregular income and long-term financial uncertainty, particularly for freelancers. Retirement planning is not usually a top priority for young interpreters. But the financial models used by professional associations show how important it is to ensure financial security in later life.
(Caspar David Friedrich, The Stages of Life, 1834 - MdbK Leipzig)
As early as the 1970s, freelance conference interpreters negotiated agreements with various intergovernmental organisations that govern the working conditions and remuneration of the profession. However, the clause on contributions to old-age protection in these agreements is less well known. It was this clause that led to the creation of the two pension schemes: the CPIC and the CPIT.
Unlike other general pension schemes, the CPIC (Caisse de Prévoyance des Interprètes de Conférence) and the CPIT (Caisse de pensions des interprètes et traducteurs de conférence) were created by and for conference interpreters, meeting the specific needs of a profession often pursued as freelance or independent contractor, with variable income, international mobility, and limited access to national pension schemes. These funds offer interpreters a flexible and secure way to build a retirement nest egg, no matter where they live or work.
Who can join?
Both the CPIC and the CPIT are open to AIIC members, including candidates, even if you do not work or only work occasionally for international institutions. Joining early in your career is a smart move as it enables you to spread your contributions over time and build a stronger pension for the future.
Why joint CPIC or CPIT?
1. Reliable, long-term savings
Both funds are based on capitalisation. Your contributions are invested carefully to generate a personal pension when you retire.
2. Non-profit, run by interpreters
These are non-profit schemes, governed by boards made up of interpreters. This ensures that decisions are made with members’ interests in mind, rather than those of shareholders.
3. Portability accross borders
Whether you work in Paris, Berlin, Nairobi or New York, these pension funds remain independent of national systems. Your contributions stay with you, even if you move countries.
4. Flexible contributions
Recognising the realities of freelance life, the funds allow you to adjust your contributions based on your income — providing stability without locking you into rigid commitments.
5. Additional benefits
Some funds may offer additional coverage such as disability or death benefits. Be sure to check the specifics with each fund.
CPIC or CPIT — What’s the difference?
While both funds share a common mission, they differ in their legal structures, tax treatment, and administrative rules. Your choice may depend on your country of residence, your career plans, or the legal or financial framework you prefer.
Learn more:
🔹 CPIC
🔹 CPIT
17/08/2025
