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What They Do:

Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators evaluate insurance claims. They decide whether an insurance company must pay a claim and if so, how much.

Why It's Important:

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Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators are important professionals in the insurance industry because they review each claim on its own basis. They are the individuals that  help customers understand their coverages and help them understand how their claims will be handled. This is crucial as an insurance companies #1 priority is to indemnify its customers.

Typical Duties:

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  • Investigate, evaluate, and settle insurance claims

  • Determine whether the insurance policy covers the loss claimed

  • Decide the appropriate amount the insurance company should pay

  • Ensure that claims are not fraudulent

  • Contact claimants’ doctors or employers to get additional information on questionable claims

  • Talk with legal counsel about claims when needed

  • Negotiate settlements

  • Authorize payments

Important Skills:

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Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Detail Oriented

Interpersonal Skills

Salary Range

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The median annual wage: $66,790

The lowest 10% ~ $41,400

The highest 10% ~ $100,400

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Average median wages in the following industries:

Government ~ $73,470

Direct insurance ~$66,690

(except life, health, and medical) carriers               

Agencies, brokerages, and other insurance related activities ~$64,890

Administrative and support services ~ $60,450

Direct health and medical insurance carriers ~ $58,560

Professional Designations:

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  • Associate in Claims (AIC) 

  • Certified Adjuster (CA) 

  • Certified Claims Adjuster (CCA) 

  • Claims Adjuster Certified Professional (CACP) 

  • Professional Claims Adjuster (PCA) 

  • Professional Property Insurance Adjuster (PPIA) 

  • Universal Claims Certification (UCC) 

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Career Facts​

Education and Professional Requirements:

  • Entry-level: Bachelor’s degree, on the job training

  • Advancement: Bachelor’s degree, multiple years of work experience

 

Possible career path: Entry-Level Claims Associate > Claims Specialist > Claims Manager

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Additional Resources

References:

  • OII Claims Adjuster Profile

  • InVEST Claims Adjuster Profile

  • IIC Claims Adjuster Profile

  • The National Alliance Claims Profile

  • IMUA Claims Overview

  • Surety and Fidelity Association Claims Overview

  • US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

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Videos:

  • Meet a Claims Adjuster

  • Inland Marine Underwriters Association Career Path Video

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