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As an inside claims adjuster, you'll spend most of your time working in an office, reviewing and processing insurance claims. This role typically requires a bachelor's degree in a field like business, finance, or a related field.
Inside claims adjusters work on a wide range of claims, from property damage to auto accidents. They must be detail-oriented and have strong analytical skills to accurately assess the value of claims.
The median salary for inside claims adjusters is around $65,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This can vary depending on factors like location and experience.
To become an inside claims adjuster, you'll typically need to have a combination of education and training, as well as relevant work experience. Some employers may also require certifications, such as the Associate in Claims (AIC) designation.
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What is a Claims Adjuster
A claims adjuster is a professional who investigates and settles insurance claims on behalf of insurance companies.
Their main goal is to determine the validity and extent of the claim, which involves gathering facts and evidence, interviewing witnesses, and assessing damages.
Claims adjusters typically work on a case-by-case basis, reviewing individual claims to ensure they meet the policy's terms and conditions.
They may also use specialized software to analyze data and make recommendations for claim payouts.
In the US, claims adjusters must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a training program or apprenticeship.
Some claims adjusters may also choose to obtain professional certifications, such as the Associate in Claims (AIC) designation.
Becoming a Claims Adjuster
To become a claims adjuster, you'll need at least a high school diploma, although an associate's or bachelor's degree can be preferred. You'll also need to study and pass a licensing exam.
Some states require a certain number of hours of training before you can take the exam. For example, California requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license.
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In Florida, you'll need to take and pass the Florida Adjuster Examination from an approved vendor. You'll also need to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
Not all states require licenses for insurance adjusters, however. If you live in one of the following jurisdictions, you won't need a license:
- Colorado
- District of Columbia
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Missouri
- Maryland
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
To pass the state adjuster licensure exam, you'll need to get at least 70% of your answers right. The test consists of 150 items and lasts from two to three hours.
Career and Pay
As a claims adjuster, you can expect a decent salary. The average salary in the U.S. is $61,465 per year, according to Indeed.com.
This salary can vary depending on the number of claims you're working on at once. Some adjusters can earn thousands of dollars a week.
The average salary of $61,465 is a good starting point for your career as a claims adjuster.
Types of Adjusters
There are several types of adjusters who play a crucial role in the claims process.
Independent adjusters work directly for insurance companies, while public adjusters represent policyholders.
Reserving adjusters, on the other hand, are responsible for estimating the cost of repairs or replacement.
Difference Between Independent and Public Adjusters
An independent adjuster is contracted by an insurance company to assess and investigate claims. They are expected to operate impartially to recommend a settlement.
Independent adjusters are assigned by insurance companies, but policy providers may also have in-house adjusters who can handle claims. In-house adjusters can be a convenient option, but they may not always be impartial.
Public adjusters, on the other hand, are hired by policyholders to advocate for their interests in the claims process. They assess damage and recommend a settlement, just like independent adjusters.
Homeowners who feel the independent adjuster's assessment was incorrect or unfair might consider hiring a public adjuster to get a second opinion. This can be a good option for policyholders who want to ensure their interests are represented.
Discover more: Claims Adjuster Fee Schedule
Mile High
Mile High is a company that offers in-person training for insurance adjusters. They provide a two-week course that includes pre-licensing classes, scoping, Xactimate training, and boot camp.
The course is priced at $1,590 and can be taken separately for $599, $197, $499, and $595 respectively. This comprehensive training is designed to help you get a Texas all-lines adjuster license.
Mile High also offers a three-day file review course for file reviewers, desk adjusters, and examiners. The course fee is $395, making it a more affordable option for those looking to specialize in file review.
The training courses offered by Mile High are specifically designed to meet the needs of insurance adjusters. By taking these courses, you can gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.
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Mocat
MOCAT is a great resource for those looking to become an insurance adjuster. Their hands-on adjuster training course is comprehensive and consists of four parts: practical policy, claims management, scoping damage, and estimatics.
The course fee is $2,995, which is a significant investment, but MOCAT offers a lot of value for the price. The classes are held in Nixa, Missouri, which might be a bit of a trek for some, but it's worth it for the quality of education they provide.
MOCAT's program includes weekly coaching calls, connections with MOCAT IA firm, access to the Claimstacker portal for one year, and MOCAT Certification. This kind of support can be a game-changer for those just starting out in the industry.
Here are the four parts of MOCAT's adjuster training course:
- Practical policy: comprehensive training to earn you a Texas adjuster license
- Claims management: discusses organization and scheduling
- Scoping damage: covers identification, investigation, and documentation
- Estimatics: Xactimate training
What is a Home?
A home is a place where you live, but in the context of insurance, it's a structure that can be damaged or destroyed. It's the location where a homeowners insurance adjuster will inspect damage and assess its extent.
The adjuster will typically inspect areas that were damaged, take pictures and notes, and examine collateral property like gates, decks, or other areas to determine the scope of the damage. They may ask questions about how the damage occurred or when you noticed it.
A home's structural integrity is also a key factor in determining the extent of damage, and the adjuster will assess this to determine if any damage may have happened before the cited incident.
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Education and Training
Claims Adjuster Academy offers pre-licensing, Xactimate, and continuing education courses both online and in person.
Fees for online classes range from $69 to $295 for single courses, while bundles cost $450. Live classroom training costs $395 and covers a range of topics.
You can access the calendar for in-person classes on the company's website, but you will need to register. Subscription is free. Claims Adjuster Academy has already catered to more than 4,500 students.
A unique perspective: Claims Adjuster Classes Online
10 Best Places to Take Classes
If you're someone who retains information better through face-to-face collaboration, the best way to take an insurance adjuster course is by joining an in-person class. Most of these providers also offer online courses.
Insurance Business reviewed dozens of providers to find the best places to take in-person classes. This thorough research is what makes the list reliable and trustworthy.
The list is arranged alphabetically, making it easy to navigate and find the best fit for your needs.
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Academy
Claims Adjuster Academy is a great resource for those looking to get started in the field. It offers pre-licensing, Xactimate, and continuing education courses both online and in-person.
Online courses are available, with fees ranging from $69 to $295 for single courses, and bundles costing $450. The company's website allows you to access the calendar for in-person classes, but you'll need to register.
Live classroom training costs $395 and covers a range of topics. Over 4,500 students have already benefited from Claims Adjuster Academy's courses.
Expand your knowledge: Insurance Adjuster Training Online
Who Does the Work
Inside claims adjusters are often the first point of contact for policyholders after a loss. They handle a wide range of tasks, from gathering information to making decisions about coverage.
Claims adjusters work with various stakeholders, including policyholders, insurance company representatives, and repair professionals. They must navigate complex relationships and communicate effectively to resolve claims efficiently.
In the insurance industry, claims adjusters are often employees of insurance companies, hired to work on a case-by-case basis or as full-time staff.
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Who Does It Represent?
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The insurance adjuster represents the insurance company, not you. This is a crucial thing to remember when dealing with an adjuster.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an insurance adjuster's main duties and responsibilities include ensuring that claims are not fraudulent, which means they have a vested interest in protecting the insurance company's interests.
Here are the three general types of insurance adjusters, which can give you an idea of the different roles they play:
- Independent adjusters work directly for the insurance company
- Company adjusters work directly for the insurance company
- Public adjusters work for the claimant, not the insurance company
As the article mentions, if you believe the adjuster is biased and working for the interest of the insurance company and not you, you should consider hiring your own public adjuster or lawyer.
Who Does the Work?
The insurance adjuster works for the insurance company, either directly or as an independent adjuster hired to handle specific claims. Their employer's interests take priority over yours.
Their primary goal is to minimize the insurance company's loss, not yours. This can lead to a conflict of interest.
As an independent claims adjuster works directly for you, there's no conflict of interest. They'll do everything possible to minimize your loss.
Understanding the Role
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Claims adjusters verify policyholder requests for funds from an insurance policy, determining a fair amount for settlement. They investigate claims by inspecting damage, reviewing police reports, speaking to witnesses, and talking to property owners.
Their main role in property damage claims is to carry out a detailed investigation, which includes interviewing the claimant, witnesses, and inspecting the property to determine the extent of the damage and the costs of repairing the property.
Claims adjusters assess and investigate claims to determine how much an insurance company should pay, if they should pay at all. They evaluate and investigate insurance claims, determine if the policy covers the loss, and ensure that claims are not fraudulent.
There are three general types of insurance adjusters, but their main duties and responsibilities remain the same. They negotiate settlements, authorize payments, and contact relevant parties to get additional details for questionable claims.
Here are the main duties of a claims adjuster in more detail:
- Evaluating and investigating insurance claims
- Determining if the policy covers the loss
- Ensuring that claims are not fraudulent
- Contacting relevant parties to get additional details for questionable claims
- Negotiating settlements
- Authorizing payments
Sources
- https://www.dfs.ny.gov/apps_and_licensing/agents_and_brokers/lic_app_ia_pa
- https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/guides/insurance-adjuster-courses-where-to-take-inperson-training-478806.aspx
- https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/claims-adjuster.asp
- https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/home-insurance-adjusters/
- https://witeslaw.com/what-does-an-insurance-claims-adjuster-do/
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