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How to Become a Claims Adjuster
Claims adjusters are the people who investigate what went wrong and help make it right. Whether it’s a fender bender, a house fire, or a workplace injury, adjusters evaluate insurance claims and work with policyholders, legal teams, and service providers to get the details straight.
Claims Adjuster Job Overview
Claims adjusters evaluate insurance claims to determine how much should be paid, how quickly, and to whom. Depending on the situation, they may inspect damaged property, review police or medical reports, speak with claimants, or consult with legal teams.
You might see roles listed as claims examiner, field adjuster, claims analyst, or litigation representative, but they all play a part in making sure claims are handled fairly and accurately.
Job Duties
- Review insurance claims and determine coverage and payment
- Interview claimants, witnesses, and involved parties
- Inspect property damage or request third-party assessments
- Calculate payout amounts and issue settlement offers
- Confer with legal teams on complex or disputed claims
- Document findings and update case files in claims software
Salary Information
- Entry Level: $47,810
- Median Annual Salary: $76,790
- Experienced: $112,150
Get Trained
You don’t need a degree to work as a claims adjuster, but you will need a strong attention to detail, good people skills, and familiarity with state licensing rules.
Here’s how many people get started:
Earn a high school diploma or GED: Most entry-level positions or training programs require this baseline.
Complete a claims adjuster training program: Many community colleges and online platforms offer courses that teach you how to evaluate claims and apply insurance regulations.
Get licensed (if required in your state): Most states require adjusters to pass an exam and obtain a license, especially if you’re working independently or handling property/casualty claims.
Apply for entry-level claims roles: Many insurance companies hire and train new adjusters in-house. Field roles may require more experience or additional licensing.
Resources for Your Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree to become a claims adjuster?
No. Many adjusters enter the field through training programs and state licensing exams rather than a college degree.
Do all claims adjusters work in the field?
What types of claims do adjusters handle?
Auto accidents, property damage, business liability, workers’ comp, personal injury, and more, depending on your role and employer.
How do I know if my state requires a license?
Most do. You can check your state’s insurance department or use tools like AdjusterPro to find local licensing info.
What are common job titles for this role?
- Claims Adjuster
- Claims Examiner
- Field Claims Adjuster
- Claims Specialist
- Claims Analyst
- Litigation Claims Representative
- Corporate Claims Examiner
- General Adjuster
- Home Office Claims Specialist
Can this role lead to other opportunities?
Yes. With experience and certifications, adjusters can move into management, risk consulting, or specialty areas like catastrophe adjusting or fraud investigation.
Get Certified
Claims Adjuster Certifications
State Claims Adjuster License
Most states require licensing for property and casualty adjusters. Some states offer reciprocal licenses if you’re working across regions.
Associate in Claims (AIC)
Offered by The Institutes, this professional certification builds knowledge in liability, claims investigation, and negotiation.
Xactimate Certification (for Property Claims)
Xactimate is a popular estimating tool used in property adjusting. Certification in this platform is highly valued for field adjusters.
