Breaking Into The Insurance Field: A Guide To Becoming An Adjuster

Becoming an insurance field adjuster is a great career option for those who enjoy investigative work, crunching numbers, and negotiating settlements. While the specific requirements vary depending on the state, there are some general steps that can be followed to become an insurance field adjuster. Firstly, it is important to meet the basic requirements, such as being at least 18 years old, possessing a valid driver's license, and having proficient reading and writing skills in English. Obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent is also necessary, while some employers may prefer a degree in business or a related field. Gaining industry knowledge through a preparatory class or pre-licensing course is often recommended before sitting for the state licensing exam. Maintaining licensure through continuing education credits or regular renewals is also crucial. Field adjusters should be prepared for travel, work under pressure, and possess excellent communication and analytical skills to succeed in this challenging yet rewarding career.

Assess if insurance adjusting is a good fit for you

Insurance adjusting is a stable industry with excellent earning potential, but it is not for everyone.

Skills

The hard skills and qualifications necessary to become an adjuster are relatively simple: be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver's license, be a bonafide resident of your state, etc. However, it's the soft skills that set great adjusters apart: self-discipline, an excellent work ethic, and great communication skills.

Career Prospects

Claims adjusting is a challenging but rewarding career. The pay is good, and helping people get back on their feet after a loss is deeply satisfying. Insurance adjusters are always in demand as claims remain steady regardless of economic factors.

Demand

In catastrophe situations, such as after a hurricane, the huge volume of claims causes a massive increase in the demand for adjusters. During these spikes, a good adjuster can earn more in a few months than they would normally earn in an entire year. However, you must be ready to go at the drop of a hat and be prepared to work in challenging environments.

Career Development

The industry is rapidly evolving, and employers are struggling to fill the vacuum left by a generation of adjusters who are retiring. The country is also facing an increasing number of damaging weather events, so the future is bright for insurance adjusters.

Decide on the type of adjuster role

When deciding on the type of adjuster role you want, it's important to understand the different types of insurance adjusters and the work they do. Here are the most common types of adjuster roles:

Staff Adjuster

Staff adjusters, also known as company adjusters, work directly for a single insurance company as full-time, salaried employees. They typically receive benefits and may have opportunities for continuing education. Staff adjusters often handle car accident cases, but they can also handle property damage claims or liability claims (personal injury, third-party).

Independent Adjuster

Independent adjusters are self-employed contractors who work for multiple insurance companies or independent adjusting firms. They may be hired by an insurance company to handle specific claims or supplement large field claim efforts following natural disasters. Independent adjusters have more flexibility in how they charge for their services and can choose how they are paid. This role often involves travel to different areas.

Public Adjuster

Public adjusters work for the policyholder or claimant and help individuals or businesses file insurance claims. They are usually self-employed and work as independent contractors. Public adjusters advocate for the claimant to ensure they receive a fair settlement. They may reassess a claim if new information or evidence arises.

Field Adjuster

Field adjusters, also known as material damage adjusters, investigate and evaluate insurance claims on-site. They assess damage to property, vehicles, or other insured assets, gather information, take photos, interview witnesses, and negotiate settlements. This role often requires travel and working in potentially hazardous areas.

Desk Adjuster

Desk adjusters handle claims and investigations remotely from an office or call center. They may work for an insurance company or an independent adjusting firm. Desk adjusters can specialize in different types of claims, such as auto, bodily injury, property, or workers' compensation.

When deciding on the type of adjuster role you want to pursue, consider your preferred work environment, the level of flexibility you desire, the type of claims you want to handle, and the specific skills you want to develop. Each type of adjuster role has unique advantages and challenges, so choosing the right one for you is essential for a rewarding career in insurance adjusting.

Get a degree and a license

While a college degree is not always necessary to become an insurance field adjuster, it can certainly help your application stand out. A bachelor's degree in risk assessment or insurance services is ideal, but some employers may only require an associate degree. If you don't have a degree, a high school diploma or GED equivalent is typically the minimum educational requirement.

Some states require insurance adjusters to obtain a license, while others don't. However, even if your state doesn't require a license, obtaining one is highly recommended as it demonstrates proficiency in the profession and allows you to work in other states.

To obtain a license, you will typically need to pass a state licensing exam. This often involves completing a pre-licensing course to prepare for the exam. The requirements and process for obtaining a license vary from state to state, so be sure to check with your specific state's Department of Insurance or equivalent. Some common steps in the licensing process include:

• Completing an insurance adjuster training course or pre-licensing education course
• Passing the insurance adjuster license exam
• Submitting your license application and paying the associated fees
• Applying for state reciprocity to work in other states
• Completing fingerprinting and background checks
• Maintaining your license through continuing education credits and regular renewals

Learn essential skills and software

To become an insurance field adjuster, you will need to master certain skills and software. Here are some essential skills and software you should focus on:

Communication Skills

Excellent communication skills are crucial for insurance adjusters, encompassing both oral and written communication abilities. Adjusters interact with various individuals, including insurance policyholders, insurance companies, witnesses, lawyers, and law enforcement. Thus, they must be able to convey complex insurance terms in a simple and understandable manner while maintaining respectful and empathetic communication with claimants.

Time Management

The ability to manage time effectively is vital for insurance adjusters, especially when handling multiple claims simultaneously. Adjusters need to juggle different tasks, meet deadlines, and efficiently use their time to succeed in this profession.

Analytical and Math Skills

Insurance adjusters must possess strong analytical skills to assess complex information and make sound decisions. They also need math skills to compute settlements and understand detailed financial records accurately.

Computer Proficiency

Proficiency in using computers and specific software is essential for insurance adjusters. They should be comfortable with basic computer usage, typing, navigating Windows-based programs, and using a mouse. Additionally, adjusters should be adept at using claims management systems and claims writing software.

Xactimate

Xactimate is the industry-leading estimating software used by insurance adjusters to evaluate and estimate property damage. It is widely considered the most important technical skill for new adjusters to acquire. Xactimate allows adjusters to create detailed estimates, sketches, and diagrams, access up-to-date pricing information, and streamline the claims process.

Simsol

Simsol is another user-friendly estimating software for property repair and claims processing. It is known for its simplicity and ease of use, enabling adjusters to generate estimates, sketches, digital images, reports, and insurance forms with minimal training.

Comarch FSM

Comarch FSM is a software designed for mobile claims adjusters, helping them verify the circumstances of material injuries, accidents, or incidents like burglary or apartment flooding. It automates the assignment of claims to the right adjuster, improves reporting, enhances customer service with fast response times, and simplifies insurance audits.

VCA Claims Management Software

VCA is a future-ready platform that streamlines the claims process, making it more efficient and accurate. It simplifies and automates workflows, reducing the cost of the claims journey. The platform is scalable, integration-friendly, and offers a mid-range price point, making it a popular choice among adjusting firms.

CCC One

CCC One is a widely used auto damage estimating software in the industry. It is one of the essential tools for auto adjusters and appraisers to complete their inspections and assessments accurately.

Microsoft Office and Other Computer Software

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer software is often required for insurance field adjusters. This includes spreadsheet software and appraisal software such as Xactimate.

Apply for adjuster jobs

Once you have completed the necessary education and licensing requirements to become an insurance field adjuster, you can start applying for jobs.

Resume and Cover Letter

First, you will need to prepare a resume and cover letter. Your resume should include any relevant work experience, as well as the skills that are important for insurance adjusters to have, such as customer service, analytical skills, communication skills, and computer proficiency. If you have completed any internships or received any adjuster accreditations, be sure to include these on your resume. Your cover letter should express your interest in the position and highlight your relevant qualifications and experience.

Job Search

When searching for adjuster jobs, you can look for openings at major insurance adjusting firms, insurance companies, or independent adjusting firms. You can also search for jobs on online job boards, such as ZipRecruiter and Zippia. Networking within the industry can also be a helpful way to learn about job opportunities.

Job Application

When applying for adjuster jobs, be sure to follow the application instructions carefully. You may need to submit your application and any required materials, such as your resume and cover letter, through an online portal or via email. Some employers may also require you to complete additional steps, such as taking an assessment or participating in an initial phone screen.

Interview

If your application is successful, you will be invited to interview for the position. This may involve multiple interviews with different members of the hiring team. During the interview, you will be asked questions about your experience, skills, and qualifications. The interview is also your opportunity to learn more about the role and the company, so be sure to prepare questions to ask the interviewer.

Follow Up

After the interview, be sure to send a thank-you note to the interviewer to express your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in the position. If you do not hear back after a week or two, you can follow up on your application status.

Remember that the job search process can take time and may involve applying to multiple positions. Stay persistent and don't be afraid to reach out to your network for support and guidance.

Frequently asked questions