How to Get Claims Adjuster Career Training

Claims adjusters typically work at insurance companies to evaluate claims for damages. They may work for medical, homeowners, or auto insurance companies, but they may also work independently for policy holders. The latter are known as "public adjusters." Jobs for claims adjusters and examiners are on the rise, and if you are interested in career in the insurance industry, this guide will show you how to obtain career training.

Claims Adjuster Job Search Engine

Getting Hired as a Claims Adjuster

If you want to work directly for an insurance company as a salaried claims adjuster, you will need to have at least a high school diploma, though a bachelors degree is preferred. There is no particular major you need to have. Because claims adjusters need to talk to witnesses and policy holders, and crunch a lot of numbers, you should have excellent verbal and math skills.

Beyond that, most insurance companies provide the training for their salaried employees. If you want to work independently or as a public adjuster, you'll need to find outside training, such as community college programs.

The first step in finding training is to select the type of claims you want to specialize in, based on your previous work experience. For example, if you have training in auto body repair, you are better suited for auto claims. If you have law enforcement training, you are more suited to claims investigation, which involves more detective work.

Next, you should contact your state's Insurance Commision or Dept of Insurance to learn the licensing requirements. The Texas Adjuster's License is the most prestigious claims adjuster license in the US because it is valid in 32 states. You don't have to be a Texas resident to obtain this claims adjusting license.

Whether you choose to receive the Texas Adjuster's License or your own state's license, your state will have information on approved and accredited courses (pre-licensure courses) that you can take to pass either your state's exam or the Texas exam. They should have a list of both live and online claims adjuster training programs. Check their website for more details.

There are many claims adjuster courses available online. When choosing an online program, research graduation rates, job placement rates, and exam passing rates. A typical course is 40 hours, whether online or live.

Also look for Xactimate courses in your area. Xactimate is a software program that many insurance companies use to process claims. If you are employed by and insurance company, they will reimburse you for this training. If you are unsure about any training course, contact your state commissioner's office to ask about its legitimacy.

© Had2Know 2010