How to become an independent insurance adjuster?
For those looking for a flexible, well-paid job where you get to make your own hours, becoming an independent insurance adjuster might be the answer. These claims professionals work with insurance companies to determine loss after an accident. If you’ve thought about learning a new skill and becoming an independent insurance adjuster, start here with this handy guide.
About insurance claims adjusters
Although each insurance company has their own claims department, there’s typically too high a volume of claims for their employees to cover. This is where an independent adjuster comes in. After a claim is filed, the insurance company has the ability to hire an independent claims person to work the case.
Independent adjusters can specialize in many different lines of insurance, including commercial or individual Property and Casualty, Health and Life, or Disability policies. During the claims process, they help investigate for signs of fraud, decide if the claim is legitimate, and suggest a fair settlement amount. After completing training for licensure, an independent adjuster can start working on claims.
Independent insurance adjuster training steps
There are a few steps you’ll need to take in order to complete training and start making your own schedule as an independent adjuster.
Step 1: Complete school minimum requirements
Like for most jobs, a GED or high school diploma is needed before you start training. Although higher education isn’t always required, some specialties might ask you to complete an associate’s degree before applying. If you’re interested in a specific specialization, be sure to research the expected minimum requirements first.
Step 2: Start your training
Before you test for your specific licensure, you’ll need to complete some basic training. Each state has certain requirements for training, but it typically includes at least 40 hours of pre-licensing education. This could be in-class or online with an approved provider. Each line of insurance requires separate training and education, though you can take an “all-lines” course. This training takes longer since it covers a broader spectrum of information.
Step 3: Acquire an adjuster license
Although it’s not required to be licensed as an insurance adjuster in Colorado, gaining this licensure can help you stand out. You can test for a claims adjuster license in a different state or simply take the pre-licensing exam to prove your knowledge. Being a licensed independent adjuster helps you hold your own against experienced adjusters so you can get steadier work starting out.
The best benefits about being an independent adjuster are:
- The freedom to choose your own assignments.
- The ability to work from home and set your own schedule.
- The perk of setting your own fees and making more money.
- The flexibility to have multiple streams of income at once.
For more information on how to become an independent insurance adjuster, contact a local claims representative at Moulton Claims Services.
