How to become a claims adjuster, examiners, and investigators
Review settled claims to determine that payments and settlements are made in accordance with company practices and procedures. Confer with legal counsel on claims requiring litigation. May also settle insurance claims.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators do
- Examine claims forms and other records to determine insurance coverage.
- Analyze information gathered by investigation and report findings and recommendations.
- Review police reports, medical treatment records, medical bills, or physical property damage to determine the extent of liability.
- Interview or correspond with agents and claimants to correct errors or omissions and to investigate questionable claims.
- Investigate and assess damage to property and create or review property damage estimates.
- Refer questionable claims to investigator or claims adjuster for investigation or settlement.
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Writing
- Monitoring
- Active Learning
- Mathematics
Is claims adjuster, examiners, and investigators a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 53% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- District of Columbia $101,150
- New Jersey $95,690
- California $91,790
- Connecticut $88,330
- Alaska $87,670
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.