Insurance Claim Representative

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Work Tasks

INSURANCE CLAIM REPRESENTATIVES investigate claims, negotiate settlements, and authorize payment to claimants. When a policyholder files a claim, claim representatives determine whether the customer's insurance policy covers the loss and the amount of coverage. Inside adjusters handle minor claims filed by automobile or homeowner policyholders. Complex cases are referred to independent adjusters who investigate claims by interviewing claimants and witnesses, consulting police and hospital records, and inspecting damage to determine the company's liability. When the claim is legitimate, the representative negotiates with the policy holder and settles the claim.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $52,000 average per year ($25.00 per hour)
• A large occupation (272,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.7% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most companies prefer to hire college graduates for INSURANCE CLAIM REPRESENTATIVE positions. Although courses in insurance, economics, or other business subjects are helpful, no specific college major is recommended. Knowledge of computer applications is extremely important. Some insurance companies provide on-the-job training for entry-level claim representatives. Workers may also receive training through courses offered by the Insurance Institute of America or the International Claim Association. Many states require insurance claim representatives to have a license.