When natural disaster strikes,
or a car accident happens,
insurance professionals are called in
to help start putting the pieces
back together.
When people have an insurance policy
for their health, home, or car,
and they become injured
or their property is damaged,
they make a request
—called a claim—
for payment to cover their costs.
Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners,
and investigators evaluate insurance claims,
to decide whether an insurance company
must pay a claim,
and if so, how much.
Appraisers estimate the cost
or value of an insured item.
Most are auto damage appraisers—
they inspect damaged vehicles
and estimate the cost of repairs.
Adjusters inspect
damaged real estate properties
and automobiles to determine how much
the insurance company should pay
for the loss.
They gather evidence
and report it to examiners.
Adjusters negotiate with the policyholder
to arrive at a final payment amount
for their claim.
Claims examiners review claims
to ensure guidelines are followed properly.
They review health-related claims
to determine whether to pay… deny…
or refer a claim to an investigator.
Insurance investigators handle potentially
fraudulent claims or suspected criminal activity
such as arson, staged accidents,
or unnecessary medical treatments.
Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators
spend time in the office,
and out in the field to inspect
damaged properties.
Auto damage appraisers
spend much of their time
at automotive body shops
to estimate repair costs.
Entry-level claims adjusters, examiners,
and investigators need a high school diploma
or equivalent.
Auto damage appraisers require either
a certificate in the field,
or work experience estimating
the cost of car repairs.