- Several positions support the processing and filing of insurance claims.Kent Knudson/PhotoLink/Photodisc/Getty Images
The insurance industry provides protections and coverage against loss and damage. Insurance is available for things such as cars, homes and medical. When people suffer damage or a loss due to injury, an accident or a storm, they must file an insurance claim to be reimbursed or to have the insurance company pay for the bill. The insurance claims industry offers several different careers. - Claims adjusters are responsible for processing an insurance claim. They investigate the claim to determine the extent of damage or injury, obtain witness statements and determine how much the insurance company will cover for the claim. Adjusters typically work for an insurance company; however, careers as public adjusters are also available. Public adjusters will complete the investigation on behalf of the customer and then present the claim to the insurance company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2008, claims examiners earned a median annual salary of $55,760.
- Appraisers assist during the claims process by appraising an item to determine its value. For example, appraisers for auto insurance companies will appraise a vehicle and estimate the cost of repairs or declare the vehicle totaled. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, auto appraisers earned a median salary of $53,440 per year as of 2008.
- Claims examiners assist adjusters and ensure that adjusters are following the correct procedures. Examiners are typically found in life and health insurance agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2008, claims examiners earned a median annual salary of $55,760.
- If an insurance claim is expected to be fraudulent, an insurance or claims investigator will investigate the case. Investigation can include background investigation, interviews and surveillance. Their findings are used to determine if the claim will go forward. Investigators may be required to testify should a case go to court. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, investigators made a median annual salary of $41,760 as of 2008.
- Customer service staff and other administrative staff provide support to the insurance claims adjusters and investigators. Customer service representatives are usually the first to speak with the customer when he is filing a claim and is the person the customer will speak with after hours. Administrative assistants and clerks assist in completing and processing paperwork associated with an insurance claim. Requirements for these positions vary by employer but most require a high school diploma or associate degree and good communication skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, customer service representatives made a median hourly salary of $15.55 and insurance claims clerks made $15.95.
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