A private adjuster is also known as an insurance adjuster. It is a position that insurance companies offer as part of the insurance claim process. An adjuster assesses the damage of the property that is covered by the insurance policy to help the insurance company determine how much of a claim amount they should pay out on the policy. To become a private adjuster, most insurance companies prefer that you have a college degree and then each region and company have requirements you must meet to become a private adjuster.
If you do not have a four-year college degree, then you should go back to school to earn one. It is best to major in business or a related field. You should take some insurance, risk management and financial courses during your studies to obtain some of the knowledge and information you will need to become a private adjuster.
If you already have a four-year college degree then you are already one-step ahead. Even if your degree is not in business or a related field, most insurance companies will still consider you for the position. An added bonus is any insurance experience you may have from working in previous positions.
In the US, contact the Department of Insurance for the state where you want to work as a private adjuster. This agency can provide you with a list of certifications, licenses, training or continuing education courses you will need to take in order to become a private adjuster in the state.
You may also want to brush up on your computer skills. A private adjuster is required to create and manage documents and paperwork on the computer. Insurance companies also tend to have claims processing software to help private adjusters manage the workflow and the claims process. You may want to enroll in a course or two that focuses on these areas so you can hone your skills.
Apply to insurance companies for open private adjuster positions. You can go directly to the websites of each of the insurance companies you have an interest in becoming an employee of. You can also search listings on job boards. Attend local career fairs in your area and discuss possibilities with the insurance company representative attending the career fair.
You can become a private adjuster and find out about possible positions from professional organizations. The National Association of Independent Insurance Adjusters (NAIIA) has a job directory on its website that lists job openings for independent adjusters and private adjusters.
