An insurance accountant performs a range of accounting tasks, including those that involve creating and maintaining financial records, for a company involved in the insurance industry. To qualify to become an accountant in the insurance industry, you will likely need a bachelor's degree in a field such as accounting or finance. Most companies won't require you to have insurance education, but taking a course or two about insurance can help you prepare for this job. You might also prepare by developing organizational, analytical, and computer skills. Additionally, you might have to work as a junior accountant or trainee in the accounting department of an insurance company, or obtain certification before you earn the title of insurance accountant.
To become an insurance accountant, you will likely need to earn a college degree in a major such as accounting, business, or finance. Though not necessarily required, taking insurance-related classes may help you prepare for this career. You might also consider taking on insurance- and accounting-related internships when you are in college. If you can graduate not only with an education, but also with some experience in either or both of these fields, you may have an easier time competing against other job candidates.
You will typically need a wide range of skills and knowledge to become an insurance accountant. In addition to an in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, you will need to be well organized and self-motivating. Part of your job may include analyzing an insurance company's accounts, so analytical skills will likely be important. Making errors with your accounting could cause serious problems for your employer, so the ability to pay close attention to detail is critical. Additionally, you will likely need knowledge of business procedures and principles as well as excellent communication skills to land this job and perform well in it.
Computer skills also are typically required when you want to become an insurance accountant. Many financial documents are created and modified via computer, and you may also need a significant amount of experience with productivity software for this job. For example, prospective employers will likely expect you to have experience with database, word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software. Previous experience with commonly used accounting programs could help you land this job as well.
Depending on the employer with which you seek employment, you may have to begin by working in an entry-level position to become an insurance accountant. Some employers will want you to have at least a few years of experience working in the accounting department of an insurance company before you can work independently or take on the title of accountant. For example, some entry-level positions come with the title of junior accountant, accountant trainee, or accounting technician. After you've gained a few years of experience working in insurance accounting, you may then receive the title of insurance accountant.
Some employers will also require you to gain certification as an accountant before you can become an insurance accountant. In most cases, you will have to complete accounting education and gain a good deal of experience before you are eligible for certification. Once you meet the requirements of the organization with which you want to be certified, you may then have to pass a rigorous exam to obtain a credential.
