Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators assess insurance claims, determine coverage, and investigate fraud. The work is detail-oriented, involves direct client contact, and requires a bachelor's degree. Here is what the job entails, what skills matter most, and how to break in.
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You review insurance claims and decide whether to approve or deny them based on policy terms and evidence. You interview claimants and witnesses, examine police reports and medical records, and identify inconsistencies that suggest fraud. You communicate findings to supervisors and clients, often in writing. You use computers to document cases, access databases, and track claim status. The role demands careful attention to detail, strong reading comprehension, and the ability to spot discrepancies in complex documents and statements.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators earn a median of $78,000 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 21,100 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a bachelor's degree. During your studies, focus on coursework in business, finance, law, and customer service. Develop your writing, critical thinking, and active listening skills, since you will spend time interviewing people and drafting reports. Consider internships in insurance or related fields to build practical experience. After graduation, you may start as a junior adjuster or investigator and advance as you gain experience and deepen your knowledge of insurance law and claims procedures.
The path typically starts with a bachelor's degree, so timing and school choice matter. If you are deciding between programs or want to map out your next steps, Pathly can map the claims adjuster, examiner, and investigator path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to find the right fit for your goals.
Many claims adjuster, examiner, and investigators must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable with rules and systems. You listen well, think critically, and enjoy solving problems through careful analysis and clear communication.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).