Insurance claims and policy processing clerks handle the paperwork and data that keep insurance operations running. You review documents, verify information, and process claims and policies. High school education is the typical entry point, and the work is steady and in demand.
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Your day involves working with computers to enter, organize, and review insurance documents and claim information. You read policies and claims carefully to make sure everything is accurate and complete. You communicate with supervisors and coworkers to clarify details and solve problems. You check information against company standards to catch errors or missing pieces. You document what you find and record decisions. The work requires attention to detail, clear thinking, and the ability to follow procedures while handling sensitive customer information.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks earn a median of $49,230 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 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 20,300 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. From there, you can enter the field and learn on the job. Some employers offer training programs to help you get up to speed with their systems and processes. Strong reading and writing skills help you succeed, as does comfort with computers and basic math. You will build knowledge of insurance administration, customer service practices, and company policies as you work. Many people in this role start as clerks and move into more specialized positions over time.
Most people enter this field right after high school or with some college experience. If you are deciding between jumping in now or getting more training first, Pathly can map the insurance claims and policy processing clerk path that fits you to map out your options and talk through them with a counselor.
You do not need a license to work as an insurance claims and policy processing clerk, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like order, accuracy, and clear rules. You are comfortable with computers and detail work. You communicate well and think critically about information. You prefer roles where you follow established processes and help things run smoothly.
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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).