Top 11 Claim Adjuster Certifications

Certifications are important for a claim adjuster in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the necessary knowledge and experience to effectively handle claims. By having a certification, a claim adjuster can prove to employers that he or she is qualified for the position and is able to competently assess and resolve claims. Certifications also show potential employers that the adjuster is committed to advancing their career by maintaining current knowledge of insurance industry practices and trends. Finally, certifications provide an additional layer of credibility and assurance to potential employers that the adjuster is capable of handling complex claims in a professional manner.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Claim Adjusters and explain how they can help further a claim adjuster's career.

What are Claim Adjuster Certifications?

Claim adjuster certification is a program offered by many organizations and institutions that provides training and certification to individuals who work in the claims adjusting field. It is designed to help individuals gain an understanding of the insurance industry, as well as the various laws, regulations, and procedures used in the claims adjusting process. Certification also allows claim adjusters to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in this field, which can be beneficial when seeking employment or promotions within the industry.

The certification program typically covers topics such as claim investigation, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and other related processes. Additionally, it may include training on how to properly document a claim and review any relevant documents that may be required for settling a dispute. By completing a claim adjuster certification program, individuals will have a better understanding of how the claims process works and how best to handle different types of claims. This knowledge can be beneficial when looking for jobs in this field or when trying to negotiate higher salaries or better benefits from employers.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the specific claim adjuster certification requirements of the state in which you plan to practice. Each state may have a different set of requirements and regulations, so it’s important to be aware of them before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Claim Adjuster do?

Top 11 Claim Adjuster Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Claim Adjusters today.

1. Certified Professional Claims Adjuster (CPCA)

Certified Professional Claims Adjuster (CPCA) is a professional certification program offered by the Insurance Institute of America (IIA). The CPCA designation is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in claims adjusting.

The CPCA program consists of two parts: a comprehensive examination and an experience requirement. The comprehensive examination covers topics such as insurance law, policy interpretation, claim investigation, negotiation, and settlement. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time claims adjusting experience or equivalent education.

The CPCA exam is administered twice per year by the IIA. Exam fees vary depending on the location but usually range from $200 to $400.

To receive the CPCA designation, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher and meet the experience requirement. Once certified, CPCAs must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their certification.

2. Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator (CIFI)

Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator (CIFI) is a certification program offered by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). It is designed to provide insurance fraud investigators with specialized training and knowledge in the investigation of insurance fraud.

The CIFI certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in insurance fraud investigations, as well as successfully pass an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as investigative techniques, laws and regulations, and ethics.

In order to apply for the CIFI certification, applicants must first complete an online application form. Once completed, they must submit their application along with a $100 fee. The NICB will then review the application and determine if the applicant meets the requirements for the CIFI certification. If accepted, applicants will receive an email notification from the NICB with instructions on how to register for the exam.

Once registered, applicants have 90 days to take and pass the CIFI exam. If successful, they will receive their official CIFI certificate within four weeks of passing the exam. Those who fail can retake it after a 30-day waiting period.

The cost of taking the CIFI exam is $200 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

3. Certified Workers' Compensation Claims Adjuster (CWCA)

A Certified Workers' Compensation Claims Adjuster (CWCA) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the field of workers' compensation claims. The CWCA certification is awarded by the Professional Association of Adjusters International (PAAI) and requires successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the workers' compensation claims field and must pass a written exam that covers topics such as workers’ compensation laws, medical terminology, and claim processing procedures. Additionally, applicants must also submit proof of their educational background and professional experience to PAAI for review.

It typically takes an average of three months to complete the process from start to finish. To get started, applicants should visit the PAAI website to obtain information on the requirements for certification and apply online.

The cost for certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of PAAI. For non-members, the cost is $295 USD; for members, it is $245 USD.

4. Certified Liability Claims Adjuster (CLCA)

A Certified Liability Claims Adjuster (CLCA) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of liability claims adjusting. This certification is offered through the National Association of Professional Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).

In order to become a CLCA, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of full-time experience as a liability claims adjuster, or five years of part-time experience as a liability claims adjuster. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by NAPIA and complete 10 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their certification.

The cost for taking the CLCA exam varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of NAPIA. For members, the cost is $125; for nonmembers, it is $225. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other eligibility requirements, you will receive your CLCA designation from NAPIA. This certification demonstrates your expertise in handling liability claims and provides employers with assurance that you are qualified to handle these types of cases.

5. Accredited Claim Adjuster (ACA)

Accredited Claim Adjuster (ACA) is a professional designation awarded by the International Claims Association (ICA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the claims adjusting field. ACA holders are recognized as having achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of insurance, law, and claims adjusting.

To obtain an ACA designation, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. The eligibility requirements include at least three years of experience in the field of insurance or related industries, such as law or accounting. Applicants must also have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education courses in claims adjusting within the last three years.

The ACA exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as policy interpretation, claim evaluation and settlement techniques, legal aspects of claims handling, and ethical considerations. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken in-person or online.

The cost for taking the ACA exam varies depending on how it is taken and where it is taken. The cost for taking the exam online ranges from $150-$300 while taking it in-person typically costs around $400-$500.

6. Professional Property and Casualty Claims Adjuster (PPCCA)

Professional Property and Casualty Claims Adjuster (PPCCA) is a professional designation that is earned by individuals who have completed the necessary training and passed an examination. It is a certification that demonstrates knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures used to adjust property and casualty claims.

The amount of time it takes to get PPCCA certification varies depending on the individual's experience level. Generally, it takes about four months to complete the coursework and pass the exam. The cost for PPCCA certification typically ranges from $500-$1,000 depending on the provider.

To get PPCCA certification, individuals must first complete pre-licensing courses approved by their state's insurance department. After completing these courses, they must then pass an examination administered by the state's insurance department or a third-party testing agency. Once they have passed this exam, they will be issued a certificate of completion which will serve as proof that they have met all of the requirements for PPCCA certification.

In addition to completing pre-licensing courses and passing an exam, individuals must also meet certain other requirements in order to become certified as a Professional Property and Casualty Claims Adjuster (PPCCA). These include having at least two years of full-time claims adjusting experience or one year of full-time claims adjusting experience plus two years of related experience in fields such as law enforcement or firefighting; being at least 21 years old; having no criminal convictions; and passing a background check.

7. Certified Automobile Damage Appraiser (CADA)

Certified Automobile Damage Appraiser (CADA) is a professional designation that is earned by appraisers who have met the educational, experience, and examination requirements of the National Association of Certified Auto Appraisers (NACAA). The CADA credential signifies that an appraiser has achieved a level of expertise in the evaluation of vehicle damage.

To become a CADA, an individual must have at least three years of experience in the automobile appraisal field and must pass an exam administered by NACAA. The exam covers topics such as auto repair estimating, automotive parts identification and pricing, collision repair processes and procedures, insurance regulations, and other related topics.

The process to become certified typically takes about two months from start to finish. During this time period, applicants will need to fill out an application form with their personal information and submit it along with supporting documents such as proof of experience in the auto appraisal field. They will then be required to take and pass the NACAA certification exam.

The cost for becoming a CADA varies depending on the applicant’s location but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD. This fee includes the cost of taking the certification exam as well as any additional fees associated with submitting an application or obtaining necessary documents.

8. Certified Marine Claims Adjuster (CMCA)

A Certified Marine Claims Adjuster (CMCA) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of marine insurance claims adjusting. The CMCA designation is issued by the National Association of Marine Surveyors and Adjusters (NAMSA).

To become a CMCA, an individual must meet certain prerequisites, such as having at least three years of experience in the marine insurance claims adjusting field. In addition, applicants must pass a comprehensive written examination administered by NAMSA to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of marine insurance claims adjusting principles.

The cost to obtain the CMCA designation varies depending on the applicant’s experience level. For those with at least three years of experience in the field, the cost is $500 for NAMSA members and $750 for non-members. For those without any prior experience, the cost is $1,000 for NAMSA members and $1,500 for non-members.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on an individual’s study habits and preparation for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to six months to prepare for and pass the exam.

9. Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI)

Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI) is a professional certification awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the investigation of fires and explosions. The CFEI certification is administered by the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including: having a minimum of three years of experience in fire and explosion investigations; completing an approved training program; passing the CFEI exam; and submitting a portfolio demonstrating their investigative abilities.

The CFEI exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion covers topics such as fire dynamics, origin and cause determination, evidence collection, report writing, ethics, safety, and legal issues. The oral portion involves responding to questions posed by an examiner about a given scenario or situation related to fire or explosion investigation.

The cost for taking the CFEI exam is $400 plus any applicable taxes. It typically takes around four months to complete the application process and take the exam once all requirements are met.

10. Certified Independent Property Damage Appraiser (CIPDA)

A Certified Independent Property Damage Appraiser (CIPDA) is a professional who specializes in estimating the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property. CIPDAs are certified by the National Association of Independent Property Damage Appraisers (NAIPDA). This certification requires extensive training and experience in the field of property damage appraisal. To become certified, an applicant must have at least two years of experience in the field and pass a written exam.

The process to become a CIPDA typically takes between three and six months, depending on how quickly you can complete the necessary requirements. In order to apply for certification, you must first submit an application to NAIPDA along with your resume, references, and proof of experience. Once your application is approved, you will be required to take a written exam that covers topics such as insurance policies, state and federal regulations, construction methods, and more. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CIPDA certification.

The cost to become a CIPDA varies depending on where you live and any additional services or materials needed for the process. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 dollars to become certified. This includes fees for taking the written exam as well as any additional materials or services needed during the process.

11. Advanced Professional Property and Casualty Claims Adjuster (APPCA).

Advanced Professional Property and Casualty Claims Adjuster (APPCA) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Professional Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA). The purpose of this certification is to provide insurance adjusters with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively handle property and casualty claims.

To obtain the APPCA designation, you must have at least three years of experience in property and casualty claims adjusting, pass an exam administered by NAPIA, and complete a minimum number of continuing education hours each year. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as claim handling procedures, legal principles applicable to claims adjusting, and ethical considerations.

The cost for the APPCA designation varies depending on your membership status with NAPIA. Non-members pay $250 for the exam fee plus an additional $50 for processing fees. Members pay $200 for the exam fee plus an additional $50 for processing fees.

It typically takes about six weeks from the time you register for the exam until you receive your results. Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded your APPCA designation which is valid for two years from the date it was issued. To maintain your certification, you must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Do You Really Need a Claim Adjuster Certificate?

Yes, you do need a claim adjuster certificate if you want to become an insurance claims adjuster. A claim adjuster certificate is a credential that demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work in this field. It also shows that you understand the legal and regulatory requirements associated with insurance claims.

The most common way to earn a claim adjuster certificate is by taking an approved course from an approved school. The courses usually cover topics like insurance laws and regulations, principles of loss adjustment, estimating techniques, investigation methods, and adjusting techniques. After completing the course, you must pass an exam administered by the state in which you plan to practice. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate.

Having a claim adjuster certificate can be beneficial when looking for a job as it shows employers that you are knowledgeable about the field and have taken steps to learn more about it. It also indicates that you are serious about working in this profession and are willing to commit to learning all aspects of it. Having a certificate may help increase your chances of getting hired or promoted within the company.

In summary, having a claim adjuster certificate is essential for anyone wanting to become an insurance claims adjuster. It demonstrates your knowledge of the field and shows employers that you have taken steps to learn more about it. It can also help increase your chances of being hired or promoted within the company due to its indication of commitment and dedication towards becoming a successful claims adjuster.

Related: Claim Adjuster Resume Examples

FAQs About Claim Adjuster Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a claim adjuster?

Answer: The specific requirements for becoming a claim adjuster vary by state, but typically include passing an exam and obtaining a license. Some states may also require proof of experience or completion of an approved training program.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a claim adjuster?

Answer: Most state licensing exams can be completed in one day, and the amount of time needed to study for the exam will depend on the individual's background and knowledge. It is important to check with your state's licensing agency for specific information about their requirements.

3. Is there any continuing education required for claim adjusters?

Answer: Yes, most states require that claim adjusters complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification. The number of hours and type of courses required vary by state.

4. Are there any online courses available for claim adjusters?

Answer: Yes, there are many online courses available for those looking to become certified as a claim adjuster or meet the continuing education requirements for maintaining their certification. These courses are generally offered through accredited institutions or providers approved by your state's licensing agency.

5. What is the job outlook like for claims adjusters?

Answer: The job outlook is positive due to the growing demand in insurance services and increasing complexities of insurance claims processes. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average over the next decade, making it an attractive career choice for those interested in working in the insurance industry.