Top 10 Claims Assistant Certifications

Certifications for a claims assistant are important in the job market because they provide employers with proof that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to do the job. Certifications demonstrate that an individual has taken the time to gain additional qualifications, which can help them stand out from other applicants. They also give employers confidence that a candidate is capable of handling complex tasks related to claims processing, such as customer service and data entry. Additionally, certifications can help individuals secure higher salaries, since employers often view those with certifications as more valuable employees.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain how top certifications for Claims Assistants can contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Claims Assistant Certifications?

Claims Assistant Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become proficient in various aspects of claims assistance. This certification is aimed at those who have an interest in helping insurance companies process and evaluate claims. The program focuses on teaching individuals the fundamentals of insurance procedures, terminology, filing requirements, and customer service techniques. It also provides an overview of the legal aspects of insurance claims as well as how to properly document and submit claims for payment.

By completing this certification program, individuals gain the necessary skills to be successful in the industry. They learn how to accurately assess a claim’s validity; investigate potential fraudulent activity; ensure that all paperwork is properly submitted and approved; communicate effectively with customers; and understand the regulations governing the industry. Additionally, they gain experience in managing customer complaints and resolving disputes quickly and efficiently.

Overall, this certification helps individuals become more knowledgeable about insurance policies, procedures, laws, and regulations so that they can provide better service to their clients. It also gives them an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise by obtaining a professional certification that will give them an edge over other applicants when seeking employment or promotions within the industry.

Pro tip: Before enrolling in a claims assistant certification program, make sure to research the program and ensure it is accredited by a reputable organization. Additionally, look for programs that provide hands-on experience and real-world applications to help you better understand the material and prepare you for your career.

Related: What does a Claims Assistant do?

Top 10 Claims Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Claims Assistants today.

1. Certified Professional Claims Assistant (CPCA)

Certified Professional Claims Assistant (CPCA) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Insurance Adjusters (NAIA). This certification is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in insurance claims adjusting. It demonstrates that an individual has met the required standards of knowledge and experience in the field.

The CPCA certification program consists of three parts: an online course, an exam, and a practical application. The online course covers topics such as insurance terminology, legal concepts, and claim processes. The exam tests an individual’s understanding of these topics as well as their ability to apply them to real-world scenarios. Finally, the practical application requires applicants to demonstrate their skills by submitting documentation from actual claims they have handled.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPCA certification process. During this time, applicants must complete all three components of the program and pass both the online course and exam with a minimum score of 80%.

The cost for obtaining the CPCA certification varies depending on whether you are taking the course or exam through NAIA or another provider. For example, if you take both components through NAIA, it will cost $295 for members or $395 for non-members. If you take one component through NAIA and one through another provider, it will cost $245 for members or $345 for non-members.

To get started with your CPCA certification process, you must first register with NAIA either online or by mail using their registration form. Once registered, you will be able to access all necessary materials and information about completing each component of the program.

2. Certified Claims Adjuster (CCA)

A Certified Claims Adjuster (CCA) is a professional designation given to individuals who have completed a comprehensive training program and passed an examination that demonstrates their knowledge of the insurance claims process. The CCA designation is offered by the National Association of Professional Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).

To become a CCA, you must complete a NAPIA-approved training program and pass an exam. The training programs vary in length, but typically take between three and six months to complete. The cost of the training program varies depending on which provider you choose, but can range from $500-$2,000. After completing the training program, you must pass an exam administered by NAPIA. The exam fee is $150 for members of NAPIA or $200 for non-members.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements, you will be awarded your CCA designation. This certification is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years by completing continuing education credits or taking another exam.

3. Certified Claims Examiner (CCE)

A Certified Claims Examiner (CCE) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of claims processing. To become certified, individuals must complete a comprehensive training program and pass an examination administered by the American Institute for Certified Professional Examiners (AICPE).

The CCE program consists of two parts: a self-study course and an online exam. The self-study course covers topics such as medical terminology, insurance regulations, claims processing procedures, and legal principles related to claims processing. The online exam tests the knowledge acquired during the self-study course.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CCE program. However, this timeline can vary depending on how quickly you are able to study and complete the required materials.

To get certified as a CCE, you must first register with AICPE and pay the registration fee. After registering, you will be sent access to the self-study course and instructions on how to take the online exam. Once you have completed both components of the program and passed the exam, you will receive your certification from AICPE.

The cost of becoming a CCE varies depending on whether or not you are already an AICPE member. For non-members, it costs $350 for registration plus $150 for each module in the self-study course ($450 total). For members, it costs $250 for registration plus $100 for each module in the self-study course ($350 total).

4. Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU)

Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (AICPCU). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and understanding in the field of property and casualty insurance.

The CPCU designation requires candidates to complete eight courses, pass examinations for each course, and meet certain experience requirements. The courses cover topics such as insurance operations, personal lines insurance, commercial lines insurance, risk management and finance, ethics, law and regulation, and business law. Successful completion of the program results in the award of the CPCU designation.

It typically takes two to three years to complete all of the required courses and exams. Candidates can choose to take classes online or in person at an AICPCU-approved school. The cost of the program varies depending on which school you attend; however, it typically ranges from $3,000-$4,000.

5. Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)

Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) is a professional designation awarded to insurance professionals who have completed a comprehensive education program in the field of insurance. The CIC designation is recognized as a mark of excellence and professionalism in the insurance industry.

The CIC program consists of five core courses and three elective courses, which are designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the principles, practices, and strategies used in the insurance industry. The five core courses cover topics such as personal lines insurance, commercial lines insurance, risk management and loss control, claims handling, and agency operations. The three elective courses cover topics such as employee benefits, life and health insurance, and financial planning.

The CIC program takes approximately two years to complete. To become certified, individuals must pass all eight exams with a score of 75% or higher. Candidates may take each exam up to three times before they must retake the entire coursework.

The cost of obtaining the CIC designation varies depending on where you take the coursework; however, it typically costs around $2,500 for all eight courses. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exams that range from $50-$100 per exam.

6. Certified Risk Manager (CRM)

Certified Risk Manager (CRM) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in risk management. The CRM credential is offered by the Global Risk Management Institute (GRMI), which is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and certification programs for risk professionals.

The CRM credential requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of risk management principles, processes, and practices through a comprehensive exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in risk management or related fields. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as enterprise risk management, operational risk, financial risk, insurance, legal liability, and more.

The CRM exam typically takes about four hours to complete. After successfully completing the exam, individuals will receive their CRM certificate from GRMI. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $500-$700 USD.

7. Accredited Claims Adjuster (ACA)

Accredited Claims Adjuster (ACA) is a professional designation awarded by the Insurance Institute of Canada. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field of claims adjusting. The designation is awarded to those who have successfully completed an approved course, passed a written examination and met certain other criteria.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for the ACA designation. The first step is to take an approved course from an accredited institution. This can be done online or in-person, depending on what is available in your area. After completing the course, you will need to pass a written exam which covers topics such as insurance law, claims handling practices and ethics. Finally, you must meet specific experience requirements which vary depending on your jurisdiction.

The cost of obtaining the ACA designation varies depending on where you take the course and any additional fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, it should cost between $500-$1,000 USD for all of the necessary materials and fees associated with becoming an Accredited Claims Adjuster.

Once you have obtained your ACA designation, you will be able to work as a claims adjuster in most jurisdictions across Canada as well as some international locations. You will also gain access to exclusive networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry and may even qualify for higher salaries than non-designated adjusters due to your increased knowledge and expertise.

8. Associate in Claims (AIC)

The Associate in Claims (AIC) is a professional designation offered by The Institutes, a leading provider of insurance education and training. This designation is designed to provide an understanding of the principles and practices of property-casualty claims adjusting. It is intended for individuals who are new to the claims industry or those who wish to increase their knowledge and skills in this area.

It typically takes about four months to complete the AIC program, depending on the individual's dedication and study habits. The program consists of 10 courses covering topics such as insurance contracts, legal principles, coverage analysis, investigation techniques, settlement strategies, and customer service. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time.

To get an AIC designation, you must first complete all 10 courses and pass the associated exams with a score of 70% or higher. After completing the courses and passing the exams, you will need to submit an application form along with your transcripts from The Institutes for review by their staff. Once approved, you will receive your AIC certificate.

The cost of obtaining an AIC designation varies depending on whether you purchase each course individually or enroll in one of The Institutes' bundled packages that include all 10 courses at a discounted rate. The cost can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 USD depending on which option you choose.

9. Associate in Risk Management (ARM)

Associate in Risk Management (ARM) is a professional designation offered by The Institutes, an organization that provides education and research for the risk management and insurance industry. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful risk managers.

The ARM program consists of four courses: Introduction to Risk Management, Principles of Risk Management, Enterprise Risk Management, and Professionalism in Risk Management. Each course takes approximately 15 hours to complete, so it takes about 60 hours in total to complete the program.

To get the ARM designation, you must pass all four courses with a grade of 70% or higher. You can take each course online or through self-study materials provided by The Institutes. Once you have passed all four courses, you will receive your ARM certification.

The cost of the ARM program varies depending on how you choose to take the courses. If you take them online through The Institutes’ website, the cost is $1,495 USD for all four courses. If you opt for self-study materials instead, the cost is $895 USD for all four courses.

10. Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS)

The Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS) is a global, non-profit organization dedicated to the professional development of liability underwriters. It was founded in 1986 and provides educational resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for its members.

Membership in PLUS is open to individuals who are actively involved in the professional liability insurance industry. This includes underwriters, agents, brokers, adjusters, attorneys, and other related professionals. Membership requires an application process that includes a background check and references from two PLUS members. Upon approval, members receive access to exclusive educational opportunities such as webinars and conferences as well as discounts on products and services offered by PLUS partners.

It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete the membership process after submitting an application online or through mail. The cost of membership is $100 per year for individuals or $500 per year for organizations.

Do You Really Need a Claims Assistant Certificate?

Yes, if you are considering a career in the insurance industry as a Claims Assistant, a certificate is essential. The Claims Assistant Certificate (CAC) provides the necessary knowledge and skills to properly handle claims and be successful in the field. With this certification, you will have the confidence to work with clients and insurers on their claims, ensuring that all paperwork is accurate and up-to-date.

The CAC covers topics such as customer service, data entry accuracy, communication techniques, medical terminology and legal aspects of claims handling. This certificate also teaches you how to use software programs related to claims management. You will learn how to process claims quickly and efficiently while ensuring accuracy in data entry and compliance with policy standards.

In addition to the knowledge gained from the certificate program, having a CAC will make you more attractive to employers looking for qualified applicants for their Claims Assistant positions. It shows potential employers that you are serious about your career in the insurance industry and that you have taken the time to educate yourself on the subject matter.

Overall, obtaining a Claims Assistant Certificate is an important step towards becoming a successful Insurance Professional or Claims Adjuster in the future. It gives you an edge over other applicants who may not have completed this type of training program.

Related: Claims Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Claims Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Claims Assistant Certification?

Answer: A Claims Assistant Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of insurance claims administration. It is designed to help individuals gain the necessary skills and qualifications to become successful in this career field.

2. How do I become certified as a Claims Assistant?

Answer: In order to obtain your certification, you will need to complete an approved program of study that includes both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. After completing the program, you will then need to pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body.

3. What types of jobs can I get with a Claims Assistant Certification?

Answer: With your certification, you may be qualified for positions such as claims adjuster, examiner or investigator, claims representative, or specialist in insurance fraud investigation.

4. How long does it take to complete the Claims Assistant Certification program?

Answer: The length of time required to complete the certification program varies depending on the specific requirements set by the certifying body but typically takes between six months and one year.

5. What are some of the benefits of having a Claims Assistant Certification?

Answer: Having this certification can open many doors for you professionally, allowing you to work in various areas within insurance companies or other organizations related to the industry. Additionally, having this credential can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and make you more attractive for promotions or higher salaries within your current position.