Top 10 Claims Examiner Certifications

Certifications are important for a claims examiner in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and experience that employers look for when hiring. Employers want to know that their employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties efficiently and accurately. Having certifications shows employers that a claims examiner has the qualifications necessary to do the job properly, which can make them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certifications can help differentiate a claims examiner from other applicants who may not have the same qualifications or experience.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Claims Examiners and explains how they can help to advance a claims examiner's career.

What are Claims Examiner Certifications?

Claims examiner certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the area of claims processing. This certification is typically earned after completing a comprehensive training program, which covers topics such as insurance policies, legal regulations, claim forms, and customer service. With this certification, individuals are better equipped to manage claims processing procedures more efficiently and effectively.

Having claims examiner certification can provide many benefits to those involved in the insurance industry. For instance, it can assist employers in identifying qualified candidates for open positions related to claims processing and management. This credential also helps to ensure that the employee has received proper training and is knowledgeable about the relevant laws and regulations governing the insurance industry. Furthermore, having this certification may give potential employers confidence in an individual’s ability to handle customer service inquiries regarding claim issues or disputes. Finally, having this certification may also help individuals with their career advancement opportunities within the insurance industry as employers often look for employees who have obtained specialized certifications or credentials when considering promotions or other job opportunities.

Pro Tip: When looking into claims examiner certification, make sure to research the requirements for each program carefully. Different programs may have different prerequisites, such as education and experience, that need to be met in order to qualify. Additionally, it is important to look into the cost of the certification program and any continuing education requirements that may be necessary to maintain certification.

Related: What does a Claims Examiner do?

Top 10 Claims Examiner Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Claims Examiner (CPCU)

Certified Professional Claims Examiner (CPCU) is a professional designation offered by The Institutes, an organization that provides continuing education and certification programs for the insurance industry. The CPCU designation is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the claims process and have achieved a high level of competency in the field.

The CPCU designation requires applicants to complete eight courses, including four core courses and four elective courses. The core courses cover topics such as claims operations, legal principles of insurance, risk management principles and practices, and ethics. The elective courses cover specialized areas such as workers’ compensation, property damage claims, liability claims, and subrogation.

In order to obtain the CPCU designation, applicants must pass all eight exams with a score of 75% or higher. The exams are offered online through The Institutes' website or at designated testing centers throughout the United States. It typically takes between one and two years to complete all eight exams depending on how quickly you can study for them.

The cost of obtaining the CPCU designation varies depending on where you take your exams and whether or not you purchase any additional materials such as textbooks or study guides. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 to obtain the CPCU designation.

2. Certified Claims Adjuster (CCA)

A Certified Claims Adjuster (CCA) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of insurance claims. The CCA designation is granted by the National Association of Professional Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA). To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam and meet certain educational requirements.

The exam covers topics such as insurance law, claim investigation, negotiation and settlement techniques, and customer service. It typically takes between four to six months to prepare for the exam, depending on the applicant’s prior knowledge and experience.

To get started, individuals must first complete an online application with NAPIA. Once accepted, they will receive study materials including practice exams and course outlines. After studying for the exam, applicants must then submit proof of their education credentials and pass the certification exam.

The cost of becoming a CCA varies depending on whether or not you choose to take an online course or use self-study materials. Online courses typically range from $500 - $1,000 while self-study materials can cost anywhere from $200 - $400. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $125 for taking the certification exam itself.

3. Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator (CIFI)

Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator (CIFI) is a professional certification program offered by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The CIFI certification is designed to provide insurance fraud investigators with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to detect, investigate and prevent insurance fraud.

The CIFI program consists of three parts: an online exam, a field experience component and a final written examination. The online exam covers topics such as insurance fraud investigation techniques, legal aspects of insurance fraud investigation, evidence collection and analysis, report writing and presentation. After passing the online exam, applicants must complete a minimum of 200 hours of field experience in order to be eligible for the final written examination.

To get the CIFI certification, applicants must successfully pass both the online exam and the final written examination. Applicants can take up to two years to complete all three parts of the CIFI program.

The cost of obtaining the CIFI certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an NICB member. For non-members, the cost is $1,500 plus any applicable taxes. For NICB members, there is no additional fee beyond membership dues.

4. Certified Workers’ Compensation Claims Examiner (CWCE)

A Certified Workers’ Compensation Claims Examiner (CWCE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of workers’ compensation claims. The CWCE program is administered by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). The purpose of the certification is to ensure that workers’ compensation claims are handled efficiently and fairly, while protecting the rights of employers and injured workers.

The CWCE program requires applicants to pass a comprehensive examination covering all aspects of workers’ compensation claims handling. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and includes topics such as claim investigation, claim evaluation, dispute resolution, medical management, legal issues, and regulatory compliance. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of relevant state laws and regulations.

The CWCE program typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete an online application form and submit supporting documentation such as transcripts or letters of recommendation. Once approved, applicants can then register for the exam which is offered twice a year at select locations throughout the United States.

The cost for the CWCE program varies depending on the applicant's location; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. This fee covers registration for the exam as well as study materials such as textbooks or practice exams.

5. Accredited Claim Adjuster (ACA)

Accredited Claim Adjuster (ACA) is a designation given to individuals who have passed an examination and met other educational requirements. The ACA designation is awarded by the Insurance Institute of America (IIA). It is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in the insurance claims adjusting field.

The ACA designation requires passing an exam, which covers topics such as insurance contracts, claims handling, and legal principles. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete. In order to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in claims adjusting or related activities.

In addition to taking the exam, applicants must also complete at least 24 hours of approved continuing education credits within two years prior to applying for the ACA designation. These credits can be earned through courses offered by IIA or other approved providers.

The cost of obtaining an ACA designation varies depending on where you take the exam and how much continuing education you need to complete. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1,000 for all fees associated with obtaining the designation.

6. Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU)

The Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) is a professional designation awarded by The Institutes, a leading provider of risk management and property-casualty insurance education. The CPCU designation is recognized worldwide as the standard of excellence in the field of property-casualty insurance. It is designed to provide individuals with an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices of property-casualty insurance, risk management, and financial planning.

To earn the CPCU designation, candidates must complete eight rigorous courses and pass comprehensive examinations covering topics such as ethics, law, finance, accounting, economics, and marketing. Depending on individual experience and background knowledge, it typically takes two to four years to complete the program.

In addition to completing coursework and exams, candidates must also meet other requirements including three years of full-time work experience in the property-casualty insurance field or related areas such as banking or law; completion of an ethics course; and adherence to a code of professional conduct.

The cost for each course varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$800 per course. In addition to tuition fees, there are also exam fees which range from $100-$200 per exam.

7. Associate in Claims (AIC)

The Associate in Claims (AIC) designation is a professional credential offered by the American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (AICPCU). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of insurance claims.

To obtain the AIC designation, individuals must complete four courses: Introduction to Insurance, Principles of Insurance, Commercial Property and Liability Insurance, and Claims Practices. Each course requires a passing grade on an exam administered by the AICPCU. The entire program typically takes six to nine months to complete.

The cost of the AIC program varies depending on whether you choose to take courses online or in a traditional classroom setting. Online courses typically cost between $500-$700 per course, while traditional classroom courses can range from $1,000-$2,000 per course. Additionally, there is an application fee of $50 when applying for the AIC designation.

Once all four courses are completed with passing grades on each exam, applicants will receive their AIC designation from the AICPCU. This credential is recognized throughout the insurance industry as evidence of expertise in claims practices and procedures.

8. Professional Liability Underwriter Certification Program (PLUP)

The Professional Liability Underwriter Certification Program (PLUP) is a professional certification program offered by the Insurance Institute of America (IIA). The program is designed to provide specialized knowledge and skills to professionals who underwrite professional liability insurance. This certification will help professionals to better understand the complexities of this type of insurance and how to effectively manage risks associated with it.

The PLUP course consists of three modules: Professional Liability Underwriting, Professional Liability Risk Management, and Professional Liability Claims Management. Each module takes approximately two weeks to complete, for a total program duration of six weeks. The course is self-paced, so participants can work at their own speed and progress through the material as quickly or slowly as they need.

In order to get certified in PLUP, participants must first pass an exam administered by the IIA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test a participant’s knowledge on topics such as underwriting principles, risk management techniques, and claims management strategies. After passing the exam, participants will receive their certification from the IIA.

The cost of the PLUP program varies depending on whether you are an individual or group participant. For individuals, the cost is $1,495 USD for all three modules plus the exam fee; for groups of five or more people, the cost is $1,295 USD per person for all three modules plus the exam fee.

Overall, obtaining a PLUP certification can be beneficial for those looking to specialize in professional liability underwriting and gain valuable insight into this area of insurance.

9. Certified Automobile Damage Appraiser (CADA)

A Certified Automobile Damage Appraiser (CADA) is a professional who is trained and certified to accurately assess the damage of an automobile. The CADA will conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle, taking into account all of the factors that contribute to its condition, such as age, make and model, mileage, and any previous repairs or modifications. They will then provide an estimate of the repair costs based on their findings.

The process of becoming a CADA typically involves completing an accredited training program in automotive appraisal and passing a series of examinations. Depending on the state where you are located, there may be additional requirements such as background checks or other certifications. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to a year to become certified.

In order to get your CADA certification, you must first find an accredited training program in your area. Many states have specific requirements for these programs so it’s important to do your research before enrolling in one. Once you have completed the coursework and passed all required exams, you will receive your certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The cost for becoming a CADA varies depending on the program you choose and any additional certifications or qualifications required by your state. In general, expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2,000 for tuition and exam fees. Additionally, there may be fees associated with renewing your certification every few years.

10. Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP)

Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP) is a professional designation awarded by the Global Risk Management Institute (GRMI). The CRMP designation is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in risk management. It provides an important credential for those working in the field of risk management and helps employers identify qualified candidates.

It takes approximately six months to complete the program, which includes self-study, online courses, and an examination. To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as risk assessment, risk management strategies, legal considerations, and communication skills.

In order to be eligible for certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of risk management or related areas. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education in risk management topics within the past two years.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD depending on whether you choose to take an online or in-person course.

Do You Really Need a Claims Examiner Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual’s career goals and desired job prospects. If someone is interested in becoming a claims examiner, then a certificate may be beneficial for them in order to demonstrate their knowledge of the field and their abilities as an examiner. A claims examiner certificate can give potential employers confidence that the applicant has a detailed understanding of the job responsibilities and can perform these duties accurately and efficiently.

In addition, having a certificate may also provide additional benefits such as access to continuing education opportunities or exclusive membership in professional associations that are related to the field of claims examining. These benefits could be particularly useful for those looking to advance their career or gain more specialized knowledge in this area.

Overall, whether or not someone needs a claims examiner certificate really depends on their individual goals and aspirations. For some, having a certificate may be necessary in order to find employment in this field while for others it may not be required but could still be beneficial depending on their desired career path.

Related: Claims Examiner Resume Examples

FAQs About Claims Examiner Certifications

1. What is a Claims Examiner Certification?

A Claims Examiner Certification is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a person's knowledge and skills related to the examination of insurance claims. It demonstrates a professional's ability to accurately assess and process claims in accordance with industry standards.

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

In order to become certified as a Claims Examiner, you must first complete approved training courses or programs related to the field. You will then need to pass the relevant exam administered by an accredited organization such as the Insurance Institute of America or the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Claims Examiner?

Yes, most organizations require applicants to have at least two years of experience working in insurance or related fields before they can sit for the certification exam. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to have completed specific coursework or demonstrate certain levels of proficiency in related topics prior to taking the exam.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Claims Examiner?

The time frame for achieving certification varies depending on individual abilities, preparation, and availability of resources; however, most people are able to complete all requirements within six months or less.

5. What are some benefits of becoming certified as a Claims Examiner?

Becoming certified as a Claims Examiner provides professionals with enhanced credibility and recognition among employers and peers alike, increases their chances for career advancement opportunities, provides access to higher-paying job roles and positions, and enables them to gain knowledge on best practices for handling claims processing tasks efficiently and effectively.