Why Continuing Education is Crucial for Insurance Adjusters

The insurance industry is always changing—new regulations, technology, and industry practices emerge every year. For insurance adjusters, keeping up with these changes isn’t just important—it’s essential. 

Continuing education is the key to staying competitive, improving skills, and providing the best service possible. But what does that really mean, and why does it matter so much? 

Keeping Up with a Changing Industry

Insurance is a fast-moving field. New laws, regulations, and tools reshape the way adjusters handle claims. For example, in the U.S., over 35% of claims-handling tasks are now assisted by artificial intelligence (AI)—a trend that continues to grow. 

Adjusters need to understand how to use these tools to their advantage.

Whether it’s learning about new claims software or understanding how AI affects damage assessments, continuing education ensures adjusters are equipped to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape. Without staying current, adjusters risk falling behind—and in such a competitive industry, that’s not an option.

It’s Not Just About Licenses

Sure, every state has its own licensing requirements, and continuing education is often part of that. For example, Texas requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years for insurance adjusters. But this isn’t just about ticking off a requirement on a checklist.

Specialized courses in areas like catastrophe claims, property damage evaluation, or fraud detection can help adjusters stand out. In fact, studies show that adjusters who earn additional certifications—like the Associate in Claims (AIC)—can earn up to 20% more annually compared to their peers without certifications.

Boosting Credibility with Clients

When a client files a claim, they’re often under stress. They need to trust that the adjuster handling their case knows exactly what they’re doing. Continuing education builds that trust by ensuring adjusters are sharp, informed, and confident.

In fact, a survey by the Insurance Institute of America found that 78% of policyholders were more satisfied with adjusters who could clearly explain policy details and offer efficient solutions. 

Education plays a direct role in this, as it equips adjusters with updated knowledge and problem-solving skills.

Opening Doors to Career Growth

Insurance adjusting isn’t just a job—it’s a career with countless opportunities to grow. By investing in continuing education, adjusters can position themselves for promotions, salary increases, or specialized roles. For instance, adjusters who specialize in catastrophe claims or liability assessment often see significantly higher demand for their expertise, especially after major disasters.

And it’s not just about money. Additional training can also open doors to new roles in management, risk assessment, or even consulting. A report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that claims adjusters with advanced certifications are 40% more likely to move into senior roles within five years compared to those without them.

Strengthening Problem-Solving Skills

Every insurance claim is unique, and adjusters face a wide range of challenges daily. From complex liability disputes to catastrophic property losses, strong problem-solving skills are essential.

Continuing education sharpens these skills by exposing adjusters to case studies, real-world scenarios, and best practices. This training allows them to confidently tackle difficult claims and deliver better outcomes for policyholders and insurance companies alike.

The Bottom Line

Continuing education isn’t just a regulatory box to check—it’s a career essential. Adjusters who invest in learning stay ahead of industry changes, improve their skills, and gain the trust of clients and employers.

Whether you’re a seasoned adjuster or just starting out, the stats don’t lie: continuing education leads to higher earnings, better opportunities, and greater job satisfaction. 

So don’t see it as an obligation—think of it as an investment in your future.

Next
Next

How to Handle Large Loss Claims Like a Pro