What is the term for the person who investigates and settles insurance claims?

A claims adjuster is the insurance professional who investigates and settles insurance claims. The role may also be called a claim adjuster, claims handler, or loss adjuster in some countries.

After a claim is reported, an adjuster gathers facts by interviewing the claimant and witnesses, reviewing documents and records, inspecting damaged property, and checking the policy’s terms. The adjuster evaluates whether the loss is covered, estimates its value, establishes reserves or payment recommendations, and may negotiate a settlement.

The title covers several arrangements. A staff adjuster works for an insurer, an independent adjuster handles claims for insurers on a contract basis, and a public adjuster represents the policyholder in certain first-party property claims. Their interests and authority differ, so “adjuster” alone does not identify whom the person represents.

An insurance agent sells or services policies, an underwriter evaluates risks before coverage is issued, and an actuary analyzes statistical and financial risk. Those jobs may interact with claims, but they do not normally perform the adjuster’s investigation-and-settlement function.