Tell me about yourself.

Start with your current role and the most relevant experience for claims adjusting, focusing on the past five to ten years and specific types of claims you handle. Briefly highlight key achievements that relate to accuracy, negotiation, or customer service, then connect your experience to why you want this role. Use a short structure you can practice: "I'm currently a [role] at [employer], where I [primary responsibility and one achievement]. Before that, I [prior relevant role]." Keep your answer to about two minutes and make each line purposeful. Avoid reciting your whole resume or sharing unrelated personal details, and steer clear of technical jargon unless the interviewer asks for specifics. Practice aloud to control pacing and to ensure you hit the points that match the job description.

Why do you want to be a claims adjuster?

Describe what draws you to claims work, such as problem solving, helping people through difficult situations, or analyzing losses, and tie that to concrete experiences you have. Emphasize the parts of the job you enjoy that match the role, like investigation, negotiation, or working with contractors and vendors. Give a specific example: you might say you enjoy resolving complex liability questions, and reference a claim where your investigation found key evidence that changed the outcome in favor of a fair settlement. That shows motivation and real-world impact. Be honest about challenges, for example stress from high caseloads, and explain how you manage them, such as using checklists or time blocks. Interviewers want to know you understand the demands and have practical coping strategies.

Walk me through your typical claims process from first notice to settlement.

Outline the standard stages you follow: intake and FNOL, investigation, evaluation, negotiation, and closure. For each stage, mention key activities you perform such as documenting statements, ordering estimates, coordinating inspections, and maintaining clear communication with claimants. Provide a concise example by describing a recent claim where you gathered photos and statements, ordered a repair estimate, and negotiated with a contractor and claimant to reach a timely settlement. This illustrates your process and shows you can move a file forward efficiently. Highlight any tools or forms you use to stay organized, like a checklist or claim management system, and mention regular communication cadence with claimants. Avoid implying you skip steps; emphasize completeness and timely updates.

How do you prioritize a heavy caseload?

Explain your method for triaging claims, for example by severity, statutory deadlines, exposure, and customer need, and note that you reassess priorities daily. Describe practical systems you use, such as a claims dashboard, color-coding urgent files, or a daily action list with time blocks for field work and calls. Give an example: during a storm surge you might prioritize life-safety and large-loss claims while delegating low-risk, low-value claims to a team member or scheduling them later in the week. This shows you can scale processes under pressure. Mention how you communicate with claimants about timelines to manage expectations, and how you escalate true emergencies quickly. Avoid saying you handle everything at once; instead show structured prioritization and delegation.

Describe a time you negotiated a difficult settlement.

Start with your negotiation approach: gather evidence, understand the claimant's needs, present clear options, and look for win-win resolutions where possible. Emphasize preparation, such as getting independent estimates, medical records, or contractor bids to support your position. Give a concrete example: explain the claim context, the disputed items, the evidence you collected, and the negotiation steps you took, such as offering staged payments or a compromise on scope that addressed the claimant's urgent needs. Quantify the result when possible, for example reduced exposure by a percentage or closed the file within a set timeframe. Share tips on tone and timing, like staying calm, using empathy to defuse emotion, and documenting each offer in writing. Avoid hardline ultimatums that can escalate disputes, and show how you use evidence to justify decisions.

How do you identify and handle potential fraud in a claim?

Explain the red flags you watch for, such as inconsistent statements, unusually high repair estimates, altered documentation, or frequent claim history, and describe how you document and escalate concerns. Emphasize following company protocols for investigations, involving SIU or legal when thresholds are met, and keeping a careful, objective record. Offer an example where you noticed inconsistencies in witness statements and repair invoices, ordered an independent inspection, and coordinated with SIU to confirm staged damage. Describe the steps you took to pause payment, secure evidence, and communicate professionally with the claimant. Stress that you treat every claimant respectfully and avoid accusations without proof, and note the importance of confidentiality and legal compliance. Mention common pitfalls like jumping to conclusions based on gut feelings without documented evidence.

How do you handle difficult or emotional claimants?

Describe your approach to de-escalation: listen actively, validate feelings, set clear expectations about the process, and provide regular updates to reduce anxiety. Use calm language, avoid technical terms without explanation, and offer next steps so the claimant feels informed rather than ignored. Give a specific instance where a claimant was upset about repair timelines, and explain how you scheduled an urgent inspection, provided interim assistance options, and followed up daily until a contractor visit was completed. That shows empathy and timely action. Note that documentation of each conversation is crucial, and explain that you balance compassion with protecting the company by not promising outcomes you cannot control. Avoid overpromising or making decisions outside your authority.

What experience do you have with field inspections and estimating damages?

Explain the types of inspections you've done, such as structural, auto, or contents, and highlight any certification or training in estimating or industry-standard estimating software. Describe your method on site: observe and photograph, take measurements, interview occupants, and prepare a thorough estimate with clear notes. Provide an example where your thorough inspection uncovered hidden damage that changed the repair scope, and explain how you updated the estimate and communicated the change to the claimant and vendor. Mention specific software or estimating guidelines you follow to support your findings. Warn against common mistakes like relying solely on photos without measurements, and emphasize corroborating on-site observations with contractor bids. If you have formal training or certifications, mention them briefly to build credibility.

How do you document your files to ensure they are audit-ready?

Describe a consistent documentation routine, for example logging every contact with date, time, and summary, saving all forms and photos in standardized folders, and using checklist templates to ensure all investigation steps are completed. Emphasize clear, factual language and attaching primary evidence rather than summaries when possible. Give a specific technique such as using a chronological notes section at the top of the file, tagging key documents for quick audit access, and running a weekly file review to catch missing items before closure. This demonstrates proactivity and reduces audit risk. Mention common audit pitfalls like vague notes, missing signatures, or undocumented approvals, and explain how you prevent them by following company templates and peer reviews. Regularly backing up digital files and confirming receipt of important documents is also helpful.

Which claims management systems and tools are you familiar with, and how do you use them?

List the core systems you have experience with, such as Guidewire, CCC, Xactimate, or company-specific platforms, and describe what you use them for, like tracking deadlines, storing photos, creating estimates, and generating reserve changes. Focus on practical examples of how the tool improved your efficiency or accuracy. Provide an example: explain how you used an estimating tool to create consistent repair scopes, then exported that information to schedule a vendor and update reserves, which shortened settlement time. Mention any reporting or dashboard features you used to prioritize high-exposure files. If you lack experience with a specific tool, say you are comfortable learning new systems quickly and give a recent example of adopting a new platform. Avoid overstating proficiency; be clear about which functions you can perform independently.

Tell me about a time you resolved a claim with limited information under a tight deadline.

Situation: I received a file after a weekend storm with a potential large-loss roof claim and limited initial documentation, and the claimant needed emergency tarping. Task: I had to secure the property, establish liability, and provide an initial estimate within 48 hours to approve emergency repairs. Action: I prioritized an emergency inspection, photographed damage, obtained a quick contractor estimate for temporary repairs, and contacted underwriting to confirm reserve authority. I also called the claimant to explain next steps and set expectations while I gathered missing documents. Result: The emergency repairs were approved and completed within 24 hours, preventing further water damage, and the file proceeded to full inspection and settlement without escalation. The claimant thanked us for the quick response, and we avoided a larger, more costly loss.

Describe a time you had to manage a conflict between a claimant and a contractor.

Situation: A claimant disputed a contractor's demolition scope, claiming the work was excessive and not related to the covered event, which halted repairs. Task: I needed to mediate between both parties, verify scope accuracy, and get repairs back on track while protecting company exposure. Action: I reviewed the contractor estimate, ordered an independent adjuster to inspect specific contested items, and held a joint call with the contractor and claimant to clarify the findings. I documented each position, presented objective evidence, and proposed a revised scope that addressed the claimant's concerns while covering necessary repairs. Result: The parties agreed to the revised scope and repairs resumed, closing the file within the revised timetable and avoiding litigation. My documentation and neutral facilitation preserved relationships and kept costs reasonable.

Give an example of a time you improved a process or reduced cycle time in claims handling.

Situation: Our team faced slow claim turnarounds because field inspections were scheduled weeks out, causing customer dissatisfaction and higher temporary housing costs. Task: I was asked to find ways to reduce inspection wait times and speed up settlements. Action: I proposed a triage system to identify claims that needed same-week inspections, worked with vendors to reserve weekly inspection blocks, and implemented a short intake checklist to capture essential details up front. I trained teammates on the new triage criteria so we could act consistently. Result: Inspection lead time dropped by about half, claim cycle time improved, and claimants received resolutions faster, lowering incidental costs. The change became part of our regular workflow because it produced measurable benefits.

claims adjuster Interview Questions: Complete Guide

Claims adjuster interview questions often cover technical knowledge, case management, and how you handle difficult interactions. Expect a mix of phone, panel, and scenario-based questions, and prepare concrete examples that show your judgment and communication skills.

Common Interview Questions

Behavioral Questions (STAR Method)

STAR Method: Structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, and Result to tell compelling stories about your experience.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Show your interest by asking thoughtful questions

•What does success look like in this claims adjuster role after six months, and what metrics will you use to measure it?
•Can you describe the team structure and who I would work with most closely on complex claims?
•What are the most common types of claims this office handles, and which present the biggest challenges?
•How does the company support professional development, for example training on estimating software or certification programs?
•Can you walk me through a recent difficult claim the team handled and what the main learning points were?

Interview Preparation Tips

Prepare two to three specific claim stories you can adapt to questions, focusing on your role, actions, and measurable outcomes.

Practice clear, concise explanations of technical items like reserve setting and estimating, using plain language for nontechnical interviewers.

Bring a folder with anonymized sample photos and a redacted claim timeline you can reference if asked about your process, but never share private claimant details.

Ask about next steps and timeline at the end of the interview, and follow up with a brief note that reiterates one or two strengths you discussed.

Overview

Preparing for a claims adjuster interview means understanding both technical tasks and real-world outcomes. Employers expect candidates to show they can investigate, evaluate, negotiate, and close claims while controlling cost and legal exposure.

For example, a property adjuster might handle 40–70 homeowner claims per month and target an average days-to-close of 15–30 days; a commercial adjuster may manage fewer files but values 30–50% higher per claim.

Focus on three measurable areas during preparation:

•Technical knowledge: Explain damage assessment, policy coverage language, depreciation methods, and subrogation. Cite tools such as Xactimate or Mitchell and give specific examples (e.g., "I used Xactimate to produce a line-item estimate of $12,400 for roof replacement").
•Process and metrics: Discuss metrics you’ve met—closure rate, salvage recovery percentage, or litigation rate (e.g., reduced litigation rate from 9% to 4%). Use numbers when possible.
•Communication and negotiation: Give concrete outcomes, like recovering $8,000 via subrogation or negotiating settlements within 10% of reserve.

Behavioral answers should follow a structured format: Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) and quantify the result. In addition, study state licensing rules—many states require a resident adjuster license and continuing education (often 12–24 hours biennially).

Actionable takeaway: Prepare 3–5 concise STAR stories with numbers, practice a 60–90 second pitch summarizing your experience, and list the software and licenses you hold.

Subtopics to Master Before the Interview

Divide your prep into focused subtopics so you can answer technical, situational, and cultural questions with confidence.

1) Core technical skills

•Policy interpretation: Explain exclusions, limits, endorsements. Example: "I identified a $5,000 limits issue due to a prior waiver endorsement and adjusted reserve accordingly."
•Estimating and documentation: Show familiarity with line-item estimating, depreciation schedules, photo documentation standards (minimum 15–25 images for complex losses).

2) Claims process and metrics

•Reserving: Describe initial reserve setting and when to escalate.
•KPIs: Be ready to discuss targets such as average days to close (15–45 days), file cycle time, and subrogation recovery (10–30%).

3) Legal and regulatory knowledge

•State licensing: Know your state’s exam provider and CE hours (e.g., 12–24 biennially).
•Fraud indicators and reporting obligations.

4) Systems and tools

•Estimating software: Xactimate, Mitchell, Guidewire—mention versions or modules you’ve used.
•Mobile and photo apps: Explain workflow for field uploads and chain-of-custody.

5) Soft skills and negotiation

•Conflict resolution: Provide a sample negotiation: "Lowered demand from $14,500 to $10,200 through documented scope and three vendor bids."
•Teamwork: Describe collaboration with SIU, contractors, and legal counsel.

Actionable takeaway: Create one short example per subtopic that includes specific numbers, software names, or regulatory points to cite during the interview.

Resources to Study and Practice

Use targeted resources to build technical knowledge, practice interview scenarios, and stay current with regulations.

•Licensing and regulatory

•National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC): state-specific licensing guides and model laws.
•State insurance department websites: download exam outlines and CE requirements (expect 12–24 hours biennially in many states).

•Certifications and formal study

•The Institutes (CPCU, AIC): industry-recognized courses on coverage, ethics, and claim handling.
•Adjuster-specific courses (e.g., AdjusterPro, Claims Adjuster School): exam prep and state license packages.

•Technical tools and training

•Xactimate training (vendor or online): complete at least one project estimate and export a PDF for your portfolio.
•Mitchell Estimating and Guidewire tutorials: mention version familiarity during interviews.

•Practical practice and interview prep

•Mock interviews: schedule 3–5 role-plays with a peer or mentor, including one for a complex multi-party liability claim.
•Sample scenarios: practice 6–8 STAR answers with measurable outcomes (dollar amounts, percentages, days saved).

•Reading and current events

•Claims Journal, PropertyCasualty360: read 2–3 articles per week on emerging trends, litigation, and technology.
•Local court opinions: review recent judgments affecting coverage in your state.

Actionable takeaway: Enroll in one certification course, complete an estimating project, and run five mock interviews focused on technical, behavioral, and negotiation scenarios.

claims adjuster Interview Questions: Complete Guide

Michael Rodriguez

Common Interview Questions

Behavioral Questions (STAR Method)

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Interview Preparation Tips

Overview

Subtopics to Master Before the Interview

Resources to Study and Practice

Interview Prep Checklist

Build your job search toolkit

claims adjuster Interview Questions: Complete Guide

Michael Rodriguez

Common Interview Questions

Q1Tell me about yourself.

Q2Why do you want to be a claims adjuster?

Q3Walk me through your typical claims process from first notice to settlement.

Q4How do you prioritize a heavy caseload?

Q5Describe a time you negotiated a difficult settlement.

Q6How do you identify and handle potential fraud in a claim?

Q7How do you handle difficult or emotional claimants?

Q8What experience do you have with field inspections and estimating damages?

Q9How do you document your files to ensure they are audit-ready?

Q10Which claims management systems and tools are you familiar with, and how do you use them?

Behavioral Questions (STAR Method)

B1Tell me about a time you resolved a claim with limited information under a tight deadline.

B2Describe a time you had to manage a conflict between a claimant and a contractor.

B3Give an example of a time you improved a process or reduced cycle time in claims handling.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Interview Preparation Tips

Overview

Subtopics to Master Before the Interview

Resources to Study and Practice

Interview Prep Checklist

Build your job search toolkit