How to Find the Right Claims Adjuster Job for You
Whether you’re just getting licensed or looking to shift into a more flexible role, choosing the right claims adjuster job is one of the most important steps in launching a successful adjusting career. From staff positions at insurance companies to independent and public adjusting roles, there are a variety of paths — and each has its own pros and cons.
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Staff Adjuster (Company/Carrier Adjuster)
These adjusters are employees of an insurance company. You’ll typically receive a salary, benefits, and a more traditional 9-to-5 schedule.
Pros:
Job stability
Regular paycheck
Benefits like health insurance and PTO
Cons:
Less flexibility
Limited earning potential compared to CAT deployments
Independent Adjuster (IA)
Independent adjusters are contracted through IA firms and deployed on behalf of insurance carriers — especially during catastrophes (CATs).
Pros:
High income potential during storm seasons
Travel opportunities
Flexible work structure
Cons:
Income can be seasonal and unpredictable
Must manage own equipment, licenses, and sometimes travel
IA firms often act as the middleman between you and the insurance company, assigning claims to adjusters when disasters strike or when a carrier needs additional help.
Public Adjuster (PA)
Public adjusters work directly for policyholders, not insurance companies. Their job is to advocate for the insured and help them receive a fair payout.
Note: This path is not available in every state. It is a popular option in Florida, where homeowners often need help navigating complex property claims.
Pros:
Represent the insured, not the carrier
Potentially lucrative, especially in high-value claims
Great for those who enjoy advocacy and negotiation
Cons:
Requires a different license (especially in Florida)
Earnings based on commission or settlement percentage
Florida vs. Texas: Key Differences
Florida
Requires a specific 6-20 All-Lines Adjuster License or 3-20 Public Adjuster License depending on your path.
Florida has a high demand for both independent and public adjusters due to frequent hurricanes and tropical storms.
Public adjusting is more common and well-regulated.
Continuing education is mandatory to maintain your license.
Texas
Offers the Texas All-Lines Adjuster License, which is highly portable (reciprocal with many states).
Most jobs lean toward independent or staff adjuster roles.
Public adjusting exists but is less common compared to Florida.
Licensing is required unless you work for a carrier that self-trains and licenses internally.
How to Choose the Right Path
Ask yourself:
Do you want a steady paycheck or are you open to seasonal, high-income deployments?
Are you willing to travel?
Do you enjoy customer service and advocacy, or are you more analytical and task-focused?
Would you rather work with insurance companies or for the policyholder?
Next Steps to Launch Your Adjusting Career
At 2021 Training, we help aspiring adjusters get licensed, trained, and job-ready for Texas, Florida, and beyond. Whether you want to work for an IA firm, explore public adjusting, or land a job at a major insurance company, our courses and guidance will set you on the right path.
👉 Explore our licensing courses, Xactimate training, and CE bundles to start your career the right way.
