Claims & Disputes

Adjuster

A licensed professional who investigates and settles insurance claims for the insurer or for the policyholder.

Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology

Definition

A licensed professional — either employed by an insurer or hired independently — who investigates insurance claims, assesses damages, and recommends settlement amounts. Public adjusters work for policyholders; staff adjusters work for the insurance company. Independent adjusters may work for either side as contractors. After a covered loss, the adjuster will inspect the damage, request documentation, and write an estimate that becomes the basis for the insurer's payment offer.

Where this term matters

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Tip

Glossary definitions are educational. Always check your own policy language — insurers can define common terms differently from one another. When in doubt, request a written explanation from your agent.

Related terms

Public AdjusterA public adjuster works exclusively for the insured—not the insurance company—to document losses, interpret policy language, and maximize claim settlements.Proof of Loss (POL)A Proof of Loss is a required claims document—often notarized—that the policyholder submits to provide a formal accounting of their loss, triggering the insurer's obligation to pay or deny.Appraisal ClauseThe appraisal clause provides an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for disagreements about the dollar value of a loss—without going to court.
Source: Cover Forge USA editorial team|Last verified: May 2026|Methodology
Definitions are educational and may be simplified. Always refer to your policy contract and consult a licensed agent for terms that affect coverage decisions.
CF

Cover Forge USA Editorial Team

Editorial Lead

This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.

Reviewed June 2026

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