Understanding adjuster roles
Public Adjuster vs. Insurance Company Adjuster
Who adjusters work for, how they are paid and questions to ask.
Editorial status: draft — awaiting expert review. General information only.
Company adjusters
Staff or independent adjusters assigned by the insurer evaluate the claim on the insurer's behalf. You don't pay them directly.
Public adjusters
Public adjusters are hired by policyholders to help prepare and present a claim. Most states require them to be licensed, and many regulate their contracts and fees. They are typically paid a percentage of the claim settlement.
Questions to ask a public adjuster
- Are you licensed in my state? What is your license number?
- What is your fee and how is it calculated?
- Can I cancel the contract, and within what period?
- Who will actually handle my claim?
Verify licenses
Your state insurance department can usually confirm whether a public adjuster is licensed.
Related guides
Official resources
This guide is general educational information, not insurance, legal or financial advice. Your policy, insurer and state rules determine what applies to your situation.