Independent adjuster earnings calculator
Independent and catastrophe adjusters are paid per claim, not per hour. Edit the example fee schedule to match your firm's, choose a typical claim size, and see gross fees, your share after the firm's split, expenses and net income for a deployment.
How fee schedules work
A fee schedule lists what the adjusting firm bills the insurer for each claim based on the gross amount of the loss before the deductible. Larger claims pay more because they take longer: more measurements, more photos, more line items in the estimate and more conversations with the policyholder. Most schedules also pay flat fees for things like closed-without-payment files, supplements, reinspections and mileage.
The split
The firm keeps part of the fee for finding the work, managing the carrier relationship and reviewing your files. The rest goes to you. Experienced adjusters with clean files and good carrier feedback can negotiate better splits and get the larger, more complex claims.
Expenses add up
Independent adjusters are usually 1099 contractors who pay their own travel, lodging, meals, insurance, estimating software, ladders, roof harnesses and measuring tools. Model expenses honestly: a strong week of closed claims can still be a loss if you spend a week waiting for assignments.
Frequently asked questions
How are independent adjusters paid?
Most independent adjusters are paid per claim by the adjusting firm that hires them, using a fee schedule that pays more as the gross claim amount rises. The adjuster usually receives a percentage of the fee (the split) and covers their own travel, lodging and equipment. Some firms pay a daily rate instead, especially for desk or large-loss work.
How many claims does a catastrophe adjuster close per week?
It varies widely with the storm, the line of business and experience. Simple roof claims after a hailstorm can be closed far faster than complex water or wind claims with interior damage. New adjusters should plan conservatively until they learn the estimating software and the firm's file requirements.
Why does this calculator use an example fee schedule?
Every adjusting firm sets its own schedule and split, and they change by carrier and event. The numbers here are placeholders so you can see how the math works. Replace them with the schedule your firm gives you.
Do I need a license to work catastrophe claims?
Usually yes. Most firms deploy adjusters who already hold licenses in the affected states, though many states also allow emergency licenses after a declared disaster. See the reciprocity map and your state's licensing guide.