Career roadmap
How to Become an Insurance Claims Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an insurance claims clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an insurance claims clerk: (1) finish high school, (2) get hired, (3) learn insurance basics, (4) earn the AINS, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an insurance claims clerk
Finish high school
Or GED.
Get hired
Claims clerk.
Learn insurance basics
Training.
Earn the AINS
Credential.
Advance
Adjuster or underwriting assistant.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- AINS: Associate in General Insurance.
- INS courses: The Institutes.
- Medical terminology course: For health claims.
- State adjuster license: Later, for adjusters.
Skills to build now
Start with claims processing, insurance terminology, and coverage verification, and practice accuracy and empathy. Learning the insurance claims clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Claims Clerk: Entry.
- Claims Specialist: Complex claims.
- Claims Adjuster: Investigate.
- Claims Supervisor: Lead teams.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Insurance Claims Clerk training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an insurance claims clerk?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an insurance claims clerk?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for insurance claims clerks?
Common credentials include AINS, INS courses, Medical terminology course, and State adjuster license. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-9041 (Insurance claims and policy processing clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Insurance claims and policy processing clerks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.