How to Become an Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk in 2026
Median salary: $48,450 · -3.7% projected decline (2024–2034)
What does an Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk do?
Process new insurance policies, modifications to existing policies, and claims forms. Obtain information from policyholders to verify the accuracy and completeness of information on claims forms, applications and related documents, and company records. Update existing policies and company records to reflect changes requested by policyholders and insurance company representatives.
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks is $48,450. The bottom 10% earn around $36,900 while the top 10% earn over $73,100.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $36,900 |
| Early career (P25) | $41,600 |
| Median | $48,450 |
| Experienced (P75) | $59,500 |
| Top earners (P90) | $73,100 |
Highest-paying metros
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Washingtontop | $59,190 |
| New Jersey | $58,010 |
| New Hampshire | $57,830 |
| New York | $57,620 |
| District of Columbia | $57,510 |
| Connecticut | $56,950 |
| Massachusetts | $56,400 |
| Colorado | $55,030 |
| California | $54,120 |
| Minnesota | $53,570 |
| Maryland | $53,180 |
| Maine | $52,010 |
| Rhode Island | $50,740 |
| Delaware | $50,490 |
| Vermont | $49,960 |
| Montana | $49,920 |
| Wisconsin | $49,330 |
| Arizona | $49,270 |
| Oregon | $49,230 |
| Texas | $49,090 |
| Oklahoma | $48,890 |
| North Dakota | $48,720 |
| Hawaii | $48,410 |
| Ohio | $47,910 |
| Kentucky | $47,560 |
| Nebraska | $47,510 |
| Florida | $47,080 |
| Missouri | $46,990 |
| Illinois | $46,960 |
| Kansas | $46,940 |
| Idaho | $46,890 |
| Pennsylvania | $46,800 |
| Iowa | $46,750 |
| Michigan | $46,750 |
| Virginia | $46,710 |
| North Carolina | $46,570 |
| Indiana | $46,450 |
| Tennessee | $46,140 |
| Georgia | $46,060 |
| Nevada | $44,810 |
| South Dakota | $43,680 |
| Louisiana | $43,650 |
| South Carolina | $43,620 |
| Utah | $43,480 |
| Wyoming | $41,460 |
| Arkansas | $40,810 |
| Mississippi | $39,590 |
| New Mexico | $38,910 |
| West Virginia | $38,890 |
| Alabama | $37,850 |
| Alaska | $36,120 |
How to earn more as an Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk
The salary range for Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks spans $36,200 — from $36,900 at entry level to $73,100 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Manchester-Nashua, NH at $63,710 — $15,260 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Moderate-term on-the-job training
Starting from high school
- Complete on-the-job training (moderate-term on-the-job training)
- Earn industry-recognized certifications (Microsoft Office Specialist, Certified Administrative Professional)
- Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
- Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
- Advance to journeyman level or specialized role
Most entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Look for apprenticeship programs through unions, trade associations, or the Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program. Community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in 6–12 months. OSHA safety certifications are widely valued and often required.
Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.
Switching from another career
- Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
- Complete a short certification or orientation program (Microsoft Office Specialist, Certified Administrative Professional)
- Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
- Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
- Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience
Career changers are in demand across this field. Your existing professional skills — problem-solving, communication, time management, and work ethic — are valued by employers even if your technical skills are new. Many organizations offer orientation programs or short certification courses designed specifically for career changers. Contact industry associations, local unions, or community colleges for programs in your area.
Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.
Already working in another career?
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The Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk role faces above-average AI exposure. Some tasks are increasingly automatable, but the role is evolving rather than disappearing.
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Based on skill overlap analysis — these occupations share core competencies with Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk.
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SOC: 43-9041.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034