Insurance Claims Handler CV: Guide, Examples, and Expert Tips
Also known as: claims adjuster, loss adjuster, claims examiner, insurance claims analyst, claims inspector, claims representative, insurance claims assessor, claims consultant, claims technician, claims service supervisor, claims officer, claims processor
An Insurance Claims Handler CV must demonstrate more than just administrative accuracy. It needs to showcase your ability to investigate complex incidents, negotiate fair settlements, and manage policyholder expectations during stressful times. Employers look for candidates who can balance empathy with rigorous data analysis to protect the firm's bottom line while fulfilling contractual obligations to the insured.
This guide provides a roadmap for building a high-impact insurance claims handler CV. We will cover how to quantify your successes in fraud detection, settlement efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Whether you are specialised in property, casualty, or motor, these strategies will help your application stand out in a competitive UK market.
What does an Insurance Claims Handler do?
Insurance claims handlers act as the primary link between the insurance provider and the policyholder once a loss occurs. Their main objective is to verify that a claim is valid under the terms of the policy and to determine the appropriate financial compensation. This requires a thorough understanding of policy wording, UK regulations, and the specific mechanics of the incident being claimed.
Beyond paperwork, these professionals are problem solvers. They coordinate with external experts such as loss adjusters, medical professionals, or forensic accountants to gather evidence. By analysing historical data and reporting, they calculate loss adjustments and ensure that every pound paid out is justified and documented properly.
Key Responsibilities:
- ➜ Initial intake and verification of incoming insurance claims for coverage and validity.
- ➜ Conducting detailed investigations into accidents or property damage to determine liability.
- ➜ Liaising with policyholders to guide them through the claims process and manage expectations.
- ➜ Calculating settlement amounts using industry standard estimation software and historical data.
- ➜ Identifying potential red flags for insurance fraud and escalating cases to special investigation units.
- ➜ Negotiating settlements with third parties and legal representatives.
How to Build a Strong Insurance Claims Handler CV
Your CV should emphasise your investigative precision and your ability to manage high-volume caseloads without sacrificing accuracy. Hiring managers prioritise candidates who can demonstrate a track record of reducing claim cycle times and identifying discrepancies that save the firm money.
01 CV Structure
The reverse-chronological format is standard for this role as it highlights your career progression. Start with your contact details, followed by a professional summary that highlights your years of experience and specialisation. Use the experience section to list achievements, not just tasks. Follow with a skills section divided into technical and soft skills, and finish with your education and relevant certifications like ACII or Cert CII.
02 Professional Summary
The summary should be a punchy paragraph of 3 to 4 sentences. Focus on your total years of experience, your specific area of expertise (e.g. Workers Comp or General Liability), and one or two major metrics that prove your value, such as your average settlement time or savings through fraud detection.
Example Summary
Senior Insurance Claims Handler with over 10 years of experience managing complex casualty and property claims. Proven track record of reducing average claim closure time by 15% whilst maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rating. Expert in Xactimate and Guidewire with a deep focus on liability determination and cost-containment strategies.
Example Achievement Bullets
- ➜ Reduced average claim life cycle from 25 days to 18 days by implementing a new streamlined documentation process.
- ➜ Recovered £150,000 in subrogation claims within a single fiscal year by identifying third-party negligence.
- ➜ Maintained a 99.5% accuracy rate across 400+ monthly claims, consistently exceeding the department goal of 95%.
- ➜ Mentored a team of 4 junior claims handlers, leading to a 20% improvement in team productivity scores.
Experience Guidelines
Focus on quantitative achievements. Instead of saying you 'handled claims', specify how many you handled per month and how that frequency compared to branch averages. Detail your involvement in high-value settlements and your proficiency in litigation management.
Education Guidelines
List your highest degree first. While a degree in business or finance is common, also include any specialised training in law, construction, or automotive repair if you work in those specific claim niches.
Key Skills for Insurance Claims Professionals
Technical Expertise
Interpersonal & Analytical
Insurance Claims Handler CV Sample
This example showcases a senior-level professional with a strong background in casualty and property claims in the UK market. It highlights the use of industry tools and quantifiable metrics.
Notes for adapting this example:
Tailor the software mentions to match the specific programs mentioned in the job description. If you are applying for a field-based loss adjuster role, emphasise your willingness to travel and your on-site assessment experience.
Expert CV Tips for Claims Handlers
Mention your specific authority level (the pound amount you are authorised to settle without higher approval).
Highlight your knowledge of UK insurance laws and FCA regulations.
List any specialised experience with CAT (Catastrophe) claims if applicable.
Use keywords from the job description like 'adjudication', 'liability', and 'indemnity' to pass through ATS filters.
Mistakes to Avoid on a Claims Handler CV
Being too vague about your authority level and the value of claims you have handled.
Failing to mention specific insurance software like Guidewire, Xactimate, or internal CRM systems.
Neglecting to highlight 'soft skills' like negotiation or conflict resolution which are central to the role.
Providing a list of tasks (e.g. 'answered phones') instead of results (e.g. 'resolved 90% of enquiries on the first call').
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary for an Insurance Claims Handler in the UK?
The average salary for an Insurance Claims Handler in the UK typically ranges from £28,000 to £55,000 yearly, depending on the complexity of the claims and the professional's level of experience. Senior specialists or those with ACII qualifications may earn significantly more. (Source: Estimated market data)
Do I need specific qualifications to be a claims handler in the UK?
While not always strictly required for entry-level roles, most employers expect or support progress towards Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) qualifications, such as the Certificate or Diploma in Insurance. Adherence to FCA regulations is also a mandatory part of the role.
Which certifications look best on a UK claims handler CV?
The Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII) and the Diploma in Insurance (Dip CII) are highly regarded in the UK industry. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a deep understanding of the insurance landscape and regulatory frameworks.
Related Guides
Vitae.
Turn this guide into interviews
Generate role-ready bullets, tighten your summary, and match the spec without the cringe.
Build my CVLast updated: 12/21/2025