The Independent Adjuster Podcast (IA Path)

Tom Vogel certified with IA Path in June 2020, right in the middle of Covid, when everyone else was shutting down. Five years later he's still in the field, still working six firms, and still answering direct messages from community members with questions. He joined our Monday night office hours to share what five years of building an independent appraiser business actually looks like. The boundaries that protect your sanity. The time blocking that keeps you from working until 2am, even when ...

Wondering how to land that dream work-from-home auto adjusting position? This episode unveils the pathways to remote work in the independent adjusting world that many aspiring adjusters don't fully understand. I break down the crucial distinction between desk deployments (working at a call center or office) and genuine remote work (from your home or location of choice). For auto total loss adjusters, the typical journey begins with proving yourself in a controlled environment for 2-3 weeks b...

The skies are rumbling and "nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars" are falling across the country – it's hail season! For independent adjusters, this means opportunity is literally raining down. Are you positioned to capitalize on these $500 per day catastrophic deployments?

Navigating the onboarding process can feel overwhelming. We discuss the essential steps and offer insights on how to position yourself for success in the independent adjusting field. • Overview of the onboarding process and its purpose • Essential documents required for onboarding success • Insights into what to expect during onboarding interactions Launch your independent adjusting career by following our guidelines and strategies for success. Stay engaged with the ...

Tailoring your resume is key to landing your job, especially in the independent adjusting field. A well-crafted resume can act as a high-impact advertisement for your skills and qualifications, grabbing attention in mere seconds. • A resume isn't just a job history, but a marketing tool to sell yourself • Customization is essential for each job application, using keywords from postings • Keep your resume to one page, focusing on relevant skills and experiences If you...

Starting a business as an independent adjuster involves practical steps that lead to empowerment and independence. From obtaining your EIN to getting the right insurance, each action taken brings you closer to establishing a professional identity. • Emphasis on transforming dreams into action • Steps to obtain EIN for business identity • Importance of creating your company structure • Necessity of opening a dedicated business bank account • Role of insurance in ...

The episode explores the essential licensing requirements for independent adjusters, detailing the steps needed to obtain the necessary credentials based on various scenarios in the field. It emphasizes the importance of understanding state regulations and provides actionable guidance for aspiring adjusters to navigate their careers effectively. • Key licensing considerations for independent adjusters • Differences between auto damage appraisers and adjusters • State-specific lic...

Independent adjusting can feel like a lottery, with many new professionals struggling to navigate the traditional path dominated by high-stakes competition and financial barriers. Exploring alternatives can provide a clearer roadmap to success that enables direct engagement and career satisfaction. • The traditional IA path is fraught with challenges • Competition is fierce, with thousands of licensed adjusters • Waiting for catastrophic events leads to uncertainty • Signif...

We explore the essential elements that define a career as an independent adjuster, discussing the roles, responsibilities, and skills required. You'll gain insight into the necessary steps to navigate this career path and understand key concepts that can lead to success. • Examination of what defines an independent adjuster • Overview of the core activities in adjusting claims • Importance of effective communication in the role • Licensing requirements explained...

New adjusters often find themselves wondering how to translate their licenses into actual job opportunities. This episode highlights the importance of proving competency through certifications and real-world experience to successfully secure work in the independent adjusting field. • Understanding the challenges faced by new adjusters • The misconception that a license guarantees employment • The nature of IA firms as dispatching companies • The need for certifications to demonstrate c...

This episode explores the considerations independent adjusters must ponder when contemplating raising their rates. Listeners learn how market demand and workload should influence pricing decisions rather than arbitrary increases. • Understanding the payment structures for independent adjusters • Key indicators suggesting a rate increase is appropriate • Recognizing the importance of demand in setting prices • Strategies for attracting more work without increasing rates&nbsp...

The episode delves into the complexities of starting a career in insurance adjusting amidst the significant wildfire season in California. We discuss the barriers for newcomers, including licensing challenges, competition with veteran adjusters, and alternative paths to gain experience within the industry. • Overview of current wildfire events and implications for new adjusters • Licensing difficulties in California for aspiring adjusters • The impact of vehicle mobility on wildf...