Strategic licensing is the key to landing auto desk deployments, with firms prioritizing adjusters who hold multiple state licenses for maximum claim-handling flexibility. While most experienced desk adjusters eventually acquire 20+ licenses, you can gain an advantage by strategically selecting which licenses to obtain first.

• Firms filter deployment candidates by looking for adjusters with licenses in all affected states
• Weather patterns should guide your licensing strategy (Midwest states for hail season, Gulf states for hurricane season)
• Hard-to-obtain licenses like South Carolina appraiser's or New York adjuster license make you more valuable
• States requiring special appraiser's licenses create barriers that can help you make the "short list"
• Having licenses in frequently hit states increases your chances of being selected for deployments
• Knowledge and competence remain essential—licenses alone won't help if you can't do the job

Keep walking your path and claiming your life!

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 before earning the trust to take your laptop home. The financial upside is significant - maintaining that $400/day rate while eliminating all travel expenses makes these positions incredibly valuable.

While competition exists for these roles, they're more accessible than most realize. Success hinges on two key factors: appropriate licensing in states with active claims and demonstrating competence that instills confidence in your ability to work independently. I also explore the alternative path through auto damage remote work, where adjusters write estimates from photos submitted from the field. This option typically pays per claim ($10-$20 each) rather than daily rates, creating different opportunities and challenges.

The choice between these paths involves important tradeoffs. Auto total loss remote work provides steady, predictable income but requires strict adherence to schedules with little flexibility during working hours. Auto damage remote opportunities offer more freedom but potentially inconsistent claim volume. Whether you're seeking a primary income source or supplemental earnings alongside field adjusting, understanding these distinctions will help you navigate toward the remote opportunity that best fits your goals and lifestyle. Ready to explore these options further? Contact us at 844-4-IAPATH or check out our certifications at iapath.com to build the experience requirements necessary for these positions.

Every adjuster dreams of landing those long-term deployments that offer stability and consistent income. The secret? Auto desk deployments – but not just any desk role will do.

In this eye-opening episode, I share insights from my experience during Hurricane Sandy, where I witnessed firsthand the crucial difference between short-term field deployments and months-long desk opportunities. Drawing from both personal experience and knowledge gained from family members who became supervisors in the industry, I reveal why total loss adjusting positions are the golden ticket to sustained deployment work. While field auto adjusters typically wrap up their catastrophe work in 1-3 weeks, total loss adjusters often remain deployed for months, earning $400-500 daily.

The industry faces a significant training gap in preparing adjusters for these specialized roles. Most firms offer woefully inadequate preparation – some as brief as five to seven minutes – which explains why many adjusters get sent home early from what could have been long-term assignments. I walk through exactly what total loss adjusters do: negotiating settlements with vehicle owners, determining accurate valuations, managing salvage, verifying liens, and processing titles. These responsibilities require specific knowledge that goes well beyond basic adjuster training.

Ready to position yourself for these coveted long-term deployments? I share exactly what you need to do – from acquiring the right licenses to seeking specialized training that will help you succeed where others fail. Whether you're looking to diversify your adjuster career or find more stability in this volatile industry, this episode gives you the roadmap to scoring those elusive, lucrative auto desk deployments that keep you working when others are sent home.

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?

The journey into independent adjusting can be overwhelming, but this episode empowers aspiring adjusters to take charge. We guide you through essential tips and strategies to transform knowledge into action, helping you navigate the complexities ahead.

• Introduction to independent adjusting and its significance 
• Key strategies for building a strong professional network 
• Importance of taking action and learning from experiences 

If you have more questions or would like custom advice for your situation, email Chris or call 844-4-IAPATH. 

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 firms that onboard you, as consistent follow-up can make all the difference! 

Connecting effectively through networking is essential for success as an independent adjuster. Visibility and relationship-building are important in transitioning from a new professional to a respected member of the industry.

• Understanding the importance of networking for new adjusters 
• Building a polished online presence with platforms like LinkedIn 
• Creating and nurturing genuine relationships in the industry 

Start building connections today and watch as opportunities begin to find you. 

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're looking to refine your resume, download the free template from the IA Starter Kit to get started!

Certification isn’t just a rite of passage; it’s a pivotal step that bridges the gap between knowing and doing in the independent adjusting world. This episode explores the importance of certifications like Auto Damage and CCC1, showcasing how they empower adjusters and validate their skills, illustrated by Linda Thompson’s inspiring transition into the industry. 

• Importance of certifications as professional validation 
• Overview of Auto Damage certification's practical skills 
• Significance of mastering CCC1 software 
• Linda Thompson's journey from USPS to adjusting 
• Boosting confidence and capability through certifications 
• Encouragement to pursue recognized certifications with IA Path

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 protecting your business

This episode reveals that merely being licensed as an independent adjuster is not enough to secure work. It emphasizes the importance of practical skills, mentoring, certifications, and the limitations of relying on IA firm training.

• Importance of foundational skills and training 
• IA firms as customers, not educators 
• Transforming training experiences into career opportunities 
• The value of finding a mentor in the field 
• Certification programs that enhance employability 
• Gaining practical experience through body shop work 
• The advantages and risks of online vs. in-person training 
• Hidden costs of low-cost training options 
• Overview of IAPATH’s comprehensive training program

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 licensing requirements and resources 
• Importance of practical training before licensing exams 
• Benefits and opportunities of catastrophic claims work 
• Strategies for obtaining non-resident adjuster licenses 
• Steps to enhance your competitive edge in the industry

The episode explores the IA Advantage & the EXP Free Roadmap, a mindset shift that empowers independent adjusters to focus on daily auto claims for career success. By emphasizing local competition, affordability, and flexibility, listeners learn how to take control of their path and thrive in the industry.

• Introduction to the IA Advantage and its significance 
• Advantages of focusing on daily auto claims over catastrophic ones 
• Local competition improves odds for independent adjusters 
• Consistent daily claims provide continuous opportunities for work 
• Lower startup costs and financial barriers for daily auto adjusting 
• Flexibility allows for part-time work and career transitions 
• Success story of an adjuster who thrived using the IA Advantage 
• Overview of the two-phase, seven-step EXP free roadmap 
• Encouragement to take control and start building an independent adjusting career

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 
• Significant upfront costs hinder entry into the field 
• Quitting stable jobs can create financial strain 
• The high-pressure environment can lead to reputational risk 
• A restructured roadmap can enhance individual success

This episode explores the various paths within the insurance adjusting industry, detailing the roles of company adjusters, public adjusters, and independent adjusters. We dive into how adjusters are compensated, the types of claims they handle, and how to identify which path suits you best in your career. 

• Overview of types of adjusters: company, public, and independent 
• In-depth description of different claims adjusters manage 
• Distinction between adjusters and appraisers 
• Defining catastrophic versus daily claims 
• Breakdown of payment structures for adjusters

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 in detail 
• Insight into gaining practical experience efficiently 
• Tools for building skills and confidence in the field

Discover how to break into the independent adjusting industry without prior experience through our innovative EXP-Free Roadmap. This episode is the kick off to the newly revised and completely re-written Independent Adjuster's Playbook.

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 competency
• Alternative paths to gain relevant experience
• Strategies to effectively prove skills to IA firms
• Recommended resources for securing work in adjusting

This episode reveals the fundamental factors that determine the income potential and workload for Independent Adjusters, focusing on the significance of market conditions and effective marketing strategies. 

The discussion includes insights on market expansion, realistic income expectations, and the importance of persistence in outreach efforts, ultimately empowering listeners to take control of their careers. 

• Market conditions significantly influence income potential 
• Expanding geographical areas can lead to more opportunities 
• Effective marketing builds reputation and generates connections 
• Realistic earning expectations vary widely 
• Past experiences, like sales, enhance marketing abilities 
• Persistence is crucial for engaging potential clients 
• Independent Adjusters should operate as business owners 
• Strategic actions can unlock greater success in the industry

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 
• The advantages of diversifying service offerings for better income 
• Emphasizing a business owner mindset in pricing decisions

The episode explains the significance of attending the National Association of Catastrophic Adjusters Conference, emphasizing the potential networking and educational benefits. Personal experiences and details about the IAPath team’s involvement highlight the value of participation while addressing the costs associated with the event.

• Introduction to the NACA Conference and its purpose 
• Overview of membership fees and conference costs 
• Personal anecdotes illustrating benefits of attending 
• Details about IAPath’s presence and new book launch 
• Educational presentations planned for the conference 
• The importance of building professional relationships at NACA

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 wildfire claims 
• Competition from veteran adjusters for wildfire-related claims 
• Seasonal challenges affecting job availability in winter months 
• Opportunities for new adjusters through programs like IA Path 
• Encouragement for newcomers to pursue experience in daily claims

This episode reveals the misconceptions surrounding the experience requirement in independent adjusting, challenging the notion that prior experience is essential to enter the field. It discusses various paths for newcomers, emphasizing mentorship, training, and resilience as critical components to successfully breaking into the industry. 

• Addressing the myth of mandatory experience 
• Personal story of training a friend for adjusting 
• Frustrations faced when new entrants are overlooked 
• Opportunities during catastrophic events for beginners 
• Importance of mentorship and training programs 
• IAPath's model for helping newcomers succeed 
• Alternative certification options for aspiring adjusters 
• The critical role of networking and connections 
• Encouragement for listeners to pursue their paths in adjusting

This episode marks a fresh start for the Independent Adjuster Podcast, where we introduce exciting new directions for IA PATH and the concept of the Pathfinder. Through an innovative EXP-free career path model, we empower independent adjusters to break free from traditional experience requirements and take control of their careers. 

• Celebration of the podcast's return after a hiatus 
• Shift in IA PATH’s mission to support aspiring independent adjusters 
• Introduction of the EXP-free career path model with four foundational pillars 
• Unifying term “Pathfinder” to define graduates and members 
• Presentation of the “Pathfinder Manifesto” outlining core beliefs 
• Call for engagement and suggestions for future episode topics

In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Matt Epert, CEO of Crash Champions, the third-largest body shop chain in the nation, to uncover the future of collision repair and what it means for independent adjusters and estimators. Matt breaks down how he grew from a single shop to a 600-location powerhouse, and what that explosive growth means for YOU.

If you’re an independent adjuster or a collision estimator, this episode is packed with industry insights you can’t afford to miss. Matt dives into:

• The critical role of collision estimators and why they’re the backbone of the industry.
• How AI and technology are reshaping the future of estimating, and why your human skills will always be in demand.
• Why knowing both CCC One and Mitchell can give you a serious edge in your career.
• How to break into the industry with zero experience and make a name for yourself in a field desperate for skilled professionals.

Matt also shares behind-the-scenes details of major acquisitions, like the Service King deal, and how they’re creating even more opportunities for independent adjusters and collision estimators nationwide.

Whether you’re looking to expand your skills, break into the industry, or prepare for the AI-driven future of collision repair, Matt’s insights offer a roadmap to success. This is your chance to hear directly from one of the top leaders in collision repair about how to thrive in today’s market.