Rhode Island Insurance Adjuster Exam

What is the first step an adjuster should take when receiving a claim?

1. Check with the insurer

2. Claim assessment

3. Check/confirm coverage

4. Contact the insured

The correct answer is: Check/confirm coverage

The first step an adjuster should take when receiving a claim is to check and confirm coverage. This process is essential because it establishes whether the policyholder has the appropriate coverage for the loss being reported. By verifying coverage right away, the adjuster can determine if the claim is valid and falls within the scope of the insurance policy. This step helps prevent unnecessary delays and ensures that resources are focused on claims that are likely to be honored by the insurer. When coverage is confirmed, the adjuster can then proceed to assess the claim and contact the insured as necessary, but without that initial confirmation, the next steps could be misguided or irrelevant.