Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 229,070 insurance claims and policy processing clerks, and they earn a median of $48,450/year. The range runs from $37K to $73K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level insurance claims and policy processing clerks start around $37K. The gap between that and the median ($48K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $73K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $59K | 3,920 |
| New Jersey | $58K | 4,780 |
| New Hampshire | $58K | 1,310 |
| New York | $58K | 7,480 |
| District of Columbia | $58K | 140 |
| Connecticut | $57K | 2,290 |
| Massachusetts | $56K | 5,020 |
| California | $54K | 25,360 |
| Minnesota | $54K | 4,030 |
| Maryland | $53K | 1,520 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a insurance claims and policy processing clerks make?▼
The median insurance claims and policy processing clerks salary in the United States is $48,450 per year ($23/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,100.
What education do you need to become a insurance claims and policy processing clerks?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for insurance claims and policy processing clerks?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for insurance claims and policy processing clerks.
What are the highest paying states for insurance claims and policy processing clerks?▼
The highest paying states for insurance claims and policy processing clerks are Washington ($59,190), New Jersey ($58,010), New Hampshire ($57,830), New York ($57,620), District of Columbia ($57,510). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.