How do you become an adjustment clerk?

1 Skills and Education

To become an adjustment clerk, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some basic math and computer skills. You also need to have good communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills, as you will often deal with people who are unhappy or dissatisfied with their situations. Some employers may prefer candidates who have some college education or previous experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or customer service. You may also need to learn specific software or systems that are used by your employer or industry.

2 Tasks and Challenges

As an adjustment clerk, your main task is to review and process claims, invoices, and payments that involve adjustments, refunds, rebates, or corrections. You may work with customers, vendors, or employees who request or require changes to their accounts or transactions. Additionally, you could collaborate with other departments or agencies to verify information, resolve issues, or authorize actions. Challenges you may experience in this role include managing high volumes of paperwork and data entry, dealing with complex or ambiguous situations, negotiating with difficult or angry customers or vendors, following strict policies and procedures, and meeting deadlines and quality standards.

3 Salary and Benefits

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for adjustment clerks was $37,670 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,680, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $54,920. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, and experience of the adjustment clerk. Some of the industries that employ the most adjustment clerks are insurance carriers, health care and social assistance, and administrative and support services. The BLS also projects that the employment of adjustment clerks will decline by 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, due to automation and outsourcing of some tasks.

As an adjustment clerk, you may also receive some benefits from your employer, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, or bonuses. However, these benefits may depend on the size, type, and policies of your employer. You may also have some flexibility in your work schedule, as some adjustment clerks work part-time, remotely, or on shifts.

4 Career Advancement

If you want to advance your career as an adjustment clerk, you may need to acquire more education, training, or certification. For example, you may pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration, which can help you gain more knowledge and skills in managing financial transactions and records. You may also obtain a certification from a professional organization, such as the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) or the National Association of Claims Assistance Professionals (NACAP), which can demonstrate your competence and credibility in your field. Additionally, you may seek opportunities to take on more responsibilities, leadership roles, or specialized tasks, which can increase your visibility and value in your organization.

5 Tips and Advice

To succeed as an adjustment clerk, it is important to stay organized and detail-oriented, as you will need to manage a large amount of information and documents. Additionally, you should keep up with the latest trends and regulations in your industry, as they may influence your work and procedures. Furthermore, you should communicate clearly and politely with customers, vendors, and colleagues to build trust and rapport. It is also beneficial to be flexible and adaptable in your work environment, as you may face changes and challenges. Lastly, seek feedback and improvement from supervisors and peers; this way, you can learn new skills and techniques.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?