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Insurance Claims Handler Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The claims staff are empowered to manage their claims within given authority to provide fair and fast resolution of claims for our insured and broker partners. With strong growth across the US ...

Claims Manager, SDI

Chicago, IL · On-site

$139.30 - $219.30/hr

Advanced experience managing and supervising Subcontractor Default Insurance claims; proven ability to negotiate and settle large and complex files. * Demonstrated experience managing claims handlers ...

Position Summary Arch Insurance Group Inc., AIGI, has an opening with the Claims Division on the ... handler's care * Develop and implement timely and accurate resolution strategies to ensure ...

Position Summary Arch Insurance Group Inc., AIGI, has an opening with the Claims Division on the ... handler's care * Develop and implement timely and accurate resolution strategies to ensure ...

Company Argo Group Argo Group is an underwriter of specialty insurance products in the property and ... Hold TPAs and internal claim handlers accountable for timely investigation, supportable reserves ...

Position Summary Arch Insurance Group Inc., AIGI, has an opening with the Claims Division on the ... handler's care * Develop and implement timely and accurate resolution strategies to ensure ...

Claims Major Case Director

Naperville, IL · On-site +1

$92K - $130K/yr

IAT Insurance Group has an immediate need for a Major Case Unit Director that can report to one of ... Excellent negotiation skills which would be handled primarily by the file handler. * Ability to ...

... handler's care * Develop and implement strategy to resolve matters of liability and damages of a ... Analyze and direct risk transfer, additional insured issues, and contractual indemnity issues

... handler's care * Develop and implement strategy to resolve matters of liability and damages of a ... Analyze and direct risk transfer, additional insured issues, and contractual indemnity issues

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Showing results 1-20

Insurance Claims Handler information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$21

$44

How much do insurance claims handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for insurance claims handler in Illinois is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an insurance claims handler do?

An Insurance Claims Handler is responsible for assessing insurance claims made by policyholders and determining whether they are valid according to the terms of the policy. They investigate the circumstances of each claim, gather relevant information and evidence, and may liaise with clients, third parties, and professionals such as loss adjusters or legal experts. Their role involves calculating the amount to be paid out, ensuring claims are processed efficiently and accurately, and providing support and advice to customers throughout the process.

What are some common challenges faced by insurance claims handlers, and how can they be managed?

Insurance Claims Handlers often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, dealing with complex or disputed claims, and maintaining clear communication with policyholders who may be experiencing stressful situations. To manage these challenges, handlers typically rely on strong organizational skills, established processes, and support from experienced team members. Regular training and collaboration with colleagues in underwriting, legal, and customer service departments also help to resolve issues efficiently and ensure fair outcomes for all parties involved.

How much does an insurance claims handler make?

An insurance claims handler typically earns a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced handlers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Some roles also offer bonuses or performance-based incentives.

What is the difference between Insurance Claims Handler vs Insurance Adjuster?

AspectInsurance Claims HandlerInsurance Adjuster
CredentialsTypically requires insurance-related certifications or licensesOften requires similar licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, handling claims processingField-based or office, inspecting damages and assessing claims
Employer & Industry UsageInsurance companies, claims departmentsInsurance companies, independent adjusting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in claims processingAssessing damage, estimating claims

While both roles involve handling insurance claims, the Claims Handler primarily manages the administrative process within the company, whereas the Adjuster often inspects damages and assesses claims, sometimes in the field. Both require relevant insurance certifications and work within the insurance industry, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

Is it hard to become an insurance claims handler?

Becoming an insurance claims handler typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring candidates with customer service experience or relevant certifications. The role involves understanding insurance policies, assessing claims, and using claims management software, but it generally does not require extensive formal education or specialized training beyond on-the-job learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an insurance claims handler?

To thrive as an Insurance Claims Handler, you need a solid understanding of insurance policies, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills, usually supported by a relevant degree or experience in insurance or finance. Familiarity with claims management software, office productivity tools, and sometimes specific certifications such as CII (Chartered Insurance Institute) are often required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills help build trust and efficiently resolve claims. Mastering these skills ensures accurate claim assessment, fraud prevention, and a positive customer experience.
Infographic showing various Insurance Claims Handler job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,051 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Portfolio Claims Handler

Hiscox

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Type:

Contractor

Build a brilliant future with Hiscox

Join our dynamic and forward-thinking Claims team in a temporary contract capacity. You'll support an energetic and innovative group while applying your expertise to complex claims and collaborating with business partners across the organization.

The Temporary Contract Complex Claims Specialist-Professional Liability is an individual contributor engaged for a defined assignment to provide interim claims-handling support across multiple Professional Liability lines. The contractor will manage mid- to high-severity primary claims from inception through resolution, including Allied Healthcare Professional Liability, Architects & Engineers Professional Liability, and Miscellaneous Professional Liability matters involving professionals such as insurance agents, property managers, tax preparers, consultants, and other service providers. The assignment includes all aspects of the claims and litigation process and requires coordination with external and internal business partners, including outside experts, legal counsel, underwriting, and other stakeholders. The anticipated assignment duration, work schedule, and extension potential will be confirmed during the engagement process.

The Contract Assignment:

  • Adjusts and resolves complex, mid- to high-severity Professional Liability claims, including Allied Healthcare, Architects & Engineers, and Miscellaneous Professional Liability matters in all phases of litigation

  • With minimal supervision, drafts complex coverage letters, including reservation of rights and denial letters

  • Reviews and provides analysis of claim documentation and legal filings

  • Drives litigation best practices to lead defense strategy on litigated files

  • Shares subject-matter expertise and provides knowledge support to team members as needed during the assignment

  • Uses superior knowledge and experience to affect positive claim outcome via investigation, negotiation and utilization of alternative dispute resolutions

  • Identifies and communicates emerging exposures, claim trends, and cross-line issues affecting Professional Liability portfolios

  • Identifies suspected fraudulent claims and tracks with special investigations unit

  • Accurately documents claim files with all relevant claim documentation, correspondence and notes in compliance with company policies and applicable regulatory authorities

The Team:

The US Claims team at Hiscox is a growing group of professionals working together to provide superior customer service and claims handling expertise. The claims staff are empowered to manage their claims within given authority to provide fair and fast resolution of claims for our insured and broker partners. With strong growth across the US business, the Claims team is focused on delivering profitability while reinforcing Hiscox's strong brand built on a long history of outstanding claims handling.

Requirements:

  • 5+ years of Professional Liability and/or Specialty or Financial Lines claims-handling experience, preferably including one or more of the following: Allied Healthcare, Architects & Engineers, or Miscellaneous Professional Liability

  • A JD from an ABA accredited law school may be considered as a supplement to claims handling experience

  • Proven ability to positively affect complex claims outcomes through investigation, negotiation and effectively leading litigation

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment

  • Advanced knowledge of Professional Liability coverage principles, with the ability to apply coverage analysis across Allied Healthcare, Architects & Engineers, and Miscellaneous Professional Liability claims

  • Advanced knowledge of litigation process and negotiation skills

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Advanced analytical skills

  • B.A./B.S Degree required, JD optimal

  • Must hold, or be able to obtain before handling applicable claims, all adjuster licenses required for the jurisdictions covered by the assignment

Contract Engagement Details:

  • Temporary contract assignment for a defined period, with anticipated duration and start date to be confirmed

  • Compensation will be provided at an agreed hourly or contract rate based on experience, qualifications, assignment scope, and work location

  • Work schedule, weekly hours, reporting relationship, and any extension potential will be confirmed during the engagement process

  • This contract assignment is not eligible for Hiscox employee salary, bonus, paid time off, retirement, or employee benefit programs unless expressly stated in the applicable engagement agreement

  • Any benefits available through a staffing agency or other employer of record are governed solely by that organization's terms

Hiscox Values:

At Hiscox our spirit is in Challenging Convention and everything we do is guided by our Values.

  • Courage: Dare to take a risk

  • Ownership: Passionate, commercial and accountable

  • Integrity: Do the right thing, however hard

  • Connected: Together, build something better

  • Human: Clear, fair and inclusive

Hourly Rate: $75-$90/hour

The actual rate for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment.

About Hiscox:

As an international specialist insurer, we are far removed from the world of mass market insurance products. Instead, we are selective and focus on our key areas of expertise and strength - all of which is underpinned by a culture that encourages us to challenge convention and always look for a better way of doing things.

We insure the unique and the interesting. And we search for the same when it comes to talented people. Hiscox is full of smart, reliable human beings that look out for customers and each other. We believe in doing the right thing, making good and rebuilding when things go wrong. Everyone is encouraged to think creatively, challenge the status quo and look for solutions.

Scratch beneath the surface and you will find a business that is solid, but slightly contrary. We like to do things differently and constantly seek to evolve. We might have been around for a long time (our roots go back to 1901), but we are young in many ways, ambitious and going places.

Some people might say insurance is dull, but life at Hiscox is anything but. If that sounds good to you, get in touch.

About Hiscox USA:

Hiscox USA was established in 2006 to focus on the needs underserved and specialty commercial clients via both the regional broker and direct distribution channels and is today the fastest-growing business unit within the Hiscox Group.

Today, Hiscox USA has a talent force of about 400 employees mostly operating out of 6 major cities - New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Hiscox USA offers a broad portfolio of commercial products, including technology, cyber & data risk, multiple professional liability lines, media, entertainment, management liability, crime, kidnap & ransom, commercial property and terrorism.

You can follow Hiscox on LinkedIn, Glassdoor and Instagram (@HiscoxInsurance)

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