Claims Handler Jobs in the UK: Career Guide, Salary, Skills & Opportunities

Claims handler jobs are among the most in-demand roles in the UK insurance industry. With rising volumes of motor, property, health, and commercial insurance claims, insurers and third-party administrators are actively hiring skilled claims handlers across the UK. These roles offer excellent job stability, flexible working options, and clear career progression.

Whether you are starting your career or looking to move into the insurance sector, claims handler jobs provide a strong entry point with long-term growth potential.

What Is a Claims Handler?

A claims handler is responsible for managing insurance claims from start to finish. This includes receiving claims, reviewing policy coverage, communicating with customers, assessing documentation, and ensuring claims are settled fairly and efficiently. Claims handlers act as the key point of contact between policyholders, insurers, and third parties.

Claims handler jobs exist across multiple insurance sectors, including motor, home, travel, health, and commercial insurance.

Types of Claims Handler Jobs

Claims handler jobs in the UK vary based on specialisation and experience level.

1. Motor Claims Handler

Manages vehicle insurance claims, including accident reports, liability checks, and repair approvals.

2. Property Claims Handler

Handles home and commercial property claims involving fire, flood, storm, or subsidence damage.

3. Commercial Claims Handler

Deals with complex business insurance claims such as liability, business interruption, and professional indemnity.

4. Desk-Based Claims Handler

Processes claims remotely using digital systems, documentation, and customer communication.

5. Senior Claims Handler

Handles high-value or complex claims and supports junior staff.

Skills Required for Claims Handler Jobs

UK employers seek a mix of technical and customer-focused skills when recruiting for claims handler jobs.

Key skills include:

• Strong communication and customer service skills

• Attention to detail and accuracy

• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities

• Time management and organisational skills

• Ability to work under pressure

• Basic understanding of insurance policies and regulations

Proficiency in claims management software and digital tools is increasingly important in modern claims roles.

Qualifications and Entry Requirements

Claims handler jobs are accessible to candidates from a wide range of educational backgrounds. While a degree is not always required, qualifications can improve employability and progression.

Common entry routes include:

• School leaver or graduate training schemes

• Apprenticeships in insurance and financial services

• On-the-job training provided by employers

• Professional qualifications from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII)

Popular certifications include Cert CII and Dip CII, which are widely recognised across the UK insurance market.

Claims Handler Salary in the UK

Salaries for claims handler jobs depend on experience, role type, and location.

• Entry-Level Claims Handler: £22,000 – £27,000 per year

• Experienced Claims Handler: £28,000 – £40,000 per year

• Senior Claims Handler: £45,000 – £60,000+ per year

Additional benefits often include bonuses, pension schemes, private healthcare, hybrid working, and career development support.

Career Progression for Claims Handlers

Claims handler jobs offer clear career pathways within the insurance sector. With experience and professional qualifications, claims handlers can progress into:

• Senior or specialist claims roles

• Claims examiner or loss adjuster positions

• Claims team leader or manager roles

• Underwriting or risk management

• Insurance compliance or consultancy roles

The skills gained as a claims handler are highly transferable, making it easier to move across insurance and financial services roles.

Where to Find Claims Handler Jobs in the UK

Claims handler jobs are widely advertised across the UK through multiple channels:

• Leading job boards such as Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs

• Insurance-specific recruitment agencies

• LinkedIn and professional networking platforms

• Insurance company career websites

• Graduate and apprenticeship job portals

Using targeted keywords such as claims handler jobs UK, insurance claims handler, and claims handling careers can improve visibility in Google search results.

Why Choose Claims Handler Jobs?

Claims handler jobs provide long-term job security, flexible working options, and continuous professional development. These roles are ideal for individuals who enjoy helping people, solving problems, and working in a structured yet dynamic environment. With increasing digitalisation in insurance, claims handling continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for skilled professionals.

Final Thoughts

Claims handler jobs in the UK offer a stable and rewarding career with strong earning potential and clear progression routes. As insurers continue to invest in customer service and efficient claims management, demand for qualified claims handlers remains strong. By developing the right skills, gaining professional qualifications, and staying informed about industry trends, you can build a successful career in claims handling.