GENERAL QUESTIONS

What type of claims do Alacrity Adjusters handle? 

We handle claims for many lines of business such as Auto, Residential, Liability, Flood and Commercial. We staff adjusters in the field and at the desk and have a dedicated file review team. Adjusters are encouraged to call our Resource Management Team at 888-887-8070 to discuss the different areas of business we cover at Alacrity. You may also visit our website to learn more. 

Does Alacrity hire Customer Service Representatives? 

Yes! We recruit and hire Customer Service Representative for several of our carriers. These are non-adjusting/non-licensing positions which may be a steppingstone into the adjusting industry. As of 2024, our base for CSR work is in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Does Alacrity do any work besides adjusting? 

The Alacrity Enterprise is growing rapidly and now consists of several branches including our Managed Repair Network of contractors, Temporary Housing Solutions, Subrogation, Contents, and Call Center Solutions.

Does Alacrity hire remote Adjusters? 

Yes, we do! While much of our business still requires a boots-on-the-ground response, many carriers have moved toward remote work for desk or review assignments. Many assignments may also require an in-person training period before moving to a fully remote work environment.

Does Alacrity ever need Spanish speaking Adjusters or any other foreign languages?  

Yes, if you are fluent in Spanish or another foreign language, please contact our Resource Management Team to discuss and get your profile updated. 

• Some carriers require the adjuster to pass a Spanish language test before being deployed to a bi-lingual position. Alacrity can facilitate this testing for eligible adjusters.

When can an Adjuster expect to receive claims or deployment offers?   

This can vary greatly depending on the adjuster’s experience, licensing, assignment preferences, location/willingness to travel, and of course, the weather.  

What carriers does Alacrity work with?   

Last year we received claims from over 150 carriers. Please feel free to contact our Resource Management Department to discuss the different carriers we are currently working with.

Who is eligible to handle commercial claims? Can new Adjusters handle them?    

Due to the complexity of commercial claims handling, we heavily vet our commercial candidates. There may be instances where newer adjusters are engaged as subordinates, but they must have a year or two of experience to best meet the client’s requirements and timeframes.  

Can Adjusters work in teams? Do all team members need to be licensed?   

Alacrity must be notified so that we can make sure we are in compliance as this varies with each carrier. We typically complete background checks and drug screens on both adjusters if working as part of a team.  

•  If adjusters wish to deploy and work claims as a team, both members of the team must have their own valid license.  
• We do not deploy teams on auto assignments.   
• We often deploy two story/steep teams (Lead & Helper) if requested on property assignments, and this is typically an hourly assignment. 

Can Adjusters subcontract their claims to other adjusters?   

No.

Can Adjusters recommend contractors or mitigation/restoration companies?   

No. Adjusters suspected of this behavior will be investigated and on hold until the investigation is complete. Depending on the findings, an adjuster may be ineligible for future work.  

• If the client has a preferred network list of contractors and/or mitigation companies, adjusters should provide that to the insureds according to client guidelines.

Who assigns claims for Alacrity? Does each Adjuster have a specific Manager?   

Daily claims are assigned via our dispatch team and are based on the adjuster's profile details. The accuracy of each adjuster profile is critical for our CMS to operate effectively. CAT claims are usually assigned by the client manager, depending on the event.  

• Once deployed, adjusters will receive communication from the client manager and team lead.
• For some carriers, claims may be assigned directly by the carrier.

Can Adjusters deploy for multiple IA firms during a CAT event?   

While independent claims adjusters are ordinarily able to work for multiple carriers and IA firms, we ask that if adjusters are committed to Alacrity for a CAT event that they only handle claims with us. Adjusters will typically only handle one client per CAT deployment.

Can Adjusters work multiple carriers on a CAT for the same firm? What about for daily?   

If deployed with Alacrity, we will set expectations up front. We do our best to ensure that adjusters only handle one client per CAT deployment for quality assurance purposes.

• Adjusters may work several clients at a time when handling daily claims. We do ask for transparency when accepting daily assignments and adjusters must agree to meet our timelines. 

Are Adjusters advised to be on multiple IA rosters?   

Adjusters may receive training and deployment opportunities from all the firms and are encouraged to take advantage of courses available online, in-person and at conferences. We do prefer that adjusters are committed to Alacrity.  

How quickly can an Adjuster work for Alacrity after leaving a staff position?  

If an adjuster was employed by current client, we wait 90 days and typically check with the client directly to ensure eligibility to handle their claims. We work to engage the adjuster for other clients if the client does not approve of them working their claims.   

How often do Alacrity Adjusters get paid? When is the cut off?  

Payroll is processed every two weeks (biweekly), and the cutoff is generally seven days prior to pay day.

Are expenses reimbursable?  

As a general rule, expenses are not reimbursed. Adjusters are responsible for their own expenses. 
 

LICENSING

Does Alacrity have resources to help me with my licenses?

Alacrity has a dedicated Compliance and Licensing team available at licensing@alacritysolutions.com, compliance@alacritysolutions.com, or by calling 800-968-4456. While we do not offer pre-licensing classes, our team can assist you with online applications and/or point you in the right direction.

Do Adjusters need state licenses and how do they obtain them?  

While there are some states which do not require a state license, most do. An adjuster should get their home state license in a local testing facility before obtaining additional state licensing. We also recommend a designated "home" state if the adjuster does not reside in a state which requires a license. Texas DHS license is widely accepted and is the recommended choice for anyone living in a non-licensing state. Alacrity recommends that adjusters contact the Department of Insurance for the state in which they are seeking licensure. 

• Please note, adjusters providing auto adjusting services may also be required to obtain property damage auto appraisal licenses for states requiring both Adjusting and Appraiser licenses.

What are CE credits and are they required for Adjusters?

Certain professions require that a specific number of Continuing Education credits are obtained per year to ensure that they are up to date with current practices in their field. The number of credits required for adjusters varies by state. Alacrity does not offer courses for CE at this time however we do have a partnership with adjusterPro to offer you 25% off the published price for any licensing or CE courses – use code: ALCTYSOL at checkout.

• Adjusters should review the Department of Insurance guidelines for the types of CE credits required for their resident or designated home state license, as well as the applicable renewal periods.

How long does it take to get licensed? 

This can vary by state and depends on whether an adjuster is applying for a home state or additional non-resident states. 

• The home state license will typically take the longest because an adjuster will have to study for and pass a test before applying for the license itself.
• Processing times for most states range from three days to several months. Some states may require payment and online applications, others may need fingerprints or specific bonds.

What does reciprocity mean?  
Reciprocity means a mutual exchange of privileges. In other words, if you have a license that is reciprocal with another state you can visit that state’s DOI website to apply online and do not have to retest to obtain the license. You do have to pay a fee and that varies by state.

• To reiterate, adjusters MUST obtain additional licenses to work in additional states. Reciprocity is only applicable to the testing portion of the application.

Do Adjusters need to test in each state they wish to obtain a license in? 

Not typically. Most states will issue a non-resident license for a fee and accept the home state test if they are reciprocal. If they are not reciprocal, additional testing may be required. Other states such as New York and Hawaii will require a separate test, regardless of the adjuster’s home state.

Can an Adjuster deploy to a state they are not licensed in?  

Yes, if it is a non-licensing state.   

• Emergency licenses are only issued in major catastrophes such as hurricanes, and many states will require a home state license to issue one. adjusters with permanent licenses will always be prioritized before those needing the emergency licenses.

Does Alacrity offer any pre-licensing courses or coupons for online courses? 

No, we do not. Alacrity has a partnership with adjusterPro to offer you 25% off the published price for any licensing or CE courses – use code: ALCTYSOL at checkout.

How can Adjusters obtain an emergency license?  

Emergency licenses are issued on a case-by-case basis, and we do not recommend waiting to see if an emergency license will be available, preference is given to adjusters who hold an active license. Just because a state may advertise emergency licenses does not mean a specific carrier will approve the use of them.  

• Depending on the state, adjusters may be responsible for obtaining an emergency license themselves. In these instances, Alacrity will provide state specific instructions on how to obtain and upload emergency licenses for those adjusters deployed with Alacrity. For most states, Alacrity must apply for the emergency licenses on behalf of the adjuster; this process is initiated immediately after an adjuster accepts an assignment.

If a home state license is reciprocal to other states, does that mean with a home state license an Adjuster can work in any state? 

Reciprocity typically refers only to the testing in certain states. adjusters must apply for licenses in each state they would like to work. Note that some states do not accept a designated home state license and will require testing such as Arizona.  

If an Adjuster’s home state does not require a license; what state should be designated as the home state? Do they need a license at all?  

If an adjuster resides in a non-licensing state, we strongly recommend that they obtain a designated home state license.  We recommend the adjuster obtain their Texas or Florida DHS license. Texas and Florida will offer the most reciprocity.  

What is a self-appointment and is it required for Adjusters?  

Depending on the state, adjusters may need to self-appoint in order to have an active license.  A staff or company adjuster may be appointed under an entity license, whereas an independent adjuster would need to appoint themselves. This is not required in all states, and information regarding appointments should be researched on a specific state’s Department of Insurance website. 

• The Florida license does not expire but the self-appointment does, so this ensures that an adjuster’s CEs are completed and in compliance before renewal.  adjusters must have a valid self-appointment on file to work Florida claims.

Do all states require licensing?  

• Colorado  
• District of Columbia   
• Illinois   
• Iowa   
• Kansas   
• Maryland   
• Missouri   
• Nebraska   
• New Jersey   
• North Dakota   
• Ohio   
• Pennsylvania   
• South Dakota   
• Tennessee   
• Virginia   
• Wisconsin  

What are the most beneficial state licenses for catastrophe Adjusters to obtain?

• New York – Due to the complex application process, many adjusters do not possess it. 
• Hawaii – Due to the complex application process, many adjusters do not possess it.
• Texas – This is the most common hail-prone state.
• Florida – This is the most common hurricane-prone state. 

Currently we refer adjusters to the licensing tier below as a general guideline to make a more informed decision. We suggest prioritizing hail-prone states versus hurricane states depending on the time of year. Depending upon deployment needs and the course of weather-related events, other licenses may be required. It is incumbent upon each candidate to make themselves as deployable as possible. 

Tier #1   
• Home State License  
• Texas  
• Florida  
• New York 
• Louisiana  
• Oklahoma  
• South Carolina  
• North Carolina  
• Kentucky  
• Minnesota  
• New Mexico  
• New Hampshire  
• Mississippi  
• Georgia  
• Alabama  
• Indiana 

Tier #2  
• Arkansas  
• Arizona  
• Michigan  
• Oregon  
• Washington 

What's the difference between a PA and an IA?   

Independent adjusters do not and cannot work on behalf of an individual policyholder. They are paid by Insurance Companies to adjust the claim on its behalf. Public adjusters work for the policyholders only and do not work for the Insurance company.   

Can an Adjuster carry both a PA and an IA license?  

This is state specific. Adjusters who carry a PA license are not eligible to work with Alacrity until the license is surrendered and documentation is submitted to our office.

PROFILE REGISTRATION & MAINTENANCE
 
How can new Adjusters register or apply to be on Alacrity’s roster?

Adjusters can register online using this link. The link can also be found by visiting our website and clicking on Join the Team.

How long does the registration process take?

Adjusters are asked a few brief questions upon initial registration and an email is sent to confirm their email address. Once an adjuster confirms their email address, they are directed to our questionnaire. Depending on the amount of experience and work history an adjuster has to enter, the process can take anywhere from five to twenty-five minutes. Once completed, adjusters are directed to their new portal account. Any information not entered or not available during the initial questionnaire can be added to the profile at any time by the adjuster themselves or a member of our team.

If an Adjuster had an existing account with a company acquired by Alacrity, do they need to create an account in the Alacrity portal?

Adjusters with previous accounts will not need to create a new one as all information from their profile has been moved into the new portal. adjusters should follow the prompts to sign up in the portal and a member of the team will match their registration with the existing account. 

For issues logging in, please contact our Service Desk at 985-542-2369.

Can Adjusters update availability online?

Adjusters can use the Unavailability section in the resource profile to enter any timeframes during which they are unavailable to receive claims. All adjusters are otherwise assumed to be available.

Where should Adjusters send or upload their documents, such as certifications and resumes?

Adjusters can upload documents directly into their resource profile. When logged in, click the Certifications/Paperwork tab in the top left menu.

• This portion of the profile is broken down into specific sections for different types of documents. Please use the Paperwork section to upload your resume. For questions concerning which section to upload specific documents into, please reach out to compliance@alacritysolutions.com. 
  

TRAINING & CERTIFICATIONS   

Does each carrier require a specific certification to handle that carrier’s claims?

Some carriers do require a specific certification prior to working claims. Please feel free to give us a call to discuss which carrier certifications are available and would be most beneficial to you, based on your current experience, skillset, and location.  You may also visit the Alacrity Academy https://alacrityacademy.myabsorb.com/#/login to browse and register for available courses.

Does Alacrity recognize training and certifications from other vendors? 

Yes, if carriers allow reciprocity with certifications, Alacrity will honor it.  Some carriers do require resources to be affiliated with only one firm at a time. Please upload all training and certifications to your resource profile.

Are Xactimate courses recommended for all Adjusters?   

Regardless of skill level, we always recommend taking advantage of all Xactimate classes. Classroom courses are a great way to pick up tips from fellow adjusters and instructors to enhance your skillset and speed.  

• While Xactimate is the leading industry standard platform, Symbility is another very popular platform being used by several large carriers. Online courses for both can be found in the Alacrity Academy.

Does Alacrity have an Adjuster school or recommend one?  

We do not, but we encourage adjusters to research before attending any of the adjuster schools available to make sure they are accredited and cover the items that you need/want to learn.  

• We recommend our adjuster Basics Course for Property Field adjusters. This is a 4-day in-person course that can be scheduled via our website. adjusters are eligible for reimbursement if they accept and complete an assignment with us within 18 months of completion date.

Does Alacrity offer or host any classes for Adjusters? 

Yes! Be sure and check out Alacrity Academy regularly for pop-up training sessions which are sometimes added at the last minute. The following highly recommended courses are currently available to Alacrity adjusters. 

Online:
• State Farm Certifications 
• Alacrity California Fair Claims Practices 
• USAA Certification 
• CA Earthquake Certification 
• TWIA Certification 
• FL Citizens Certification 
• Xactimate 
• Symbility 
• ClaimXperience Training 
• Wind and Hail Damage to Residential Roofing by HAAG Education 

Classroom:
• Xactimate  
• Adjuster Basics Course – Property Adjusting  
• Rope and Harness 

Locations:
• Irving, TX & Buford, GA.

How do I log in to the Alacrity Academy?

Adjusters may access the Academy using the link in the top left corner of their portal OR from the Workforce Resources tab on our website. Save this link! https://alacrityacademy.myabsorb.com/ 

• Keep in mind that since the Academy is a separate platform than the portal, you MUST create a new account when logging in for the first time.
  

DEPLOYMENT

How does Alacrity contact Adjusters for deployments or standby? 

The primary means of communication for deployments are text and phone calls. We may also use emails, surveys or push notifications to the app as additional forms of communication. To ensure you are subscribed for text communications, text “JOIN” to “58620”.  

How does Alacrity decide who gets deployed first?  

We look at previous industry and carrier specific experience, training, licensing, and location when making deployment decisions.  

• It is imperative that adjusters not only keep an active and up-to-date profile, but that they are responsive to all communication requests from Alacrity.

Do I need to have claims handling experience to work for Alacrity? 

While claims handling experience is preferred, we have opportunities that do not require specific experience.  Alacrity is always seeking new claims and customer service professionals to support and staff the growing needs of our business. We are looking for individuals who are open and eager to learn with strong computer, written, and verbal communication skills.  With this core skillset, our Training and Management Team can provide new resources with the instruction and guidance to develop their advanced skillsets.

How does an Adjuster make themselves deployable with or without experience?   

There are several ways adjusters can increase their chances for deployment, here are a few suggestions. 

• Obtain your home state license or designated home state license.
• Obtain other more difficult licenses such as New York and/or Hawaii.
• Take advantage of online training/certifications offered by Alacrity and other outlets.
• Learn Xactimate/ Symbility.
  • Take the LMS Xactimate training which is at our discounted rate.
  • Take the free Symbility training offered in the Alacrity Academy.
• Complete independent ride-alongs.
  • If you don't know any current adjusters, try social media outlets oriented towards adjusters and see if anyone is in your area. 

• Take advantage of in-person training and certification classes and be sure to network as much as possible. 
• Update your resource profile frequently – click here to login.
• Consider accepting entry level roles in-office to gain experience, especially if located in DFW.
  

Once an Adjuster has completed the registration process, how do they remain active on Alacrity’s roster? 

Due to the ever-changing nature of the industry, Alacrity recommends that candidates keep their profile updated with their availability, licenses and contact information.  We request that candidates respond to our communications in a timely manner and provide us with all information we may request.  Click here to log in to the portal.

How long do assignments usually last? 

The duration differs from assignment to assignment and there are many factors that determine the length of an assignment. These factors include the type of assignment, client, claim volume, performance, and licenses. 

How often should an Adjuster check-in about opportunities?    

This depends on what opportunities you are looking for. If you see a weather event, feel free to check in. If you are interested in daily work, you can contact our Resource Management Team to better understand our current needs as they vary. 

• Our Resource Management Team can be reached by calling 888-887-8070 and following the prompts. adjusters are encouraged to email our team at ResourceManagement@alacritysolutions.com when simply checking in or inquiring about available assignments.

How quickly do Adjusters have to be on site for an event?   

Adjusters must typically arrive within 48 hours of accepting an assignment. Occasionally, more notice is given for desk or remote assignments.

What volume can Adjusters expect on a CAT deployment?   

This varies based on severity and policies in the specific area. We try to keep adjuster’s pending inventory manageable to allow them to meet the turn-around time and client guidelines. Claim distribution is also dictated by overall volume, quality and timely claims handling.

Why am I not receiving text messages? 

Not all text messages are sent to our entire database. Typically, we will target populations in order of eligibility. This may be based on experience, certifications/training, licensing or even proximity. 
   

EQUIPMENT & SOFTWARE
 
Can Adjusters use drones?   

No, currently our clients have not approved our resources to use them unless specifically requested.  

What estimating software does Alacrity require?   

These requirements are client specific, but we typically utilize Xactimate, Symbility or FileTrac.   

• For auto claims, we typically utilize Audatex and/or CCC1.   

What version of Xactimate does Alacrity require? Can Adjusters get a discount through Alacrity?   

We recommend the full desktop X1 version at this time. If you are currently working or about to deploy with Alacrity, you will qualify for a discounted rate. 

• We also do not recommend using Xactimate online but rather downloading the desktop X1 full version.
• In addition to Xactimate, we highly recommend registering for a Symbility ID. We have multiple clients who have made the switch to the Symbility platform! Discounts may be available for certain deployments or clients when actively working with Alacrity.

Do Adjusters have to supply their own equipment?    

1099 adjusters must supply their own equipment, including active estimating software instances. For W2 adjusters, there may be occasions in which you have the option to utilize your own equipment for certain carriers.  

• Some carriers may provide equipment when you are deployed with them.  

Which carriers use Settle Assist?   

Currently we work with several carriers who require Settle Assist, please feel free to give us a call to discuss carrier specific requirements.

What equipment is necessary and/or required: 

Equipment requirements may vary depending on the type of assignment or role, here are the most common requirements for Field adjusters. 

Required :
• Laptop 
• Reliable Mobile Internet Source 
• Smartphone with data 
• Reliable Vehicle 
   - Must be able to accommodate a two-story ladder 
• Camera  
• Pitch Gauge 
• Shingle Gauge  
• Chalk  
• Magnet for steel  
• Xactimate  
• Xactanalysis  
• Symbility  
• Tape measure/ measurement device  
• 2 Story Ladder  
• ITEL Kits- Roofing, Siding, and Flooring  

Additional Recommendations:
• Rope and harness equipment 
• Settle Assist  
• Cougar Paws  
• Shoe Covers for interior inspections  
• Putty knife  
• Tool Belt  
• External mouse for laptop 
• Printer