Zero! Everyone starts somewhere and there are a few steps involved to becoming an adjuster that will allow you to gain experience along the way. As with most jobs, companies prefer new hires to have some prior experience within the field they have applied for. However, once you are approved for your license, if you then take action to learn XM8, apply to rosters, and utilize any training sessions that may be offered to you by IA firms, you will find yourself on a great path to landing a job.

Short answer, no. There is another estimating program called Symbility, which is used by a select group of insurance companies that you could learn. While you don’t HAVE to know your way around Xactimate, it is a plus if you are accustomed to the software and can help you stand out when looking for employment. Since Xactimate is the leading estimating software used by over 80% of insurance carriers, your job opportunities will greatly increase if you are knowledgeable and proficient in XM8. Additionally, the more familiar you are with XM8, the quicker you can close claims, and the bigger the paycheck!