What is the difference between a staff (company) adjuster, an independent adjuster, and a public adjuster?

These three adjuster types differ by whom they work for. A staff (company) adjuster is a salaried employee of the insurance company and handles claims on its behalf. An independent adjuster is an independent contractor hired by one or more insurers (often during catastrophes or for overflow) to adjust claims for the insurer. A public adjuster is hired by and represents the policyholder/insured, advocating for the insured to maximize their recovery, and is typically paid a percentage of the settlement. Understanding which party each adjuster represents — insurer (staff, independent) versus insured (public) — is fundamental and frequently tested adjuster content.