A new survey from Digital Insurance finds most insurers and brokers plan to increase technology spending in 2026, with AI, cybersecurity tools and digital platforms driving investment. For claims adjusters, the results point to continued changes in workflow, fraud detection and catastrophe response.
Carriers are directing a significant share of budgets toward software and AI, while brokers are balancing technology upgrades with workforce expansion. These spending decisions will shape the tools adjusters use for file management, documentation and data analysis.
Disaster affordability ranks as the industry's top concern, reflecting ongoing catastrophe pressures and coverage restrictions in high-risk areas. Adjusters can expect continued scrutiny of policy terms and valuation disputes. Social inflation also remains a major issue, increasing the likelihood of litigation and raising the stakes for thorough claim documentation.
AI-driven fraud is an emerging risk, prompting investment in predictive analytics and anomaly detection tools. Survey respondents expect AI to affect claims processing, underwriting, pricing and customer experience in 2026 and beyond. The focus is shifting from experimentation to practical applications that reduce cycle times and improve accuracy.
Adoption of parametric, usage-based and embedded insurance models remains limited but growing. As telematics and automated triggers expand, adjusters will rely more heavily on real-time data in coverage determinations and loss evaluations.
Overall, 2026 is shaping up as a year of deeper digital integration, with direct implications for how claims are investigated, documented and resolved.
