Public Benefits Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Public Benefits Paralegal

Reports to: Managing Attorney or Designated Supervising Attorney
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt | Full-Time
Location: Hybrid, Remote, or in office

Position Summary

The Public Benefits Paralegal supports clients and families seeking or maintaining long-term care benefits, particularly Medicaid. This position is responsible for managing the application process from intake through approval, coordinating renewals annually, and ensuring that all necessary legal and financial documents are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. The Public Benefits Paralegal also collaborates with the estate planning team when documents such as powers of attorney or trusts are needed to support a Medicaid plan.

This is a client-facing role that requires empathy, organization, persistence, and discretion. The ideal candidate is comfortable interpreting financial documents, explaining complex requirements to clients, and managing deadlines related to government agency timelines.

Key Responsibilities

Medicaid Applications & Case Management

• Prepare and submit Medicaid applications in coordination with supervising attorney
• Guide clients through the process of gathering financial records, medical expense data, and personal documents
• Review and organize application packets for completeness and accuracy
• Track case timelines and follow up on pending documents or agency responses
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date files in the firm’s case management system (e.g., Clio)

Annual Medicaid Renewal Coordination

• Maintain a renewal calendar for all approved Medicaid clients
• Communicate with clients well in advance of renewal deadlines to gather updated financial information
• Prepare and submit renewal applications or verifications in accordance with agency requirements
• Ensure continued eligibility and avoid benefit disruption due to administrative issues

Client Communication & Support

• Serve as primary point of contact for clients navigating Medicaid and long-term care benefits
• Clearly explain documentation requirements, application steps, and next actions
• Communicate empathetically with families under stress while maintaining professionalism
• Schedule and conduct review calls or in-person meetings to prepare files for submission
• Respond to follow-up inquiries from clients and agencies with efficiency and accuracy

Team Collaboration

• Coordinate with estate planning paralegal to ensure timely drafting of required planning documents (e.g., powers of attorney, irrevocable trusts, or personal services contracts) for Medicaid eligibility
• Work closely with attorneys to confirm eligibility strategies and legal compliance
• Coordinate with financial institutions, facilities, and government caseworkers as needed
• Communicate internally about file status and next steps to ensure firm-wide visibility

Skills and Qualifications

• At least 1–2 years of experience working with public benefits or Medicaid preferred
• Paralegal certificate or related degree strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of financial documentation and benefit eligibility rules
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and compassion in client interactions
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with a focus on deadlines
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, case management systems (e.g., Clio), and digital file organization tools
• Ability to manage multiple active cases at various stages of development

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• Medicaid applications and renewals are submitted completely, accurately, and on time
• Clients feel informed, supported, and at ease throughout the benefits process
• Required estate planning documents are coordinated and finalized promptly in collaboration with estate planning team
• Firm avoids delays or denials due to missing documentation or untimely renewals
• Team members and attorneys are regularly updated about the progress of each case

We pride ourselves on our client-centric approach and our commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. As a member of our team, you will play a key role in providing top-tier legal services that make a meaningful difference in our clients' lives. We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a culture that values integrity, innovation, and work-life balance.

Company Description

We pride ourselves on our client-centric approach and our commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. As a member of our team, you will play a key role in providing top-tier legal services that make a meaningful difference in our clients' lives. We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a culture that values integrity, innovation, and work-life balance.