Benefit Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Public Assistance Eligibility Specialist

Job Summary

The Public Assistance Eligibility Specialist is responsible for reviewing applications and determining the eligibility of applicants and recipients for various public assistance programs. This position conducts interactive interviews, gathers and verifies information, reviews application materials for accuracy and completeness, and applies established rules, policies, and program requirements to make accurate eligibility determinations.

The Eligibility Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for applicants and recipients, providing guidance regarding available assistance programs and helping individuals understand and access the benefits for which they may qualify. The position requires strong communication, analytical, customer service, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to handle confidential information with professionalism.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review applications for various public assistance programs and determine applicant and recipient eligibility based on established rules, regulations, and policies.
• Conduct interactive interviews with applicants and recipients to gather necessary information and clarify circumstances affecting eligibility.
• Review application forms and supporting documentation for completeness, accuracy, and consistency.
• Follow up with applicants and recipients as needed to obtain missing or additional information required to complete eligibility determinations.
• Verify information provided by applicants through appropriate sources and documentation.
• Explain program requirements, rules, policies, and procedures clearly and professionally to applicants and recipients.
• Advise individuals regarding public assistance programs and benefits that may be available based on their circumstances.
• Assist applicants and recipients with understanding the steps necessary to receive eligible benefits.
• Communicate with claimants, representatives, employers, medical professionals, state and federal agencies, and other involved parties to obtain and verify information.
• Research and evaluate information to make accurate and timely qualification and eligibility determinations.
• Address customer questions, concerns, and issues while identifying appropriate resolutions.
• Maintain accurate case records, documentation, and electronic files in accordance with established procedures.
• Protect confidential and sensitive applicant and recipient information.
• Manage multiple cases and priorities while meeting established deadlines and productivity requirements.
• Participate in required meetings, training sessions, and conferences.
• Travel to various locations may be required for off-site meetings, training, conferences, or other business-related activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to conduct professional interviews and obtain detailed information through effective questioning.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to analyze information and make decisions based on established rules and policies.
• Ability to explain complex policies and procedures in a clear and understandable manner.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information professionally.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with team members.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and adjust priorities as workload demands.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills and the ability to learn specialized systems and databases.
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, and program requirements.

Training

Selected candidates will complete approximately 7 weeks of mandatory, in-person training designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the Eligibility Specialist role.

Following successful completion of training, there may be an opportunity for resources to transition into a full-time employee (FTE) position, based on business needs, performance, and applicable requirements.

Work Environment

This position involves frequent interaction with applicants, recipients, and external stakeholders. The successful candidate should be comfortable working in a structured, deadline-driven environment while maintaining professionalism, accuracy, and compassion when assisting individuals seeking public assistance.

Travel: May be required for meetings, training, conferences, or other assigned business activities.