■\tSummary
Under the supervision of the Benefits Assistance Clients' Urban Project (BACUP) Director, the Benefit Specialist is responsible for assisting clients with SSI/SSDI benefits based on their disability. The Benefit Specialist must be focused on benefit issues through regular meetings with clients and with intensive follow-up in all areas pertaining to the quality of life for those he/she represents. The Benefit Specialist must maintain accurate and neat folders and files that would pass an Auditor's review. The Benefit Specialist must always act in a professional manner as a Peer Specialist and adhere to all regulations, laws and standards set by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH), the Social Security Administration (SSA), and those set by SSG and BACUP. The Benefit Specialist will be responsible for assisting the Director in the development of the BACUP Benefits Department. The Benefit Specialist will assist in all BACUP activities including but not limited to facilitating groups, dealing with benefit issues and other issues of concern to those in recovery from mental illness, including co-occurring and dual diagnoses. This is a full-time, non-exempt position.
■\tEssential Functions
•\tRepresent clients for SSI and SSDI benefits at the BACUP office and, on occasion, community facilities.
•\tResponsible for maintaining confidentiality and following all regulations and laws as they pertain to privacy, HIPAA and confidentiality.
•\tMust do all work required to maintain high approval rating for clients applying for SSI and/or SSDI benefits.
•\tResponsible for ensuring that clients are contacted on a regular basis and for meeting clients as needed to ensure proper case management.
•\tResponsible for ensuring that all files and file cabinets are maintained in a neat, secure and organized manner.
•\tProvide peer counseling and supportive case management for benefits assistance clients.
•\tOffer peer support to BACUP clients and visitors as needed.
•\tMust know rules and regulations as they apply to disability benefits.
•\tServe as liaison for clients with local SSA Claim Representative and DDS Analysts.
•\tRefer clients as needed to agencies for food, shelter, transportation, health care and other social services.
•\tMust be resourceful and/or have reasonable knowledge of agencies where clients can be referred.
•\tMust meet assigned deadlines for all assignments including timely writing of progress notes as required.
•\tMust perform data collection for evaluation and outcome measures on all aspects of program.
•\tAttend industry meetings and conduct outreach to build industry relationships and community contacts.
•\tPerform other duties and responsibilities as assigned, including front/reception desk duties.
•\tTransport Clients to/from BACUP according to approved transportation schedule.
•\tAdhere to all SSG Policy guidelines pertaining to use of agency vehicles and transportation requirements.
•\tRegular attendance required.
•\tOther duties as needed.
•\tMinimum Qualifications - Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
•\tBilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
•\tStrong ability to listen and observe confidentiality in all respects.
•\tProfessionalism in dealing with clients, co-workers and other contacts.
•\tEffective verbal and written communication skills.
•\tAbility to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities.
•\tKnowledge of SSA structure and programs.
•\tExperience and knowledge of benefits including but not limited to SSI, SSDI, SDI and Medi-Cal.
•\tKnowledge of LACDMH structure and how it works with contract agencies.
•\tMust have knowledge of PC software (i.e., Windows, word processing, spreadsheets and databases).
•\tMust know reporting requirements in all areas related to clients, including those of clients who may be suicidal and/or homicidal.
•\tKnowledge of co-occurring and dual-diagnosis disorders.
•\tSensitivity toward all cultures and ability to work with clients and staff from diverse ethnic and socio- economic backgrounds.
•\tPossess strong interest in maintaining cultural competency and emotional intelligence.
•\tLived experience with mental illness and openness to share that experience to motivate clients.
•\tPeer Specialist or Community Worker training certificate preferred.
•\tHave a valid California Driver License and Proof of Insurance.
•\tMust undergo verification of employment eligibility and background check

Special Service for Groups, Inc. – better known as SSG – is a non-profit health and human service organization dedicated to building and sustaining community-based programs that address the needs of vulnerable communities. Special Service for Groups (SSG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to provide community-based solutions to the social and economic issues facing those in greatest need. SSG has evolved into a model organization designed to provide services for diverse groups with maximum efficiency and impact. This is achieved by developing and managing programs which serve our many communities by encouraging their involvement and self-sufficiency. SSG believes that the needs of groups and individuals cross traditional ethnic, racial and other cultural boundaries. SSG serves as a bridge between people with common needs to identify ways to pool resources for the greater good of all.