What are the responsibilities and job description for the Benefits Specialist position at ASCEND Mental Wellness?
ASCEND Mental Wellness is looking to hire a Benefits Specialist within our Restorative Residential Program. This position is located in Hudson Falls, NY, and is full-time.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental and vision coverage, holiday, vacation, sick/personal time, and 401(k).
A sign-on bonus of $1,000 is included with this position.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Maintain knowledge of client entitlements, including SSI, sources of potential funding (and eligibility requirements). Attend entitlement training, as offered, to ensure knowledge of eligibility changes.
- Maintain open communication and working relationships with all agencies serving the needs of Agency clients.
- Work effectively with Agency staff and external agencies on monthly Representative Payee benefits and finances.
- Process new rep. payee applications
- Be available to Agency staff and clients regarding benefit eligibility and provide advocacy services as needed.
- Assist eligible clients who are not connected with residential or case management with annual benefit re-certifications.
- Monitor rep payee accounts for incorrect benefit deposits and follow through with corrections.
- Report wages and changes to SSA, SSP, DSS, etc.
- Assist clients with re-certification for HUD, SNAP, Medicaid/Medicare
- Assist clients with monthly wage reporting with IRWE’s (impairment related work expenses)
- Provide accounted documentation as needed.
- Maintain accurate rep payee files for Social Security audits
- Work effectively with the Administration to ensure productive program operations.
- Maintaining/,managing program fees
Qualifications:
- Bachelor Degree preferred but not required. 2 years of experience in human services needed, preferably with direct experience of State, Federal, and County benefit programs. Accounting experience preferred as well.
- Valid NYS driver’s license acceptable to Agency insurance standards.
- Must be of good character and background and display an affinity for working with people with mental illness and/or co-occurring disorders.
- Must have the ability to work independently, have good problem solving skills and have the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $21.00 - $22.50 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Salary : $21 - $23
