Benefits Specialist

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