About the Opportunity
Our client is a well-respected nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities in New York City by providing essential social services. They are currently in search of a Benefits Specialist to become an integral part of their team and work under the guidance of the Program Director. The ideal candidate should exude enthusiasm and possess prior experience in supporting individuals in high-need housing, low-income communities, or serving veterans. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a meaningful impact by joining an organization committed to a noble cause.
The base pay for this position is $25 per hour. Actual compensation offered to the successful candidate may vary from posted hiring range based upon geographic location, work experience, education, and/or skill level, among other things. Details about eligibility for bonus compensation (if applicable) will be finalized at the time of offer.
Job Responsibilities
- Complete initial screenings to determine potential eligibility, schedule appointments, and provide direct assistance to complete benefits enrollment
- Be responsible for linkages to mainstream, public, healthcare, and VA benefits including direct assistance, referrals, advocacy, and follow up
- Collaborate with the program teams to identify individuals who need assistance acquiring benefits and ensure applications are completed to increase positive outcomes consistent with organizational policies and practices
- Coach clients about benefits and income options including the impact of employment on benefits
- Assess individuals who have potential eligibility for SSI/SSDI
- File initial applications and/or appeals for SSI/SSDI on behalf of clients, which includes additional interviews with clients and other sources, gathering medical records, writing SOAR Medical Summary Reports, obtaining other evidence for the claim, and acting as the appointed representative
- Facilitate necessary appointments to medical doctors, psychiatrists, or other specialists to obtain evidence to support the disability application
- Document service provision in AWARDS and maintain statistical spreadsheets to report data and outcomes monthly
Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in human services or a closely related field
- Knowledge of NYC income and benefit resources preferred
- SOAR Certification preferred; willingness to obtain SOAR certification required
- Understanding of the SSI/SSDI application process; familiarity with Social Security Administration’s Blue Book listings preferred
- Excellent writing skills required, brief-writing and medical summary-writing experience preferred; cursory knowledge of medical and psychiatric terminology and ability to write using the same
- Experience working in homelessness, substance abuse, mental health and/or trauma settings
- This position involves multiple priorities and occasional field work; candidates must be well organized with the energy to work with high-need tenants
- Experience working with low-income residents and/or Veterans preferred
