Benefits Officer
*Contract Type: 6-month contract
*Location: Hybrid
*Salary: Negotiable
We are recruiting on behalf of a client for a dedicated Benefits Officer to join their team on a six-month contract basis. This role involves assessing Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Discretionary Housing Payments. The successful candidate will ensure prompt and accurate assessments while balancing the need to deliver personalised service to claimants and protecting the council’s financial interests.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Accurately and promptly assess Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Discretionary Housing Payment claims in line with relevant regulations and performance targets.
*Manage the balance between subsidy loss due to overpayments caused by delays and errors, ensuring effective recovery of overpayments in accordance with legislation.
*Utilise the council document imaging system to manage all correspondence and documents associated with a claim, ensuring proper management as directed by the team leader.
*Maintain up-to-date knowledge of benefit legislation, keeping informed of government-led changes as notified in DWP Circulars.
*Ensure correct liability on Council Tax account information for customers, resolving any discrepancies that could affect financial awards.
*Develop fraud awareness and refer potential fraud cases to the Single Fraud Investigation Team and Internal Audit Team.
*Handle customer enquiries received in writing, face-to-face, and by telephone, providing accurate information in a polite, friendly, and efficient manner to uphold a high level of customer care.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Good basic qualifications with 4 GCSE passes including English and Maths.
*Level 2 NVQ in Customer Service Level or compensatory experience.
*Previous experience in Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction assessments.
*Knowledge of Welfare Benefits Legislation.
*Experience using Capita Advantage assessment and Civica Document Imaging Software or other similar document imaging system.
*Excellent communication skills, capable of handling enquiries and providing information with clarity and professionalism.
*Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team.
*Proactive approach to work and a "can do" attitude.
Benefits:
*Competitive hourly rate.
*Flexible hybrid working arrangement.
*Opportunity to contribute to essential public services.
*Inclusive and supportive team environment.
To apply for this Benefits Officer position, please submit your CV to Holly Woodward @ REED