Council Tax and Benefits Officer

Benefits & Local Taxation Assessor

Newham | Resident Experience Directorate

Pay: £19 - £22.50 P/H

A customer-facing position responsible for the accurate administration and assessment of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Council Tax liability for residents. Duties encompass determining entitlements, processing claims, collecting revenue, and ensuring compliance with complex legislative frameworks including Housing Benefit Regulations, Council Tax law, and related welfare policy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Accurate calculation and timely processing of claims, reductions, and liabilities.

• Handling of enquiries, revisions, and reconsiderations in line with legislative requirements.

• Ensuring high levels of customer service by offering tailored support to vulnerable residents and identifying potential cases of fraud.

• Using digital systems efficiently to update, retrieve, and maintain accurate records.

• Supporting performance and quality monitoring; mentoring junior staff and contributing to team development (SO2 grade).

• Representing the Council professionally during home visits, outreach events, and stakeholder meetings.

• Adherence to data protection, health & safety, and equality and diversity policies in all duties.

Possesses in-depth knowledge of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and associated regulations, with the ability to interpret and apply legislation precisely. Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and time-management skills underpin successful service delivery.