Benefit Assessment Officer

6 Month Contract With A Local Authority

To ensure that benefit claims are assessed accurately, efficiently, and paid correctly in accordance with current legislation, regulations, and local authority guidance.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess new claims and changes in circumstances for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support accurately and within agreed timescales.
  




• Apply relevant legislation, regulations, and procedures to ensure correct entitlement decisions.
  




• Calculate benefit entitlement using the MRI/Academy system.
  




• Verify and validate supporting documentation in line with statutory requirements.
  




• Maintain accurate case records and ensure all decisions are clearly documented.
  




• Handle customer queries (written and verbal) regarding benefit claims and decisions.
  




• Identify and refer potential fraud cases where appropriate.
  




• Work collaboratively with internal departments and external agencies.
  




• Contribute to performance targets and service improvement initiatives.
  

Requirements

• Proven experience assessing Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Support claims within a local authority setting.
  




• Strong working knowledge of benefit legislation and guidance.
  




• Experience using MRI/Academy benefits processing system.
  




• Ability to interpret complex information and make accurate entitlement decisions.
  




• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  




• Good communication and customer service skills.
  




• Ability to manage a caseload and meet deadlines in a high\-volume environment.
  

• Experience working in a hybrid/remote environment.
  




• Knowledge of welfare reform changes and their impact on benefit assessments.
  

• Bi\-Weekly Payments
  


• Basic DBS Is Required For This Role
  


• 37 Working Hours Per Week