Disability Benefits Specialist

Milwaukee County Wisconsin•Milwaukee, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction, the Disability Benefits Specialists (DBS) meets with customers to provide timely and accurate information about public and private benefits as well as administer technical assistance to access benefits as needed. This position will provide information about customer rights, as well as handle complaints, grievances, and appeal process, and may provide representation at hearings. The Disabilities Specialists also makes referrals to community agencies.

Requirements

Current resident of the state of Wisconsin at the time of application
Valid Wisconsin driver’s license with access to an insured and reliable vehicle; both maintained throughout employment
Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field is required.
At least two (2) years of experience working in a disability-related professional position is required.
Intermediate knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
Able and willing to travel to and from customer’s homes to assist with the application or appeal process as needed.
Able and willing to attend mandatory Disability Benefits Specialist training with the State of Wisconsin and Disability Rights if Wisconsin.
Require advanced analysis skills, problem solving skills; ability to identify other programmatic supports, informal and formal, to support families.
Skills needed for success in this role include customer service, excellent verbal communication, patience, writing succinctly, critical thinking, and a professional approach.
Must have the ability to work collaboratively with other units and organizations within and throughout the county.
Proficient in data collection, analysis and in the use of general office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Social Security, Medicare, Medical Assistance, SSI, and/or other PUBLIC benefit programs is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Assist customers to locate and gather financial/non-financial information needed to apply for public and private benefits and assist in the application process.
Research benefit information and provide follow-up to ensure all information is processed correctly.
Provide accurate and timely information about what public and private benefits a customer may be eligible for and how to apply for these benefits.
Utilize information found in State and Federal websites including CARES and Forward Health.
Assist customers with applications for benefits.
Document all customer contacts in the State Peer Place database.
Document 100% on-time reporting and encounter reporting in Peer place.
Enter monetary amounts for each case closed.
Update the DBS tracking form.
Maintain case files and spreadsheets.
Attend regularly scheduled meetings with ADRC supervisor and supervising attorney from DRW to discuss DBS case issues.
Attend required state DBS training and meetings throughout the year.
Provide information and technical assistance about rights, complaints, grievances, and appeals to customers.
Serve as representative for administrative hearings or other grievance steps, as appropriate, and under guidance of a DRW attorney, for individuals with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health and/or substance abuse issues.
Dispense information and offer choices about community services and resources for persons with disabilities.
Able and willing to travel to and from customer’s homes to assist with the application process as needed.
Perform all other duties as assigned.