SOAR Benefits Specialist

Brightli • Independence, MO

5d

About The Position

The SOAR Benefits Specialist helps adults affected by homelessness and co-occurring disorders navigate SSI/SSDI applications and access other entitlement benefits using the SOAR (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery) model. The role assists people served with applications, supporting documentation, and coordination with Social Security Administration (SSA) and Disability Determination Services (DDS). It contributes to the organization’s mission of providing comprehensive support and empowering people in need.

The position is in the Adult Community Services department in Independence, Missouri. The specialist works collaboratively with an Integrated Health Coach and team, partner programs, and representative payee services as needed. The role also involves tracking application outcomes, maintaining documentation, and assisting with program development and quality assurance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Able to become a certified SOAR service provider.
• Complete a background check, including criminal record, driving record, abuse/neglect, and fingerprint checks.
• Complete New Hire Orientation at the beginning of employment.
• Complete all training requirements, including Relias, at the beginning of employment and annually thereafter.
• Current driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and current auto insurance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in the behavioral health field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Complete SSI/SSDI applications according to program policies and procedures.
• Link people served to SSA and coordinate information and required documents between SSA and DDS.
• Deliver and electronically transfer required application forms to SSA.
• Collect existing medical evidence, including information from outside treating sources.
• Complete assessments and write medical summary reports for people served as assigned or identified.
• Coordinate and communicate with the primary Integrated Health Coach and team.
• Collaborate with representative payee services as needed.
• Follow up with SSA and DDS as needed.
• Collect SOAR outcome data, including monthly approvals and year-end approval data.
• Track SOAR applications according to grant requirements.
• Refer people who are not eligible for benefits advocacy services to partner programs.
• Identify information and collect documentation needed for benefits applications, including consent and authorization forms.
• Document contacts with people served and chart progress.
• Assist with program development and quality assurance activities as directed by the supervisor.
• Complete annual training requirements as outlined by agency requirements and the supervisor.
• Perform other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 counseling, legal assistance, and financial consultation for the employee and household at no cost.
• Mileage reimbursement for work functions requiring travel.
• Employee discounts on hotels, theme parks, attractions, and college tuition.
• Paid time off for full-time employees.
• Health, dental, vision, retirement, and life benefits for full-time employees.
• Initial, ongoing, comprehensive, and supportive training.
• Advancement opportunities and promotion from within.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level