Benefits Assessment Officer

We are seeking an experienced Benefits Assessment Officer to support the delivery of the DWP Crisis Resilience Fund for our client based in Waltham Forest. The successful candidate will have substantial experience in assessing and processing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims, including discretionary awards, and will be responsible for making accurate, timely, and well-informed decisions. The Benefits Assessment Officer will play a key role in supporting vulnerable residents, managing service demand, and ensuring that applications and awards are processed in accordance with relevant legislation, policies, procedures, and the objectives of the Fund.

• Assess and process a range of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims, ensuring decisions are accurate and compliant with relevant legislation and guidance.
• Assess applications for discretionary awards and financial support, considering individual circumstances and eligibility criteria.
• Make timely and well-reasoned decisions on benefit and support applications.
• Review evidence and supporting documentation to verify eligibility and entitlement.
• Identify and support vulnerable residents, providing appropriate advice and guidance where required.
• Manage a varied caseload effectively, prioritising work in line with service requirements and demand.
• Respond to customer enquiries regarding benefits, entitlement, assessments, and discretionary support.
• Liaise with internal departments and external agencies, including the DWP, where appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure all case information is recorded in accordance with council procedures and data protection requirements.
• Ensure decisions are communicated clearly to residents and provide appropriate explanations where applications are refused or awards are adjusted.
• Contribute to the effective and efficient delivery of the DWP Crisis Resilience Fund and its objectives.
• Identify complex cases and elevate issues where appropriate.
• Work to agreed performance, accuracy, and quality standards while maintaining a high level of customer service.

• Substantial experience of processing and assessing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims.
• Experience assessing discretionary awards or other forms of financial assistance.
• Strong knowledge of relevant benefits legislation, regulations, and local authority procedures.
• Experience making accurate and timely benefit or financial support decisions.
• Experience working with vulnerable customers and handling sensitive or complex cases.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and meet deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a wider benefits or revenues team.

Working Hours:

36/week

Working Pattern:
The role is primarily home-based, with an expectation of one day per week in the office