We are working with a local authority to appoint a Benefits Assessment Officer to support the delivery of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support services. The role offers flexibility to work fully remotely or from the office, depending on candidate preference.

This is a great opportunity for an experienced officer to join a high-performing team where you will assess eligibility, process applications, and manage changes in circumstances in line with current legislation and council policy.

The successful candidate will have strong knowledge of welfare benefits, the ability to interpret complex legislation, and demonstrate a high level of accuracy and customer service.

The Role
·Assess Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support applications in accordance with current legislation and council policies
·Determine eligibility and entitlement, verifying all supporting documentation from applicants, landlords, DWP, HMRC and third parties
·Process changes in circumstances using ATLAS, VEP, UCDS and other relevant data sources
·Maintain clear, accurate and accessible claim records using internal systems
·Identify and refer potentially fraudulent claims to the DWP Fraud and Error Service
·Issue overpayment invoices and recover overpaid Housing Benefit using appropriate recovery methods
·Respond to queries from customers and stakeholders via telephone, email and written correspondence
·Provide advice to the public regarding Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, Universal Credit, and other welfare entitlements
·Liaise with departments including Council Tax, Housing Options, and Customer Services, as well as landlords and external representatives

Key Requirements
·Significant experience assessing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims
·Good working knowledge of relevant housing and welfare legislation
·Excellent communication and negotiation skills, particularly in complex or sensitive situations
·Ability to prioritise workload, meet deadlines and work independently
·Computer literate with experience using document management systems and Microsoft Office
·IRRV Technician qualification (desirable)
·Experience using Academy (Capita) systems is advantageous

How to Apply
If you are interested in this role and meet the criteria above, please send us your application today. If you have any questions about the vacancy, please click APPLY NOW.

If you do not hear from us within 48 hours of applying, your application has been unsuccessful.

Footnote
If you feel that this job matches your skills but not the rate, location, or seniority, please feel free to send us your CV anyway. We constantly recruit for similar roles across all levels, UK-wide, and would be pleased to speak with you confidentially about your employment status.
Even if you're currently satisfied in your role, we welcome calls from benefits professionals looking to make future connections. Our specialist team at Carrington West has over 100 years of combined experience in this market. For more information, call Zubair at Carrington West on 02393 876065.
By applying for this position, you agree for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will only be shared with third-party clients for roles relevant to your application. You may withdraw consent at any time by contacting us.