Job Description

Responsibilities

One of a team undertaking complex financial assessments, recovering overpaid benefits and the prevention and detection of fraud in accordance with Government Regulation and guidance and in full compliance with Council guidelines, policies and procedures.
Be proactive in maintaining up to date knowledge of regulations and guidance relating to all types of benefits and contribution, Information Security and Data Protection
Transfer of knowledge and job skills to new and existing members of staff including any changes in regulation, systems and work familiarity.
Be familiar with systems, processes, reports, etc. used within the section and report any problems to the relevant team or person for resolution.
Evaluate and be responsible for any review to the entitlement /contribution for Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support including more complex calculations in respect of self-employed, students, etc
Make decisions on Disputes under DMA Regulations or Harrow’s Council Tax Support scheme
Ensure the council reduces creation of overpayments, maximises overpayment recovery and government subsidy through prompt and accurate assessment of new claims, interventions, cancellations, change of circumstances, data matches, returned cheques and correct classification of overpayments

Requirements

Extensive current knowledge and understanding of all relevant benefits legislation and the councils Council Tax Support policy, principles and procedures
Must have experience assessing the full range of Housing Benefit from LCTRs, CICs, all types of New claims, correspondence and Disputes. Preferably including DHP
Must have considerable experience in assessing and handling Temporary and Supported accommodation claims.
Experience working with councils or housing associations IS ESSENTIAL
Substantial practical experience of Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit/Support assessment work in a back office environment
Experience of dealing effectively and courteously with members of the public, especially irate claimants
Experience of using a PC to update records and extract information. Willingness & ability to use and develop further new skills to download data and to manipulate it into usable formats

Contract

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Financial Assessments Officer - Housing Benefits

Job Description