Benefit Eligibility Specialist

WCA: Wisconsin Counties Association; Clark (SD); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Clark County in Wisconsin seeks an Economic Support Specialist to serve as the primary contact for individuals seeking assistance through public benefit programs such as Food Share, Child Care, and Medical Assistance. You will screen applicants, determine eligibility, provide information and referrals, and prepare/maintain records for Medicaid and related services.

Responsibilities include interviewing clients (in person, by phone, mail, or online), entering data into state CARES systems,

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Arts or Science degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in a human service or a financial related field.
• If a person does not meet the educational requirements, a minimum of two years of experience performing the required essential duties and responsibilities is required.
• Must successfully complete DHS and WREA New Worker Training as required.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and own a reliable vehicle with automobile liability insurance that meets the minimum County coverage to perform off‑site responsibilities as assigned.
• Must be able to successfully pass caregiver and criminal background check.

Responsibilities

• Gather and verify client data regarding/determining eligibility for applicable benefits.
• Provide information, counseling and referrals regarding benefit programs.
• Refer and coordinate cases and referral for other services.
• Prepare and maintain records and reports.
• Provide direct application assistance for obtaining/maintaining applicable benefits.
• Obtain and maintain on going required training and certifications.
• Refer appropriate cases for front-end verification and possible fraud investigation.
• Economic Support Specialist (as assigned)
• Perform face‑to‑face, phone, mail in, on‑line interviews, and input data in CWW/CARES state database for eligibility determinations, reviews, changes, and case notes regarding programs and eligibility requirements.
• Gather and verify confidential client data relating to employment, investment, insurance, and tax issues, and inputs the data in the Wisconsin CARES Worker Web (CWW) system for eligibility determinations/redeterminations and changes. Request verifications as policy dictates.
• Long Term Care Medicaid (as assigned)
• Calculate patient liability, improper transfer of assets, authorize payment of guardianship‑related fees, and submit appropriate paperwork to State Estate Recovery Program.
• Determine eligibility for waiver service and cost share amounts in cooperation with case managers in the managed care organizations and the ADRC.
• Work closely with estate planners, Corporation Counsel and certify medical institution cases.
• Enter assets into the computer based AVS Asset Match State database.
• Have a complete understanding of the definition of divestment and understand how divestment applies to LTC Medicaid eligibility.
• Have an understanding of Undue Hardship in reference to divestment and spousal impoverishment.
• Have a complete understanding of the definition of spousal impoverishment and understand how spousal impoverishment applies to LTC Medicaid eligibility.
• Elderly/Blind and Disabled Medicaid (as assigned)
• Enter assets into the computer based AVS Asset Match State database.
• Have complete understanding of Medicaid deductibles.
• Ability to clearly communicate information to consumers on Medicaid deductibles and how Medicaid deductibles can be met with the appropriate medical expenses.
• Able to determine eligibility for the Medicaid Purchase Plan Program.
• Child Care (as assigned)
• Conduct home visits to inspect, certify, review and approve or deny applications for certification from county Child Care providers.
• Request verifications as policy dictates.
• Monitor certified county child care providers to ensure that applicable statute and administrative rule requirements are being met.
• Knowledge of referral processes for Youngstar, WI Shares, Western Dairyland Child Care Food Program, Central Wisconsin Early Education Resources and other programs relating to child care.
• Identify the importance of child care and certification to compile progressive ideas for promotion of child care.
• Compile information, initiate, organize and maintain program records and provider files and enters into the Wisconsin Child Care Regulatory System (WISCCRS).
• Enter the hourly rates for licensed providers in the State Child Care Statewide Administration (CSAW) computer system.
• Maintain professional working relationship with clients, customers, outside agencies, County departments, general public, and supervisors and co-workers.
• Provide clear, concise, and appropriate communication, both verbally and in writing to clients, families, outside agencies or the Courts as requested or required.
• Maintain professional appearance and demeanor.
• Conduct interactions with clients, outside agencies, and the public in a manner, which reflects positively on the Western Region for Economic Assistance consortium and the Clark County Department of Social Services.
• Follow Department and unit polices/procedures and adhere to the Clark County Employee Handbook and Administrative Manual.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor of Arts or Science degree

Job description

Clark County in Wisconsin seeks an Economic Support Specialist to serve as the primary contact for individuals seeking assistance through public benefit programs such as Food Share, Child Care, and Medical Assistance. You will screen applicants, determine eligibility, provide information and referrals, and prepare/maintain records for Medicaid and related services.

Responsibilities include interviewing clients (in person, by phone, mail, or online), entering data into state CARES systems,