Elderly Benefit Specialist

This position is responsible for the State Elder Benefits Specialist (EBS) Program; to assist persons age 60+ in gaining access to public and private benefits, entitlements and legal rights; to promote and preserve the autonomy, dignity, independence and financial security of older persons; and to provide responsive and courteous service to County residents.

Provides assistance through information, counseling, and referrals related to individual eligibility for public benefits and services, health care financing, insurance, housing and other financial and consumer concerns for persons age 60+. Explains medical entitlements, insurance, non-covered health costs, income support, community-based services, housing and utilities, debt collection practices and financial exploitation. Consults regularly with the EBS Program attorneys to determine appropriate interpretation of law or regulation and appropriate action to assist customers. Counsels in areas permitted by law for non-attorneys on issues involving rights, benefits or entitlements. Counsels on choices (advantages, risks, and responsibilities) related to services and programs that may address individual needs. Refers and coordinates judicial access by offering advocacy in matters which require review, waiver, reconsideration and/or hearing before an administrative law judge. Under the supervision of the legal assistance provider, represents clients in appeals or disputes, including but not limited to, denials of eligibility or benefits for Medicaid, Medicare (Parts A, B, C and D), Food Share, Energy Assistance, denial of health insurance claims, and problems with Social Security or SSI overpayments. Prepares factual evidence and briefs for appeal of denied benefits. Complies with federal and state reporting requirements applicable to the Elder Benefit Specialist Program. Maintains detailed records and generates reports as directed by the Federal, State and County governments, the legal backup provider, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR) and the Program Manager. Maintains LaserFiche computer files and record systems to provide easy access to records and information; maintain/destroy records and reports as required per County policies. Provides direct application assistance to clients for obtaining and maintaining all public programs and private health insurance benefits. Advocates on behalf of older persons and their caregivers. Empowers individuals to advocate on their own behalf. Provides public education and/or training on issues affecting the rights, benefits or entitlements of older persons. Develops informational material for the media, organizations and the general public as requested. May meet with a customer in the office, in the customer’s home or in a public or community setting. Coordinates Volunteer Tax Aide Program through AARP when/if funding and volunteers are available. Utilizes and reports on SPAP, SHIP, MIPPA grant funding. Maintains reporting requirements for state required time reporting. Makes referrals to other agencies and services when appropriate. Provides regional coverage as needed. Attends and successfully completes initial and ongoing training as required. Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in a health or human services related field or a license to practice as a registered nurse in Wisconsin pursuant to s.441.06 Stats.
• Must have a minimum of one (1) year of relevant professional work experience with the aging, elderly, or persons with disabilities.
• Must successfully pass caregiver and criminal background check.

• Ability to understand and have a strong commitment to serving the needs of the aging population.
• Knowledge of public benefit programs, including a knowledge of federal and state tax forms, social security, Medicare, and other benefits.
• Knowledge of community resources and services available to the aging population.
• Ability to relate warmly and sensitively to the elderly population at all socio-economic levels and a willingness to call on people in their homes.
• Knowledge of administrative policies and procedures of the County.
• Knowledge of current office practices and procedures and knowledge of the operation of standard office equipment and software.
• Ability to establish and maintain accurate records of assigned activities and operations.
• Ability to interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence; Federal, State, and local regulations.
• Skill in organizational and time management to prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of work product while adapting to constant changes in priority.
• Ability to perform detailed work accurately and independently in compliance with stringent time limits with minimal direction and supervision.
• Ability to think quickly, maintain self-control, and adapt to stressful situations.
• Knowledge of computer software including word processing, spreadsheet and database applications consistent for this position.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations required of this position.
• Ability to understand and effectively carry out verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to apply sound judgment and discretion in performing duties, resolving problems and interpreting policies and regulations.
• Ability to communicate detailed and often sensitive information effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to handle sensitive interpersonal situations calmly and tactfully.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with individuals within and outside the organization.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding business-related files, reports and conversations, within the provision of open records laws.
• Ability to work the allocated hours of the position and respond after hours as needed.

Barron County values the health and wellbeing of our employees and offers a very competitive benefit package prioritizing work-life balance and along with stable employment and supportive work environment!
* Wisconsin Retirement System (6.9% Employer match; 6.9% Employee pre-tax contribution - Higher rates for Protective/Law Enforcement)
* Paid leaves upon hire (104 hrs vacation; 11 paid holidays; 8 hrs of sick leave per mo)
* Health insurance with option to enroll in a Health Savings Account ($50/mo-single plan/ $100/mo-family plan). Effective 1st of the month following 30 days of employment.Non-Embedded in-network Deductible of $2,000/Single & $4,000/Family. Deductible must be met before insurance applies. Out-of-pocket max: $3,500S-$7,000F. Prescription drug savings program offering zero costs for eligible prescription drugs. Optionto sell up to 96 hrs Sick Leave and/or Vacation into HSA during open enrollment.
* Dental insurance
* Life insurance (County pays $5/mo towards Basic plan)
* If working night shift - receive an additional $0.75 per hour
* Flexible spending account
* Deferred Compensation Programs
* Employee Achievement Program
* Paid Parental leave
* Potential for telework opportunities (varies by department/position)
* Whole Life Insurance plan
* Eligibility for Student Loan Repayment program throughPublic Service Loan Forgiveness(PSLF)
* Recognition Program
* Annual Training Day & Lunch
* Annual Employee Milestone Recognition Lunch
* On-site Blood Drives (paid 1 hour to donate blood)
* 15% Verizon Wireless cell-phone discount
* On-site food truck vendors during summer months
* Ed-Vest College Savings plan
* Supportive work environment and culture
* Opportunities for growth and advancement
* Meaningful and impactful work for the betterment of our community

Closing Date/Time: 11/17/2024 11:00 PM Central

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• Barron County

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