SOAR Benefits Specialist FFC

$49,920 - $56,160/Yr

New Reach - Bridgeport, CT

Full-time

Bridgeport, CT

Social Assistance

About the position

The SOAR Benefits Specialist at New Reach plays a crucial role in assisting individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness in applying for Social Security disability income benefits. This position involves community outreach, case management, and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure clients receive the necessary support and resources for their applications. The specialist will work directly with clients in diverse settings, including emergency shelters, to facilitate a smooth application process and improve the chances of approval for benefits.

Responsibilities

• Complete and pass the SOAR online course and certification process.
• Work with referral sources and community partners to identify applicants through outreach.
• Carry a caseload of at least 10 clients applying for benefits, submitting 2-3 applications monthly.
• Maintain fidelity to the SOAR model when assisting with Social Security applications.
• Become a SOAR appointed representative for clients' disability claims.
• Assist with setting protective filing dates.
• Write SOAR Medical Summary Reports for individual applications.
• Obtain co-signatures on Medical Summary Reports from qualified providers.
• Complete SOAR quality reviews prior to submitting applications.
• Conduct interviews with individuals to gather information for SSI/SSDI applications.
• Gather medical records and other information for SSI/SSDI applications.
• Accompany individuals to appointments at the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Coordinate visits to medical doctors and specialists to obtain evidence for applications.
• Assist the team with administrative tasks as needed.
• Maintain positive communication with referring agents, case managers, and service providers.
• Assist clients in identifying unaddressed needs related to insurance and healthcare services.
• Encourage integrated services for treatment of medical, mental health, and substance use disorders.
• Maintain ongoing client files and document services in the HMIS database and SOAR OAT system.

Requirements

• BA/BS in Human Services or related field, OR 2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness with serious mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorder AND an associate's degree or recovery support specialist certification.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including data analysis and report writing.
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong organizational skills, prioritization skills, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated advocacy skills, creativity, and persistence.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation with proof of insurance.

Nice-to-haves

• Prior training in SOAR.
• Ongoing training and education in mental illness, substance use, and/or homelessness.
• Experience with medical records, benefits applications, and eligibility determination.
• Bilingual/Bicultural in Spanish, both written and oral.

Benefits

• 401K
• Generous PTO and Benefits
• Paid Holidays
• Paternity Leave
• Maternity Leave
• Parking
• Summer Hours