2. To liaise with outside bodies, e.g. Pension Service, Jobcentre Plus, Rent Service, Housing Associations and other Council departments.

3. To deal with queries regarding claims in writing, on the telephone and at the counter.

4. To produce standard letters and compile non-routine correspondence as appropriate.

5. To input computer records relating to claims for housing benefit and council tax benefit, and to keep the records up-to-date.

6. To assess eligible housing costs, referring cases to the Rent Service where appropriate.

7. To request and process evidence and information needed to support claims in accordance with the Verification Framework. This will include evidence of identity, residency, National Insurance numbers, household composition, capital, earnings, income and rent.

8. To assess eligibility of the claimant to receive Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, and to determine the amount of entitlement.

9. To notify the claimant and/or landlords of decisions made regarding claims for Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Benefit.

10. To re-assess claims for benefit following changes of circumstances.

11. To check and distribute computer documents and refer any discrepancies to the Head of Housing Benefits.

12. To calculate overpayments and underpayments of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit and Weekly Incorrect Benefit amounts.

13. To make payments on account where appropriate.

14. To refer cases of suspected fraud to the Senior Benefits Enquiry Officer.

15. To undertake special projects relating to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit as and when necessary.

16. To undertake general office duties including filing, photocopying, etc.

17. To monitor benefit periods and invite claimant’s to re-apply when necessary.

18. To receive and check figures on computer print-outs prior to the payment of Giro cheques, crossed cheques and BACS payments, and deal without of date and returned cheques as required.

19. To read relevant circulars and documents in order to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit legislation.

20. To maintain an awareness of and comply with the Data Protection Act.

21. To maintain a working knowledge of other welfare benefits in order to advise claimants.

22. To participate in the Council’s performance Appraisal and Development Scheme (PADS)

23. To support the corporate work of the Council by undertaking work within other divisions at the discretion of the employees Divisional Manager

If you feel you match this criteria please send your CV FAO Natalie Ward. Please note if you do not here from us within 1 week of your application you have been unsuccessful in this role.