Benefits Assessment Officer – 4 Month Contract

About the Role

Waltham Forest Council is seeking an experienced Benefits Assessment Officer to join its Revenues and Benefits team.

This role is primarily home-based and requires an experienced assessor who can confidently process Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims while delivering accurate and timely decisions in accordance with legislation and local policies.

The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting vulnerable residents, managing complex caseloads, and ensuring the effective delivery of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support services.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess and process Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims.
  
• Calculate entitlement accurately and in line with current legislation and guidance.
  
• Assess and determine discretionary award applications.
  
• Process changes in circumstances and reviews.
  
• Make accurate and timely benefit decisions.
  
• Manage a varied caseload while meeting performance targets and service standards.
  
• Ensure claims are assessed correctly and within required timescales.
  
• Liaise with customers, colleagues, and partner organisations regarding benefit enquiries.
  
• Support vulnerable residents and provide high-quality customer service.
  
• Maintain accurate records and case notes.
  
• Ensure compliance with Housing Benefit regulations, Council Tax Reduction Schemes, and associated legislation.
  

Essential Requirements

• Significant experience assessing Housing Benefit claims.
  

• Significant experience assessing Council Tax Support claims.
  

• Experience processing:
  

  • New Claims
    
  • Changes in Circumstances
    
  • Reviews
    
  • Overpayments
    
  • Discretionary Awards
    

• Strong knowledge of Housing Benefit legislation and regulations.
  

• Experience working within a Local Authority Revenues and Benefits service.
  

• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload accurately and efficiently.
  

• Excellent attention to detail and decision-making skills.
  

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  

• Ability to work independently and meet performance targets.
  

Desirable Requirements

• Experience using Local Authority benefits systems.
  
• Knowledge of welfare benefits legislation and related support schemes.
  
• Experience supporting vulnerable customers.
  
• Experience working within a target-driven environment.
  

What's on Offer?

• £28.07 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• 4 Month Contract
  
• Primarily Home-Based
  
• 1 Day Per Week in the Office
  
• Location: Walthamstow, London
  
• Bi-weekly Pay
  
• Opportunity to join a busy and supportive Revenues & Benefits team.
  
• Varied caseload and meaningful work supporting local residents.
  
• Potential for contract extension.
  

Suitable for candidates with experience as a Benefits Assessment Officer, Housing Benefit Assessor, Revenues & Benefits Officer, Council Tax Support Officer, Welfare Benefits Officer, Benefits Officer, or Senior Benefits Assessor.