Job Description

Benefits Officer

• Job Type: Temporary- Until end of Sept 2026
• Location: Stevenage, SG1
• Pay Rate: 14.36 - 17.85 per hour
• Working Hours: 09:00 - 17:00
• Hours per Week: 37
• Work Pattern: Monday to Friday

Job Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Benefits Officer to support the delivery of high-quality financial and housing support services for a local authority business in Stevenage. This role plays a key part in ensuring clients receive accurate and timely benefit assessments and payments, helping to promote financial stability and housing security.

The position will initially be office-based, with potential for hybrid working arrangements subject to performance review.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Administration

• Carry out thorough benefit checks to ensure individuals are receiving their full entitlement.
• Support the completion and submission of benefit applications, including Housing Benefit and Universal Credit.
• Process changes in circumstances and update claims accordingly.

Housing & Rent Monitoring

• Review and monitor rent accounts to ensure payments are accurate and up to date.
• Identify arrears or discrepancies and escalate issues where appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to resolve payment-related queries.

Housing Benefit Support

• Check, submit, and manage Housing Benefit claims accurately and efficiently.
• Gather and verify all necessary supporting documentation.
• Liaise with local authorities and relevant departments to track claim progress.

Renewals & Case Management

• Monitor benefit renewal deadlines and ensure timely reapplications.
• Maintain accurate records of claims, applications, and outcomes.
• Provide proactive support to prevent interruptions in benefit payments.

Customer & Stakeholder Liaison

• Act as a key point of contact for clients regarding benefit queries.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with external bodies such as the DWP and local councils.
• Provide guidance and support to clients navigating benefit systems.

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure all work is carried out in line with current legislation, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records across internal systems.
• Support reporting requirements and performance monitoring where needed.

Key Skills & Experience

• Strong administrative and organisational skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple caseloads and deadlines
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of Housing Benefit and/or Universal Credit (desirable)
• Experience in a local authority, housing, or benefits-related environment (desirable)

If this is of interest, apply today!

Please be aware this advert will remain open until the vacancy has been filled. Interviews will take place throughout this period, therefore we encourage you to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Tate is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Tate is committed to promoting equal opportunities. To ensure that every candidate has the best experience with us, we encourage you to let us know if there are any adjustments we can make during the application or interview process. Your comfort and accessibility are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Additionally, we value and respect your individuality, and we invite you to share your preferred pronouns in your application.