Representative Payee & Benefits Specialist

Representative Payee & Benefits Specialist

Location: Sheboygan, WI (Hybrid/Remote work opportunities available)

Salary Range: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour, based on experience

Reports To: Representative Payee Account Manager

Position Overview

The Representative Payee & Benefits Specialist provides financial management, benefits coordination, and client support services for individuals receiving Social Security benefits through the Organizational Representative Payee Program. This position plays a vital role in helping clients maintain financial stability, meet basic living needs, and access community resources that support their overall well-being.

The Specialist works closely with clients, family members, case managers, housing providers, government agencies, and other service professionals to ensure funds are managed responsibly and in the client's best interest. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and a commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Management & Representative Payee Services

• Manage Social Security and SSI benefits on behalf of assigned clients in accordance with Social Security Administration regulations and Organizational Representative Payee requirements

• Review, verify, and approve client expenses and bills for payment

• Schedule and process client payments, including rent, utilities, personal needs allowances, and other approved expenditures

• Monitor client budgets and recommend adjustments when necessary

• Manage funds for non-routine or emergency client needs

• Work with creditors and service providers to establish payment arrangements when appropriate

• Maintain accurate financial records and documentation for all client transactions

• Assist with annual reporting and compliance requirements related to Representative Payee services

Benefits Coordination & Resource Navigation

• Assist clients with applications, renewals, and reviews for:

o Social Security benefits

o FoodShare

o Medicaid

o Energy Assistance

o Other public benefit programs

• Complete and submit Social Security reviews and disability update reports

• Notify appropriate agencies of changes in client income, address, or eligibility status

• Educate clients on available community resources and support services

• Assist with referrals and connections to beneficial community programs

Client Advocacy & Case Coordination

• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with clients and their support networks

• Coordinate services with case managers, social workers, housing providers, probation/parole agents, medical professionals, and other stakeholders

• Advocate for client needs while maintaining compliance with program requirements

• Communicate professionally and effectively with clients, families, and community partners

• Support clients in achieving financial stability and maintaining essential services

Documentation & Administrative Support

• Maintain detailed case notes and client records in accordance with agency policies

• Ensure timely and accurate completion of required reports and documentation

• Monitor deadlines and follow-up requirements for assigned cases

• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and agency initiatives

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Representative Payee Account Manager

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required

• Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Business, Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred

• Ability to be bonded

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment

• Commitment to serving diverse and vulnerable populations

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Required

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills

• Basic accounting and financial management knowledge

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)

• Strong organizational and time-management skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills

Preferred

• Experience working in nonprofit, human services, behavioral health, or social service settings

• Knowledge of Social Security, SSI, Medicaid, and public benefit programs

• Experience with case management or client management software

• Bilingual or multilingual communication skills

Work Environment

This position primarily works in an office environment with occasional travel within the community to support clients and collaborate with partner agencies. Hybrid work arrangements may be available based on agency needs and job performance.

Benefits

Advocacy Programs offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match available after one year of employment

• Ten (10) days of paid vacation annually

• Paid Agency holidays

• Paid sick leave

• Employer-paid Long-Term Disability (LTD) insurance (after one year of employment)

• Employer-paid Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance (after one year of employment)

• Employer-paid Group Life Insurance (GLI) (after one year of employment)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Advocacy Programs (Family Service Association, Inc.) is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Pay: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• 403(b) matching
• Paid time off
• Parental leave

Work Location: In person