NY Connects Benefits Counselor - Bronx

Position: NY Connects Benefits Counselor - Bronx

About CIDNY:

The Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York (CIDNY) is a leading organization serving and representing people with disabilities throughout New York City. CIDNY's mission is to remove barriers to the full integration of people with disabilities. We help individuals gain the skills and access the services they need to live independently in the community, while advocating for fair and effective policies that improve quality of life.

CIDNY is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position Summary:

The NY Connects Program provides Information and Assistance and Person-Centered Options Counseling for individuals seeking access to Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS). The Benefits Counselor assists consumers through information and referral services, intake and assessment, benefits eligibility screening, application assistance, and ongoing follow-up. Consumers may also develop person-centered independent living plans that identify goals, action steps, supports, and desired outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide information, assistance, and referrals to consumers regarding benefits, services, and community resources.
• Conduct intake interviews and gather information necessary to assess consumer needs.
• Complete comprehensive benefits eligibility review, including explaining eligibility requirements, assisting with applications and renewals, and providing support with appeals.
• Provide Person-Centered Options Counseling to help consumers understand and evaluate available long-term services and supports.
• Assist consumers with benefits applications, recertifications, and referrals to appropriate programs and services.
• Collaborate with consumers to develop person-centered goals and support plans and review plans periodically to assess progress and make adjustments as needed.
• Facilitate transitions from institutional settings to the community by providing information, referrals, and coordination with relevant service providers.
• Ensure all consumer information, service activities, and provider details are accurately documented in CIDNY’s database and the required contracted provider database in a timely manner.
• Maintain complete and accurate consumer files in accordance with agency policies and funding requirements.
• Contribute to the NY Connects Resource Directory by identifying and sharing updated resource information obtained through consumer service activities.
• Maintain consumer confidentiality and ensure compliance with HIPAA, CIDNY policies, and all applicable privacy and data protection requirements.
• Attend agency trainings, staff meetings, unit meetings, and other required agency activities.
• Perform other program-related duties as assigned.

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and at least two (2) years of experience providing benefits counseling; or
• Associate’s degree and at least five (5) years of experience providing benefits counseling.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and internet-based research.
• Ability to learn and utilize new software applications and database systems.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining professionalism and collaboration with consumers, colleagues, and community partners.
• Demonstrated ability to work respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Understanding of, or experience working with, disability-related issues and services.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual proficiency.

Work Location and Travel Requirements:

This is a hybrid position requiring three (3) days per week in the office.The position is based in CIDNY’s Bronx office and serves consumers throughout the Bronx and other assigned areas as needed.

Equipment Used:

Computer/Laptop, Phone, Printer/Coper

Salary:

Up to $55,000 annually

We conform to all laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, genetic information and testing, family and medical leave, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

Supervision:

Reports to: Borough Manager

How to apply:

Please send a thoughtful cover letter and resume to Paige Munson, Director of NY Connects. Please use the job title as email header.

Paid Time Off

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Holidays

Bilingual preferred