Interview and investigate applicants and recipients to determine eligibility for use of social programs and agency resources. Duties include recording and evaluating personal and financial data obtained from individuals; initiating procedures to grant, modify, deny, or terminate eligibility for various aid programs; authorizing grant amounts; and preparing reports. These workers generally receive specialized training and assist social service caseworkers.

Interviews and investigates applicants for public assistance to gather information pertinent to their application. Selects and refers eligible applicants to public assistance or public housing agencies. Records and evaluates personal and financial data to determine initial or continuing eligibility. Initiates procedures to grant, modify, deny or terminate eligibility and grants for various assistance programs. Authorizes amounts of grants, money payments, food stamps, medical care, or other general assistance. Prepares regular and special reports, keeps records of assigned cases, and submits individual recommendations. Computes public housing rent in proportion to eligible tenant's income. Prepares and assists applicants in completion of routine intake and personnel forms. Conducts annual, interim, and special housing reviews and home visits to ensure conformance to regulations. Explains eligibility requirements, form completion requirements, community resources for financial assistance, housing opportunities, and tenant selection methods. Reviews training approval forms and payment vouchers for completeness and accuracy. Interprets and explains rules and regulations governing eligibility and grants, payment methods, and applicant's legal rights. Receives and records security deposits and advance rents from selected tenants.

English Language -- Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Speaking -- Talking to others to convey information effectively. Judgment and Decision Making -- Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. Active Listening -- Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Service Orientation -- Actively looking for ways to help people. Reading Comprehension -- Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. Writing -- Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Social Perceptiveness -- Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

Oral Expression -- The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. Oral Comprehension -- The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. Written Expression -- The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Written Comprehension -- The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Speech Clarity -- The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Number Facility -- The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Near Vision -- The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Documenting/Recording Information -- Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. Processing Information -- Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. Analyzing Data or Information -- Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. Getting Information -- Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. Assisting and Caring for Others -- Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients. Making Decisions and Solving Problems -- Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others -- Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Communicating with Persons Outside Organization -- Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. Monitoring and Controlling Resources -- Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People -- Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.