Accounting Specialist

We are looking for an Accounting Specialist to join a non-profit organization in Syracuse, New York in a contract-to-permanent role. This position supports the financial well-being of individuals in agency programs by coordinating benefit-related financial administration, maintaining accurate records, and helping ensure continued access to essential resources. The ideal candidate brings strong accounting skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work closely with participants, families, banks, and government agencies in a service-focused environment.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate applications and supporting documentation to establish the agency as the authorized financial representative for eligible benefit recipients.
• Administer participant funds in accordance with program rules and applicable federal, state, and public assistance regulations.
• Prepare, review, and submit required benefit paperwork, including income updates, renewals, and other time-sensitive forms, with proper approvals.
• Track incoming participant mail and benefit notices, respond to correspondence, and organize appointments involving recipients and agency staff.
• Assist with annual eligibility reviews for individuals whose personal finances are managed through the organization.
• Investigate payment, coverage, or eligibility concerns and work with relevant parties to resolve issues before benefits are interrupted.
• Set up and maintain participant financial accounts, confirm income activity, and conduct periodic audits of personal funds under agency oversight.
• Manage financial onboarding for new residents and ensure timely closure or transfer of financial responsibilities when participants leave services.
• Perform monthly reconciliations for participant and agency accounts while monitoring balances for compliance with required limits.
• Act as a point of contact for benefit and financial matters with public agencies, banks, families, and participants, including occasional site visits for meetings and fund reviews.