Susan McDonnell
Waterbury
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Social Services Investigator-Claims Unit
Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)
Hartford
04.2023 - 03.2024
- Processing of Fraud referrals to establish the validity of the claim against the client. if DSS has determined that the client has violated program rules for SNAP, TFA, or SAGA Cash.
- Review and investigate the details of the claim to determine whether the Department (DSS) needs to take action to recoup money benefits that the client received benefits for which they were, in fact, not eligible.
- The referral document is processed and a mailing is generated to the client notifying them of the specific program violation and the collection notice for the funds owed back to the Department.
Social Services Fraud Investigator
Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)
Hartford
03.2022 - 04.2023
- Investigating Fraud referrals from within DSS Eligibility Services, and from external reports of fraud from the Fraud Hotline.
- When Fraud Referrals were received, an investigation was conducted by using all available sources, including criminal background checks, employment history, civil court records,and the client's social media and online presence.
- Conducted surprise home visits to verify the client's address and household composition, and to conduct a face-to-face interview with the client. If the client was found to have committed a program violation, the specific nature of the violation was noted, and the fraud referral would be updated with the results of the investigation. The client is notified by mail to advise them of the violation and any consequences such as funds owed back to the Department, or suspension of benefits. if the client received benefits for which they were not entitled in an amount over $2000.00, a subpoena for their arrest was issued.
Eligibility Services Worker
DSS
Hartford
01.2010 - 03.2022
- Conducting telephone interviews with applicants and recipients as part of the eligibility determination process for initial applications and renewals.
- Using extensive and up to date knowledge of all state and local regulations regarding public assistance programs, as well as having in depth knowledge of the Agency's policies and procedures.
- Evaluating, researching and verifying the applicants' written and verbal statements in order to determine whether they meet the State and Federal Guidelines for program eligibility.
- Provided in person service in the DSS Service Center.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, CT01-1984
Skills
- Eligibility assessment and case documentation
- Evidence collection and background checks
- Effective communication skills
- Time management
Timeline
Social Services Investigator-Claims Unit
Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)
04.2023 - 03.2024
Social Services Fraud Investigator
Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)
03.2022 - 04.2023
Eligibility Services Worker
DSS
01.2010 - 03.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
Western Connecticut State University
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