Tammy Smith

Career Break –

• Family Care & Household Management (15 years)
• Dedicated 15 years to raising children and managing a household full-time.
• During this period, developed and strengthened transferable skills including organization, budgeting, scheduling, conflict resolution, multitasking, and problem-solving.
• Now prepared to reenter the workforce with renewed focus, bringing both prior professional experience and strong life skills that add value to any role.

Arizona State Department of Economic Security Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)

• Managed a caseload of individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring access to appropriate services and supports in alignment with state and federal guidelines.
• Conducted intake assessments, service planning, and ongoing evaluations to determine individual needs and eligibility for programs.
• Developed and monitored Individual Support Plans (ISPs) in collaboration with members, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Coordinated services such as therapies, medical care, employment supports, and community resources to promote independence and quality of life.
• Advocated for members’ rights and needs while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and agency policies.
• Maintained accurate case documentation, progress notes, and reports in a timely and confidential manner.
• Facilitated meetings with families, providers, and support teams to monitor outcomes and address barriers to care.
• Assisted with training new case managers
• Assisted with being acting supervisor when needed

Value Options Behavioral Health Benefit Specialist

• Assisted members, families, and providers in understanding behavioral health benefit coverage, eligibility, and program requirements.
• Processed and verified benefit applications, authorizations, and claims to ensure accuracy and compliance with policy guidelines.
• Worked and Assisted Clients with applying for all benefits they maybe eligible for.
• Meet with clients in their environment to initiate the application processes. Home, Jail and or state hospital
• Collaborated with clinical teams, case managers, and providers to coordinate benefits and resolve service or billing issues.
• Maintained detailed case records, documentation, and confidential member information in accordance.

Arizona Department of Economics Security Fraud Investigator

• Conducted investigations into suspected fraud, waste, and abuse involving public assistance programs, including unemployment insurance, nutrition, medical, and cash benefits.
• Collected, analyzed, and verified financial, employment, and personal records to determine the validity of claims.
• Interviewed claimants, employers, and witnesses to gather statements and supporting documentation.
• Prepared detailed investigative reports and recommended appropriate actions, including administrative sanctions or referrals for prosecution.
• Collaborated with law enforcement, legal staff, and other government agencies to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Testified in administrative hearings and court proceedings as needed to support investigative findings.

Arizona State Department of Economics Security Jobs Program

• Assisted program participants in overcoming barriers to employment by providing individualized case management, job readiness training, and career counseling.
• Conducted employability assessments to identify skills, work history, and support service needs.
• Developed employment plans and monitored progress toward meeting program goals and self-sufficiency benchmarks.
• Partnered with community organizations, training providers, and employers to connect clients with job opportunities, education, and supportive services.
• Facilitated workshops on resume writing, interview preparation, workplace professionalism, and job search strategies.
• Maintained detailed case records and ensured compliance with state and federal program requirements

Department of Economic Security – Family Assistance Program

Program Specialist / Eligibility Specialist

• Assisted individuals and families in applying for and maintaining eligibility for state and federal assistance programs, including food, medical, and cash benefits.
• Conducted interviews to gather financial, employment, and household information to determine program eligibility in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Educated clients on program requirements, rights, and responsibilities while providing referrals to community resources for additional support services.
• Maintained accurate case records, processed documentation, and ensured compliance with agency policies and confidentiality standards.
• Collaborated with colleagues, community agencies, and service providers to support client self-sufficiency and long-term stability.