Disability Benefit Specialist

job description

At Crawford, we believe a claim is more than just a number—it is a person in need of restoration. We are a global leader in claims management, operating in over 70 countries as “One Crawford,” a team united by compassion, innovation, and a mission to support our communities during their most challenging times. We offer a remote-first culture where employees are empowered to act, grow, and lead, ensuring that every person who turns to us receives the clarity and results they deserve.

About the Role

As a Disability Benefit Specialist, you will manage a dedicated caseload of Short-Term and Long-Term Disability claims, serving as a critical advocate for employees navigating their recovery. This fully remote role requires a blend of clinical insight and contractual expertise to evaluate eligibility and facilitate seamless transitions between benefit types. You will collaborate with medical and vocational experts to design effective return-to-work strategies, delivering superior customer service through timely, empathetic, and data-driven decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Manages assigned caseload of disability claims for Short Term/Long Term Disability.

• Communicates with claimants, employers, and various medical professionals to gather information regarding eligibility, benefit authorization, and ongoing management of STD or LTD benefits.

• Applies the appropriate contractual provisions; case management resources; and claim processes to ensure eligibility requirements and liability decisions are accurate.

• Provides superior customer service by rendering benefit determinations within expected timeframes and quickly responding to all inquiries.

• Demonstrates ability to independently manage disability claim and apply clinical guidance as provided on more complex claims.

• Verifies on-going disability and participates in claim reviews with specialized resources including nurses, physicians, vocational rehabilitation, etc. to discuss return to work opportunities as appropriate.

• Uses disability claim system to manage and authorize payment on claims while meeting all service, timeframe, and productions standards

• Ensures a timely and appropriately coordinated transition of claims from STD to LTD, providing a well -managed and seamless claims experience to claimants.

• Analyzes claims activity and prepares reports for clients/carriers and management as needed

• Becomes familiar with specialized client instructions and performance guarantee standards for any assigned clients. Serves as a resource for trainees and Claims processors as needed.

• Effectively works together in a team setting.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.

• 2 + years of STD/LTD claims adjudication

• Experienced in the TPA or self-administration services is desired

• Experience with FMLA/State leave claims is a plus

• Aptitude for learning medical terminology and conditions, as well as interpreting procedures and regulations

• Ability to work independently while assimilating various technical resources

• Computer knowledge in excel, word, web based systems, etc

• Good verbal and written communication skills

• Knowledge of ERISA regulations, required offsets and deductions, disability duration and Social Security procedures

• Demonstrated ability to gather and analyze information, determine a course of action and implement the selected course of action.

• Strong ability to identify, analyze and solve problems.

• Effective interpersonal skills capable of dealing with external sources and all levels of employees.

Joining the Crawford family means access to a total compensation plan designed for your holistic well-being, featuring performance-based incentives and comprehensive training programs for career progression. We foster an entrepreneurial spirit and a culture of respect, making us a top choice for the next generation of claims leaders. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and an E-Verify participant, dedicated to building a team that reflects the diverse global fabric of the customers we serve.