Tax and Benefits Specialist

3 Month Contract- Start Immediately, extension based on budget availability

Work Location: SORCe, occasionally Journey Church Day Space]

Hours: Generally Monday – Friday 8:30-4:30 with a one-hour lunch break, with occasional evenings or weekends as required.

• Weekly offsite outreach work is expected.
• Working in a fast-paced crisis environment requires de-escalation skills.
• Universal precautions knowledge and ability to complete specialized training applicable to service delivery.
• Reports to the Coordinated Entry Program Lead - Operations and Initiatives.
• Works closely with all members of the SORCe collaborative.

Who We Are

For over 50 years, Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta by providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.

We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees are valued, experience a sense of belonging, and are confident being their most authentic selves. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and members of equity-deserving groups. We value all the ways that our community is diverse – in identity, experience and perspective.

Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) delivers the Coordinated Entry Program (CEP) at SORCe providing intake, assessment, and referral services that connect participants to housing and other essential support. CEP staff focus on system navigation and service delivery, including applications, referrals, and follow-up.

What to Expect

The Taxation & Benefits Specialist plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals and families by ensuring access to critical financial support. Specializing in income tax completion and benefits navigation, this role leverages expertise from the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) to help individuals secure entitled benefits. Working within a Financial Empowerment Program and a wraparound support model, the Specialist collaborates with other services to connect individuals at risk of or experiencing homelessness to resources such as Income Support, pensions, financial coaching, and more.

What You’ll Do

This list highlights core responsibilities and is not exhaustive. Additional related duties may arise over time and will be discussed and supported by your supervisor.

This role combines income tax services and financial empowerment support within a collaborative, client-centered environment**.**

Income Tax Specialist (80%)

• Provide tax filing services through CVITP, ensuring access to benefits (e.g., GST credit, Canada Child Benefit, provincial supports) in alignment with CRA requirements.
• Support individuals with complex or multi-year tax filings to maximize benefit entitlements.
• Assist participants in accessing financial support, including Income Support, pensions (e.g., Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement), and disability benefits.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of tax regulations and benefit programs.
• Build rapport, assess needs, and connect participants to services within SORCe and the broader community.
• Maintain accurate documentation and participant data in HMIS, ensuring consent and data integrity.

Financial Empowerment Program Support (20%)

• Collaborate with financial coaches and program staff to integrate tax services into financial empowerment programming.
• Work within a wraparound service model alongside housing, health, and employment teams.
• Contribute to the Community of Practice and support ongoing program development.
• Support the training and mentoring of practicum students, as required.
• Participate in partnership and collaborative activities within SORCe and with community partners.

What You Bring

Qualifications & Experience

• Education or experience in finance, accounting, or tax preparation (CVITP or equivalent preferred).
• Strong knowledge of tax filing systems and government benefit programs.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations using a trauma-informed, person-centered approach.
• Strong communicationand interpersonal skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex information.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain accurate records.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to clearly and compassionately explain complex financial information; adaptable communication to suit the recipient, with an engaging presentation style.
• Organizational and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail, high accuracy, and strong time management and prioritization skills; ability to effectively use Microsoft Office and other software programs.
• Ability to deliver material to accommodate different learning styles and preferences, with flexibility and ability to think on your feet to manage technology issues, unexpected changes, and last-minute changes.
• Universal precautions knowledge and ability to complete specialized training for service delivery to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health, or addictions.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter through ADP Career centre.

Distress Centre is an inclusive workplace. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process, please contacthr@distresscentre.com – we’re happy to support you. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.