Advocate

Benefits Advocate Corp., operating as Advocate, is a pioneering technology company dedicated to simplifying the process for Americans to access government disability benefits. Founded in 2023 by Emilie Poteat, PhD, the company was born from her personal and challenging experience navigating the Social Security Disability Insurance system for her father. This firsthand encounter with the complexities and inefficiencies of the existing framework inspired the creation of a platform designed to alleviate the burden on individuals and families during vulnerable times. Advocate's mission is to leverage cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, to make the application process for programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits faster, more accessible, and more transparent for the millions of Americans who are eligible.

The company's innovative platform is engineered to streamline what is often an arduous and lengthy procedure. By employing proprietary algorithms and a data-driven approach, Advocate assists users in preparing and submitting applications that are comprehensive, accurate, and compliant with all government regulations. This not only increases the likelihood of a successful claim but also significantly reduces the waiting time for applicants. The system is designed to work in tandem with expert human case managers, combining the efficiency of technology with the empathy and nuanced understanding of human professionals. Advocate has garnered significant support from leaders in both the technology and government sectors, including backing from prominent venture capital firms like Lerer Hippeau and Khosla Ventures. The advisory board includes distinguished figures such as a former Social Security Commissioner and a former VA Secretary, underscoring the company's commitment to transforming the landscape of government benefits access through expertise and innovation.