Jessica Olson

For my fellowship project, I was part of the team responsible for developing BeneFactor, a cross-platform web app that enables social security disability (SSD) applicants to take control of their initial application and, if needed, their reconsideration and appeal. The app would empower users - many of whom may not have any access to knowledgeable assistance with the SSD application process - to know their rights and understand what the critical components of a successful application, reconsideration, or appeal are. BeneFactor could assist users with gathering evidence and submitting forms independently or with the help of an advocate and to seamlessly submit an application, reconsideration, or appeal to SSA. BeneFactor was set up to integrate with the Legal Navigator Portal in Alaska to help connect SSD applicants to BeneFactor.