About Us
Prior to creating The Benefit ACE, Ryan provided community health and wellness programs for seniors. In 2016, he began offering personal training for seniors to have a greater impact on their health through one-on-one relationships. After a decline in his own health and a surgery in 2019, he was no longer able to work. Once a very active individual, he became wheelchair-bound in 2020. This transition made the barriers to healthcare and necessities—which he had previously taken for granted—starkly clear.
While applying for public benefits to survive, Ryan experienced the social and structural barriers that prevent disabled individuals from thriving. Even though he clearly met the guidelines, he faced multiple denials. Through this process, he felt the same helplessness and anxiety many of his clients feel today.
After successfully appealing and winning three separate denial decisions (SSI/SSDI, Medicaid LTSS, and Medicaid out-of-network coverage), Ryan decided to master the intricacies of these programs to help others.
Since late 2024, he has provided grounded guidance to Virginians, helping them navigate complex policies with confidence and clarity.
There should be Benefit ACEs everywhere!
We frequently hear that our service is unique and greatly needed. Are we the only non-law firm benefits advocacy provider for SSI/SSDI, Medicare, and Medicaid in Virginia? Maybe. But we know that our founder, Ryan Duffy, experienced firsthand the maze of bureaucracy and policy in the journey to getting benefits. It wasn't fun, but he was good at it. Then one day, he thought to himself, "I think I would enjoy helping folks get the benefits they deserve!" And The Benefit ACE was born.