About Us
About Clauson
Disability
We are a national advocacy organization dedicated to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) representation. Headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, we serve claimants across all 50 states as a specialized alternative to general practices handling disability claims among other matters. Every representative on our team works Social Security disability exclusively, providing continuous familiarity with the SSA system.
Who we are
"We were founded with a single focus: representing individuals whose applications for SSDI and SSI benefits move through the SSA administrative process. We do not handle other areas of law or advocacy. Social Security disability represents the entirety of our practice, and every representative on our team operates within the SSA system on a continuous basis."
Vaughn S. Clauson – Representative & Co-Founder | 26+ years of experience
What we do
We provide representation from the initial application through the hearing stage of the appeals process. Our services include the preparation and filing of applications, the collection of medical evidence from treating providers, communication with SSA field offices and state Disability Determination Services, the filing of appeals within the required 60-day deadlines, and representation at hearings before Administrative Law Judges (ALJs).
Federal law authorizes non-attorney representatives to appear on behalf of claimants at every administrative level. Our team of advocates, disability representatives, EDPNA (Eligible for Direct Payment Non-Attorney) representation, and attorneys who appear at hearings covers the full range of authorized representation. Cases advancing to federal court following Appeals Council review require licensed attorney representation, and we maintain referral relationships with attorneys who handle those appeals.
Why claimants
choose an advocate
SSA authorizes both attorneys and non-attorney representatives to represent claimants at every administrative level of a disability case, holds both to the same rules of conduct, and regulates both under the same fee structure. For the substantial majority of claims resolved at the administrative level, either role is fully authorized to provide the required representation.
Our differentiation is our exclusive focus. Continuous exposure to SSA procedural changes and specialized expertise in the medical evidence standards that decide contested cases distinguish us from general practices that handle disability claims alongside other matters.
Claimants commonly cite the following factors:
No upfront cost
Fees apply only upon claim approval and are paid directly by SSA out of any back pay award.
Specialized focus
Every representative works Social Security disability exclusively.
Nationwide service
Representation is available in all 50 states, managed remotely.
Transparent scope
Cases requiring federal court representation are referred to licensed attorneys.
Our founder
and our team
We were founded by Vaughn Clauson as a dedicated advocacy organization for Social Security disability claimants. Our team combines the roles that disability representation requires at scale: trained disability advocates and representatives who prepare cases day-to-day, EDPNA (Eligible for Direct Payment Non-Attorney) representation as the federal credential SSA specifically established for non-attorneys who represent claimants, attorneys who appear at hearings when the case benefits from that setup, and case assistants who maintain claim progress within SSA's procedural timelines.
Every member of our team is trained to the federal standards SSA applies to representatives on Social Security disability matters. Ongoing continuing education keeps us current with SSA policy updates, revisions to the Listing of Impairments, and changes to state DDS procedures.
Vaughn S. Clauson
Representative, Co-Founder
Education/Work Background:
I earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy, a Master’s in Public Affairs from Princeton University, and a Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina School of Law. I have over 25 years of experience as an attorney and was among the first attorneys certified by the North Carolina State Bar as a Social Security Disability Law Specialist in 2006. I handle Social Security Disability cases nationwide at the administrative level, with a primary focus on complex cases. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I have dedicated my career to representing disabled individuals. This field allows me to combine legal training and life experience to advocate for people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Navigating the disability system can be overwhelming, and I believe clients deserve not only skilled representation, but also understanding, patience, and clear guidance.
Fun Fact:
I enjoy playing guitar and spending time outdoors. I am also a proud father and grandfather.
Elizabeth
Senior Representative
Education/Work Background:
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill- Bachelor of Arts English and Bachelor of Arts History, Wake Forest University School of Law- Juris Doctor. 11 years practicing Social Security Disability. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose to work in the area of Social Security Disability law because of how frustrating the system is. For the average person, the system is slow and confusing. For a person with a disability, it can be downright daunting! I went to law school to learn how to understand and use the law to help people and there is no one more deserving of help than people struggling with disabling medical conditions! It is tremendously rewarding to take some of the worry off our clients’ shoulders.
Fun Fact:
I would love to someday visit all 50 states and all 7 continents.
Ari
Senior Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor's of Art in English from Florida International University in 2010. I received my Juris Doctorate from Campbell University Adrian Wiggins School of Law in 2016. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose a career in the legal field to help people. The legal system can be overwhelming and complicated for people. This area of the law enables me to be able to help people understand and navigate the complexities of the social security system, while also being compassionate and empathetic. I truly feel like I am making a difference in the lives of our clients.
Fun Fact:
I was named after the record label, Arista Records.
Anyia
Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor's of Science from Central State University in 2021. I received my Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2024. After graduating, I practiced Family Law for about a year, then I transitioned into Social Security Law. I am licensed in the state of Indiana as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose Social Security Law because I wanted to advocate for vulnerable clients and make a meaningful impact on their lives by helping them secure disability benefits. Being able to zealously advocate for clients when they're at their lowest gives me great satisfaction.
Fun Fact:
I've traveled to 32 states so far, and I plan on visiting the last 16 within the next few years.
Cortnei
Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor of Art in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2022. I received my Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2025. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose this area of law because I wanted to use my knowledge to support people during a very challenging time in their lives and help them understand the complexities of this area of law. I approach my work with a personable and approachable style, which allows me to meet clients where they are and provide the guidance they need in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.
Fun Fact:
I am the 2025 National Champion of the 'ABA Client Counseling Competition', where I had the opportunity to compete in the International Client Consultation Competition in Glasgow, Scotland that same year.
Sean
Representative
Education/Work Background:
Received my Bachelor's Degree from Hampden-Sydney College in 2020 with Magna Cum Laude Honors. Received my J.D. from Campbell University School of Law in 2024 with cum laude honors. After graduating law school, I worked in Real Estate Law for about a year, before moving on to Social Security Disability Law and The Clauson Disability. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
Practicing Social Security Disability Law involves working every day to make a real difference in the lives of clients who need advocacy and support, and I enjoy working towards that goal.
Fun Fact:
I love playing soccer and long distance running.
Benjamin V. Clauson
Co‑Founder
Education/Work Background:
I earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Minnesota and have worked in the Social Security disability field for over 17 years in various roles. Today, I focus on business operations, including technology, staffing, workflow, marketing, office efficiency, and finance. I also manage a marketing and staffing agency serving other advocacy companies. I am an Accredited Disability Representative with the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR) and am eligible for direct payment as a non-attorney (EDPNA).
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I am proud to work alongside Clauson Disability’s staff and support our clients behind the scenes. Building systems, technology, and processes that help our team serve clients more effectively is deeply rewarding. This work allows me to contribute to a mission-driven organization dedicated to helping people through difficult times, even though my role is primarily focused on business operations.
Fun Fact:
When not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife, son, and daughter, and I love traveling whenever I get the chance.
Vaughn S. Clauson
Representative, Co-F...
Elizabeth
Senior Representativ...
Ari
Senior Representativ...
Anyia
Representative
Cortnei
Representative
Sean
Representative
Benjamin V. Clauson
Co‑Founder
Vaughn S. Clauson
Representative, Co-Founder
Education/Work Background:
I earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy, a Master’s in Public Affairs from Princeton University, and a Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina School of Law. I have over 25 years of experience as an attorney and was among the first attorneys certified by the North Carolina State Bar as a Social Security Disability Law Specialist in 2006. I handle Social Security Disability cases nationwide at the administrative level, with a primary focus on complex cases. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I have dedicated my career to representing disabled individuals. This field allows me to combine legal training and life experience to advocate for people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Navigating the disability system can be overwhelming, and I believe clients deserve not only skilled representation, but also understanding, patience, and clear guidance.
Fun Fact:
I enjoy playing guitar and spending time outdoors. I am also a proud father and grandfather.
Elizabeth
Senior Representative
Education/Work Background:
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill- Bachelor of Arts English and Bachelor of Arts History, Wake Forest University School of Law- Juris Doctor. 11 years practicing Social Security Disability. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose to work in the area of Social Security Disability law because of how frustrating the system is. For the average person, the system is slow and confusing. For a person with a disability, it can be downright daunting! I went to law school to learn how to understand and use the law to help people and there is no one more deserving of help than people struggling with disabling medical conditions! It is tremendously rewarding to take some of the worry off our clients’ shoulders.
Fun Fact:
I would love to someday visit all 50 states and all 7 continents.
Ari
Senior Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor's of Art in English from Florida International University in 2010. I received my Juris Doctorate from Campbell University Adrian Wiggins School of Law in 2016. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose a career in the legal field to help people. The legal system can be overwhelming and complicated for people. This area of the law enables me to be able to help people understand and navigate the complexities of the social security system, while also being compassionate and empathetic. I truly feel like I am making a difference in the lives of our clients.
Fun Fact:
I was named after the record label, Arista Records.
Anyia
Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor's of Science from Central State University in 2021. I received my Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2024. After graduating, I practiced Family Law for about a year, then I transitioned into Social Security Law. I am licensed in the state of Indiana as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose Social Security Law because I wanted to advocate for vulnerable clients and make a meaningful impact on their lives by helping them secure disability benefits. Being able to zealously advocate for clients when they're at their lowest gives me great satisfaction.
Fun Fact:
I've traveled to 32 states so far, and I plan on visiting the last 16 within the next few years.
Cortnei
Representative
Education/Work Background:
I received a Bachelor of Art in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2022. I received my Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2025. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I chose this area of law because I wanted to use my knowledge to support people during a very challenging time in their lives and help them understand the complexities of this area of law. I approach my work with a personable and approachable style, which allows me to meet clients where they are and provide the guidance they need in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.
Fun Fact:
I am the 2025 National Champion of the 'ABA Client Counseling Competition', where I had the opportunity to compete in the International Client Consultation Competition in Glasgow, Scotland that same year.
Sean
Representative
Education/Work Background:
Received my Bachelor's Degree from Hampden-Sydney College in 2020 with Magna Cum Laude Honors. Received my J.D. from Campbell University School of Law in 2024 with cum laude honors. After graduating law school, I worked in Real Estate Law for about a year, before moving on to Social Security Disability Law and The Clauson Disability. I am licensed in the state of NC as an attorney, but handle Social Security disability matters nationwide.
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
Practicing Social Security Disability Law involves working every day to make a real difference in the lives of clients who need advocacy and support, and I enjoy working towards that goal.
Fun Fact:
I love playing soccer and long distance running.
Benjamin V. Clauson
Co‑Founder
Education/Work Background:
I earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Minnesota and have worked in the Social Security disability field for over 17 years in various roles. Today, I focus on business operations, including technology, staffing, workflow, marketing, office efficiency, and finance. I also manage a marketing and staffing agency serving other advocacy companies. I am an Accredited Disability Representative with the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR) and am eligible for direct payment as a non-attorney (EDPNA).
Why I Choose Social Security Disability Law:
I am proud to work alongside Clauson Disability’s staff and support our clients behind the scenes. Building systems, technology, and processes that help our team serve clients more effectively is deeply rewarding. This work allows me to contribute to a mission-driven organization dedicated to helping people through difficult times, even though my role is primarily focused on business operations.
Fun Fact:
When not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife, son, and daughter, and I love traveling whenever I get the chance.
Our North Carolina roots,
national reach
We serve clients nationwide from our Durham, North Carolina base. Because Social Security disability is administered as a federal program under uniform regulations, the same procedural rules apply whether a hearing is scheduled in Raleigh, Phoenix, or Philadelphia. Our location in Durham reflects our origin market, not the limit of our practice.
North Carolina remains our home market, and we maintain substantial familiarity with the state's four SSA hearing offices in Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and Raleigh. That regional depth informs our hearing preparation across all 50 states, as the procedural patterns we observe in North Carolina reflect the same federal framework applied at every SSA hearing office nationally.
For North Carolina claimants seeking state-specific details, see disability help in North Carolina. For claimants in other states, see our full directory of states served.
How we work:
no upfront cost
We operate on a contingency-fee basis regulated by SSA. Representation begins at no charge, and fees apply only upon claim approval. Our fee is capped at 25% of the back pay award or $9,200, whichever is lower, and is paid by SSA directly out of the back pay award. If a claim is not approved, no fee is owed.
The contingency structure covers the four commitments we make to every client:
- $0 upfront fees. No retainer, no consultation charge.
- No fees unless you win. If the claim is not approved, representation costs nothing.
- Serving claimants in all 50 states. Location does not affect access.
- Thousands of disability claimants served. Volume-based experience across SSDI and SSI.
Questions About Our Organization
No. Clauson Disability is a national advocacy organization. We do not provide legal advice, legal services, or legal representation. Our team consists of trained disability representatives who are authorized by SSA to help claimants at every administrative stage of the disability process, including attorneys on staff who appear at hearings on behalf of clients. When legal advice is required for a specific matter beyond the scope of Social Security disability representation, we refer clients to licensed attorneys.
No. There is no cost to begin a case with us. We operate on a contingency basis: our fee equals 25% of the back pay award if the claim is approved, capped at $9,200 by SSA. If the claim is not approved, no fee is owed. All fees are paid by SSA directly from the back pay award.
Yes. We serve clients in all 50 states. Social Security disability operates as a federal program with uniform rules, and most of our work is completed remotely through phone, email, and secure document submission. State of residence has no effect on access to our representation.
Non-attorney representatives are authorized to perform every function an attorney performs at the administrative level of a Social Security disability claim: filing applications, collecting medical evidence, communicating with SSA and state DDS offices, filing appeals, and representing claimants at ALJ hearings. Federal court, which becomes relevant only after Appeals Council review, is the sole stage requiring licensed attorney representation. We refer those cases to attorneys who handle federal disability appeals.
Two factors distinguish us: Social Security disability is our exclusive area of practice, and we operate with transparent scope regarding both non-attorney representation capabilities and the stages requiring licensed attorney involvement.
START A FREE CASE EVALUATION
Are you currently receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?
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Are you currently represented by a disability attorney or advocate?
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Is your current age between 50 and 62?
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Great news! Based on your answers, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. Complete the form below for your FREE case evaluation.
Clauson Disability LLC is a national advocacy organization. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice, legal services, or legal representation. If your case requires federal court review, we refer you to a licensed attorney. Every disability case is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
