SSI and SSDI: Maryland, Maryland Denial Guide

Introduction: A Maryland-Focused Guide to SSDI Denials and Appeals

If you live in Maryland and your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim was denied, you are not alone. SSDI is a federal program, but your case moves through Maryland-based offices and decision-makers at critical stages. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is headquartered in Woodlawn (Baltimore County), and Maryland residents commonly interact with local field offices (for filing and updates), Disability Determination Services (DDS) (for initial and reconsideration decisions), and Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) who conduct hearings. This guide explains your rights and the appeal process with a practical focus on Maryland claimants—whether you live in Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel, Frederick, Washington County, the Eastern Shore, or anywhere across the state.

SSDI provides income protection when a medically determinable impairment prevents substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. Even strong cases can be denied early for technical reasons, missing evidence, or misunderstandings about your work history or medical limitations. The good news: federal law provides a structured, multi-level appeal process with defined deadlines and clear claimant rights. Many claimants who keep appealing and present thorough medical and vocational evidence ultimately succeed.

This article is strictly factual and grounded in federal law and SSA regulations. It explains the four levels of administrative review and the path to federal court, cites key regulations, and highlights Maryland-specific logistics (local offices, DDS involvement, and where court review occurs). It also points you to authoritative SSA resources, including the online appeals portal and office locator. While the disability standard is the same nationwide, knowing how the process works for Maryland residents helps you act quickly and effectively after a denial.

To improve search visibility for this important topic, note the key phrase: SSDI denial appeal maryland maryland. If your claim was denied, do not panic. Read on for the steps you can take now to protect your rights and strengthen your record.

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

What SSDI Is—and How It Differs from SSI

SSDI is an insurance program funded by your payroll taxes. Eligibility depends on two broad factors: (1) whether you are insured—i.e., whether you have enough recent work credits under the Social Security Act—and (2) whether you are “disabled” under federal rules. Supplemental Security Income (SSI), by contrast, is needs-based and does not require work credits. Because many Maryland residents apply for both, it is common to see claims processed simultaneously. However, this guide focuses on SSDI, with references to SSI where relevant.

The Federal Definition of Disability

The Social Security Act defines disability for SSDI purposes as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. See 42 U.S.C. § 423(d). SSA applies a five-step sequential evaluation process to determine whether you are disabled. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 (SSDI); for SSI, see 20 C.F.R. § 416.920. This process examines: (1) whether you are performing substantial gainful activity (SGA); (2) whether you have a severe, medically determinable impairment; (3) whether your impairment meets or equals a listed impairment; (4) whether you can perform your past relevant work; and (5) whether you can adjust to other work considering your residual functional capacity (RFC), age, education, and work experience.

Your Core Rights in the SSDI Process

• Right to notice and reasons: SSA must give you written notice of decisions, including the reasons and your appeal rights. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.904.
• Right to appeal at multiple levels: The administrative review process includes reconsideration, an ALJ hearing, and Appeals Council review. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.900.
• Right to representation: You may appoint an attorney or qualified non-attorney representative. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705.
• Right to review and submit evidence: You can review your file and submit evidence. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512 (evidence submission) and 20 C.F.R. § 404.916, § 404.929 (review and hearing rights).
• Right to a de novo hearing: At the ALJ stage, your case is reviewed anew, and you may testify, present witnesses, and cross-examine vocational or medical experts. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.929, § 404.950.
• Right to object to video hearings: SSA can schedule video teleconference hearings, but you may object and request an in-person hearing under certain circumstances. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.936(d).

Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

Being denied does not mean your case is weak—often it means the file was not complete or the initial evaluation did not capture the full picture. These are common reasons for denials at the initial or reconsideration stages in Maryland and nationwide:

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If SSA finds you are working at SGA levels, your claim can be denied at step 1. SGA is an earnings-based threshold set by SSA and updated periodically, with different amounts for statutorily blind claimants. If you are near the SGA threshold, consult the latest guidance before applying or appealing.
• Insufficient medical evidence: SSA needs objective medical evidence from acceptable medical sources showing a medically determinable impairment and the functional limitations it causes. Missing treatment records, gaps in care, or absent diagnostic findings can lead to denials. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1513 (sources) and § 404.1512 (evidence requirements).
• Impairment duration: SSA must find that your impairment has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Shorter-duration impairments typically result in denials. See 42 U.S.C. § 423(d)(1)(A) and 20 C.F.R. § 404.1505.
• Doesn’t meet/equal a listing and RFC too high: If you don’t meet a Listing of Impairments at step 3, SSA evaluates your RFC and may conclude you can do past work (step 4) or other work (step 5). If the file lacks detailed functional evidence (e.g., lifting, standing, sitting, concentration limits), RFC findings may not reflect your true limitations.
• Non-compliance or failure to attend exams: Failing to attend a Consultative Examination (CE) or failing to follow prescribed treatment without good reason can cause a denial. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1517–§ 404.1519 (CEs) and § 404.1530 (failure to follow prescribed treatment).
• Technical eligibility issues: SSDI requires sufficient work credits and an insured status that has not expired (Date Last Insured). If you are no longer insured and can’t establish disability on or before your Date Last Insured, SSA may deny even if you are currently disabled.

Important: A denial notice typically explains the rationale. Use that explanation to target missing evidence and plan your appeal.

Federal Legal Protections & Regulations You Can Rely On

The SSDI process is governed by federal law and regulations that apply equally to Maryland claimants. Key authorities include:

• Administrative review process: 20 C.F.R. § 404.900 sets out the four-step review sequence (initial determination, reconsideration, hearing, Appeals Council) and the requirement that you proceed in order.
• Appeal deadlines and “good cause”: You generally have 60 days from receipt of a decision to appeal (SSA presumes you receive notices 5 days after the date on the letter unless you show otherwise). See 20 C.F.R. § 404.909 (reconsideration), § 404.933 (hearing request), § 404.968 (Appeals Council), and § 404.901 (receipt). You may request more time for “good cause.” See 20 C.F.R. § 404.911.
• Definition and evaluation of disability: 42 U.S.C. § 423(d) (statutory definition); 20 C.F.R. § 404.1505, § 404.1520 (five-step evaluation), and § 404.1545 (RFC).
• Evidence and medical sources: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512 (duty to submit evidence) and § 404.1513 (acceptable medical sources). SSA’s evaluation of medical opinions is addressed at 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520c.
• Vocational rules: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1560–404.1569a address past relevant work, transferable skills, age categories, education, and the Medical-Vocational Guidelines.
• Hearings and procedures: 20 C.F.R. § 404.929 et seq. cover hearing rights and procedures, including exhibits, witnesses, subpoenas (see § 404.950(d)), and the ALJ’s role.
• Representation and fees: You can appoint a representative (20 C.F.R. § 404.1705). SSA must approve fees (20 C.F.R. § 404.1720) and fees are generally limited by statute and regulation.
• Judicial review: After the Appeals Council, you have 60 days to file a civil action in federal court. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) and 20 C.F.R. § 422.210.

These authorities ensure nationwide consistency and give you enforceable rights. Citing them—accurately—can help focus your arguments and remind decision-makers of the applicable standards.

SSA: How the Disability Appeals Process WorkseCFR: 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart J (Administrative Review)SSA Field Office Locator (Find Maryland Offices)42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (Judicial Review of SSA Decisions)## Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial

1) Read Your Denial Letter Carefully

Your notice states the reasons for denial and how to appeal. Identify whether the issue is technical (insured status, SGA) or medical (insufficient evidence, RFC). Note the date on the letter—your 60-day appeal window runs from receipt (SSA presumes 5 days after the notice date unless you show otherwise). See 20 C.F.R. § 404.901, § 404.909.

2) File a Reconsideration Within 60 Days

The first appeal is “reconsideration.” You can file online or through your local Maryland SSA field office. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.909. If you miss the deadline, request an extension and explain “good cause” per 20 C.F.R. § 404.911. When filing, submit new medical evidence and clarify any errors in the initial decision (e.g., missing records, misunderstood job duties, or newly documented limitations).

3) Strengthen Your Medical Record

• Update treatment records: Request the most recent records from your Maryland providers and hospitals. Many Maryland claimants receive care from major systems such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center; be sure to include all relevant clinics and specialists.
• Document functional limits: Ask treating providers to describe your limitations (sitting/standing tolerance, lifting, reaching, use of hands, cognitive or mental limitations). Evidence should be supported by objective findings when possible. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520c (consideration of supportability and consistency).
• Respond to DDS requests: If Maryland DDS schedules a Consultative Examination (CE), attend as directed and bring medications and summaries. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1517–§ 404.1519.

4) Request an ALJ Hearing if Reconsideration Is Denied

If reconsideration is denied, request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge within 60 days of receipt. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.933. Hearings can be in person, by video, or by phone; you can object to video under certain conditions (20 C.F.R. § 404.936(d)). At the hearing, the ALJ will consider your testimony, medical evidence, and may hear from vocational and/or medical experts. This stage is often the best opportunity to fully explain your limitations.

5) Prepare for the Hearing

• Organize exhibits: Ensure your file includes all relevant medical records and vocational evidence, including job descriptions and how your conditions affect performance.
• Written brief: A concise pre-hearing brief can help the ALJ by identifying issues, summarizing evidence, and citing applicable regulations (e.g., 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 framework, RFC under § 404.1545).
• Testimony practice: Be ready to discuss daily activities, symptom severity, and work attempts. Consistency with the medical record is crucial.
• Vocational issues: Be prepared for hypothetical questions posed to the vocational expert about jobs in the national economy and how specific limitations would erode job bases (see 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1560–404.1569a).

6) Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request Appeals Council review within 60 days. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.968. The Appeals Council may deny review, remand, or issue a decision. Submit any new, material, and time-relevant evidence as permitted by regulation. If the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, that becomes the final decision of the Commissioner.

7) Federal Court Review

After the Appeals Council, you have 60 days to file a civil action. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) and 20 C.F.R. § 422.210. For Maryland residents, suits are typically filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The court reviews the administrative record to determine if the decision is supported by substantial evidence and whether correct legal standards were applied. While no new evidence is taken, legal arguments can focus on errors in evaluating medical opinions, RFC, credibility/symptom evaluation, vocational testimony, and procedural issues.

Deadlines and “Statute of Limitations” in SSDI Appeals

SSA uses short, strict timelines. Missing them can end your claim unless “good cause” is granted.

• Reconsideration: 60 days from receipt of the initial determination to request reconsideration. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.909.
• ALJ Hearing: 60 days from receipt of the reconsideration determination to request a hearing. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.933.
• Appeals Council: 60 days from receipt of the ALJ decision to request Appeals Council review. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.968.
• Federal Court: 60 days from receipt of the Appeals Council decision (or notice denying review) to file a civil action. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210.
• Receipt presumption: You are presumed to receive SSA notices 5 days after the date on the letter unless you show otherwise. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.901.
• Extensions: You may request more time for “good cause.” See 20 C.F.R. § 404.911.

Maryland-Specific Logistics: Offices, DDS, and Records

Local SSA Offices Serving Maryland Residents

While SSDI is federal, filing and many services occur through your local Maryland SSA field office or online. Use SSA’s official locator to find your nearest office by ZIP code:

SSA Field Office Locator (Maryland)Maryland has multiple field offices in and around larger population centers, including Baltimore, Silver Spring, Rockville, Towson, Hyattsville, Annapolis, Frederick, Hagerstown, and Salisbury. Office availability and services can vary, so check the locator for current hours and scheduling. SSA’s national phone lines are 800-772-1213 and TTY 800-325-0778.

SSA Headquarters and Hearing Logistics

SSA’s national headquarters is in Woodlawn (Baltimore County), Maryland. Hearing locations for Maryland claimants are assigned by SSA and stated in your Notice of Hearing; hearings may be held in person or by telephone or video. You can object to appearing by video in certain circumstances. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.936(d).

Maryland Disability Determination Services (DDS)

At the initial and reconsideration levels, claims by Maryland residents are evaluated by Maryland’s DDS, a state agency working with SSA to develop medical evidence and issue determinations under federal rules. DDS may request medical records, schedule Consultative Examinations, and assess your functional capacity under SSA standards. Respond promptly to DDS requests to avoid delays or denials.

Medical Records from Maryland Providers

Comprehensive medical documentation is the backbone of a successful SSDI appeal. Maryland claimants often receive care at major systems such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, as well as community hospitals and clinics statewide. Be sure to include primary care, specialists, urgent care, imaging centers, mental health providers, and physical/occupational therapy records. Clearly identify the timeframe relevant to your Date Last Insured.

Building a Strong Record for Maryland SSDI Appeals

• Tie symptoms to functional limits: It’s not enough to say you have a diagnosis; show how it limits work activities (e.g., lifting, standing, sitting, using hands, concentrating, interacting).
• Longitudinal evidence: SSA values consistent, longitudinal treatment records that show persistence of symptoms and response to treatment.
• Objective and subjective evidence: Combine objective findings (imaging, labs, clinical signs) with detailed symptom reports consistent with the record. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1529 (symptoms and pain).
• Treating source opinions: While SSA no longer gives “controlling weight,” well-supported and consistent opinions from your providers can be highly persuasive. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520c.
• Vocational detail: Provide accurate descriptions of past work—duties, exertion, skills—so SSA can correctly classify it. This matters at steps 4 and 5. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1560.
• Compliance and follow-up: Attend recommended evaluations, follow reasonable treatment, and document reasons for any non-adherence (e.g., side effects, access issues). See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1530.

Understanding SSI vs. SSDI in Maryland

Many Maryland claimants apply for both SSI and SSDI. While SSDI depends on insured status and past earnings, SSI is needs-based and considers income and resources. The medical standard of disability is the same for adults under 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520 and 416.920. If you are denied SSDI for lack of insured status but meet the medical standard and financial criteria, you may still qualify for SSI. Conversely, if you are insured for SSDI, a denial on medical grounds affects both programs unless the denial was for a technical reason unique to one program.

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals

While representation is not required, many claimants choose to work with an attorney or qualified representative—especially at the ALJ hearing and federal court stages. Representatives can help identify missing evidence, obtain targeted medical opinions, prepare a persuasive theory under the five-step framework (20 C.F.R. § 404.1520), and cross-examine vocational experts.

Representation and Fees

• Who may represent you: Attorneys and qualified non-attorney representatives may represent claimants. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705.
• Fee approval: SSA must approve fees, whether via fee agreement or fee petition. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1720 and 42 U.S.C. § 406(a). Fees are generally contingent on past-due benefits and are not payable if you do not win past-due benefits, subject to SSA approval rules.
• Maryland licensing context: Attorneys who provide legal services specific to Maryland law should be licensed in Maryland. For SSA administrative proceedings, an attorney representative must be in good standing and admitted in at least one U.S. jurisdiction. If your case proceeds to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, your attorney must be admitted to practice in that court.

If you are overwhelmed by medical records, vocational issues, or hearing preparation, consider consulting a representative early—ideally before filing your reconsideration or hearing request—so you can build the record strategically.

Local Resources & Next Steps for Maryland Claimants

How to Locate and Contact SSA in Maryland

Find your local office: Use the SSA Office Locator for Maryland by entering your ZIP code: SSA Field Office Locator (Maryland).- National phone numbers: 800-772-1213; TTY 800-325-0778.

• Online services: You can submit appeals, upload evidence, and track your case through your my Social Security account.

Where Maryland Cases Are Heard

SSDI hearings for Maryland residents are scheduled by SSA and listed in your Notice of Hearing. The decision will be mailed to you. If you seek judicial review after the Appeals Council, your case is typically filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g). Court review evaluates whether the ALJ decision applied the correct law and is supported by substantial evidence.

Practical Steps You Can Take Now

• Calendar every deadline: Add 60-day deadlines and a 5-day receipt buffer. If you need more time, request an extension and explain good cause (20 C.F.R. § 404.911).
• Request and organize records: Gather Maryland medical records from all providers and ensure the records cover your Date Last Insured period.
• Update SSA promptly: Notify SSA of address changes to avoid missed notices. Keep copies of everything you file.
• Consider a targeted medical opinion: Ask treating providers to explain specific work-related limitations with objective support.
• Prepare for testimony: Be ready to explain why you cannot sustain full-time work at SGA levels—how symptoms affect pace, persistence, attendance, and reliability.

Frequently Cited Authorities for Maryland SSDI Appeals

• Definition of disability: 42 U.S.C. § 423(d).
• Five-step framework: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520; (SSI counterpart 20 C.F.R. § 416.920).
• Administrative review: 20 C.F.R. § 404.900 et seq.
• Deadlines: 20 C.F.R. § 404.909, § 404.933, § 404.968; 20 C.F.R. § 404.901 (receipt); 20 C.F.R. § 404.911 (good cause).
• Evidence rules: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512, § 404.1513, § 404.1520c.
• RFC and vocational rules: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1545; §§ 404.1560–404.1569a.
• Hearings and subpoenas: 20 C.F.R. § 404.929–§ 404.950; § 404.950(d).
• Judicial review: 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210.

Answers to Common Questions from Maryland Claimants

Does it matter that I live in Maryland?

The disability standard is federal and the same nationwide. However, Maryland DDS develops evidence in your case at the early stages, and your hearing is scheduled in Maryland (or by phone/video). Judicial review is typically in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

Can I keep working while I appeal?

Working above SGA levels can lead to a denial or complicate your case. Limited or part-time work below SGA may be permissible, but it can still raise issues such as whether you can sustain full-time work. Consider consulting SSA’s SGA guidance and discuss risks with a representative.

What if I missed my deadline?

Request an extension in writing and explain “good cause” with specific facts (e.g., hospitalization, mail delays, language barrier). See 20 C.F.R. § 404.911. If SSA denies the extension, you may need to file a new application while exploring whether any prior filing date can be reopened under limited circumstances (see 20 C.F.R. § 404.987–§ 404.989).

Do I need a lawyer?

Not required, but many claimants benefit from representation—especially at the ALJ stage and beyond. Representatives can help marshal evidence, frame legal arguments, and cross-examine vocational experts. SSA must approve any fee. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1720.

How to File and Track Your Maryland SSDI Appeal

• Reconsideration: File within 60 days of receipt using SSA’s online portal or through your local office. Attach new medical records and detailed statements.
• ALJ Hearing: If denied again, file the hearing request within 60 days. Submit updated evidence as early as possible, ideally more than 5 business days before the hearing, in line with SSA timeliness rules for submissions.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ decision is unfavorable, request Appeals Council review within 60 days, identifying legal or factual errors and attaching any new, material, time-relevant evidence.
• Federal Court: File suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland within 60 days of the Appeals Council action. Consider engaging counsel admitted to that court.

Your Rights, Summarized

• You have the right to appeal through multiple levels. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.900.
• You have the right to representation. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705.
• You have the right to submit evidence and to a de novo hearing before an ALJ. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.929, § 404.1512.
• You have the right to object to video hearings in certain circumstances. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.936(d).
• You have the right to judicial review in federal court. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

Authoritative Resources

SSA: Disability Appeals OvervieweCFR: 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart JSSA Office Locator (Maryland)Social Security Act § 405(g)SSA Listing of Impairments (Blue Book)

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information for Maryland, Maryland residents and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations change, and individual facts matter. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Maryland attorney or qualified representative.

If your SSDI claim was denied, call Louis Law Group at 833-657-4812 for a free case evaluation and claim review.