SSI & SSDI Appeals Guide — Maryland, Maryland

Introduction: A Practical SSDI Denial Guide for Maryland, Maryland

If you live in Maryland, Maryland and your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application was denied, you are not alone—and you are not out of options. Many first-time SSDI claims are denied for technical or evidentiary reasons that can be addressed on appeal. This guide explains your rights, the federal rules that govern SSDI, and the step-by-step appeals process used by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It also includes Maryland-focused context and resources so you can take action before critical deadlines expire.

SSDI is a federal program, so the same substantive standards apply in every state. That said, where you live matters for practical reasons: your local SSA field office, the hearing office that schedules your Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing, the U.S. District Court where a civil action may be filed, and the medical providers who treat you are all local to Maryland. SSA’s national headquarters is in Woodlawn (Baltimore County), Maryland, and residents statewide can access services online, by phone, and through field offices located across the state.

Appeals are time-sensitive. In most cases, you have 60 days to appeal to the next level after a denial or unfavorable decision, plus a presumption that you received the notice five days after the date on the letter, unless you can show otherwise. These timing and mailing presumptions are set by federal regulations, not by state law. This article cites key rules so you can verify each step yourself.

To help searchers in the state find this resource, we note the primary search phrase some people use: SSDI denial appeal maryland maryland. No matter how you search, the goal is the same—getting reliable, federal-law-based guidance tailored to where you live. This guide provides just that, with a slight tilt toward protecting claimants’ rights while staying firmly grounded in the Social Security Act, the Code of Federal Regulations, and SSA’s official procedures.

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

SSDI is for workers who paid Social Security taxes and can no longer engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The federal definition of disability for SSDI is set by statute at 42 U.S.C. § 423(d) and implemented in regulations at 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1505 and 404.1520. In plain terms, you must show you cannot perform your past work or adjust to other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy given your medical limitations, age, education, and work experience.

Key rights you have under federal law include:

• The right to written notice and reasons for denial. SSA must explain the basis for its initial decision, reconsideration determination, and any ALJ decision.
• The right to appeal within set federal timelines. Generally 60 days from receipt of the decision at each stage, with a five-day mailing presumption. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.901 (receipt presumption), 404.909(a)(1) (reconsideration), 404.933(b) (ALJ hearing request), and 404.968(a) (Appeals Council review).
• The right to representation. You may have an attorney or eligible non-attorney representative at any stage. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705 (who may be a representative) and §§ 404.1720–404.1730 (fee rules and approval process). Representative fees are generally subject to SSA approval and are commonly structured as a percentage of past-due benefits up to an SSA-approved cap, under 42 U.S.C. § 406(a).
• The right to submit evidence and be heard. You can submit medical and vocational evidence and provide testimony. Evidence rules and timelines—including the ALJ “five-day rule”—appear in 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512 (evidence), 404.935 (prehearing evidence timelines), and 404.949 (hearing procedures).
• The right to federal court review. After exhausting administrative remedies, you may file a civil action in federal district court under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) and 20 C.F.R. § 422.210.

Who qualifies under federal law?

SSA uses a five-step sequential evaluation to decide disability claims. The steps consider whether you are working at SGA, whether you have a severe impairment, whether you meet or equal a listed impairment, whether you can perform your past relevant work, and whether you can do other work in the national economy given your residual functional capacity (RFC), age, education, and work experience. The five-step framework is codified at 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520.

Some conditions may meet a “Listing,” which can simplify the analysis if criteria are precisely matched or medically equaled. These Listings are in 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1, often called the “Blue Book.” Evidence must be objective—medical signs, laboratory findings, and longitudinal treatment records are critical.

SSI versus SSDI in Maryland

While this guide focuses on SSDI, many Maryland residents apply for both SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources and uses similar medical standards, but different non-medical financial criteria, under 20 C.F.R. Part 416. If you receive a denial on a claim that includes both SSDI and SSI, appeal rights typically run concurrently, and the same 60-day deadlines generally apply. Always review your notice to confirm which program(s) were decided and which appeal form to use.

Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

Understanding why SSA denied your claim helps you target evidence and arguments on appeal. Common reasons include:

• Insufficient medical evidence. SSA requires objective medical evidence from acceptable medical sources. Gaps in treatment, inconsistent records, or lack of function-by-function assessments often lead to denials. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512 (your duty to submit evidence and the types SSA considers).
• Working above SGA. If you are working and earning above the SGA level, SSA may find you not disabled at Step 1. SGA thresholds are published by SSA and change over time.
• Does not meet or equal a Listing. Many denials cite a failure to meet or medically equal a Listing. You can still win at Steps 4 and 5 by showing your RFC rules out all past work and other available work.
• Ability to perform past relevant work (PRW). At Step 4, SSA may find you can still do your past jobs as actually or generally performed. Strengthening your RFC evidence and clarifying job demands can be decisive.
• Ability to adjust to other work. At Step 5, SSA may rely on vocational evidence to conclude there are other jobs you can perform. Challenging the vocational assumptions and documenting non-exertional limits (e.g., pain, fatigue, mental limitations) can rebut this.
• Technical issues with insured status or onset date. SSDI requires you to be “insured” through your date last insured (DLI). If SSA believes your disability began after your DLI, the claim may be denied. You can address this with earlier medical evidence or opinions clarifying onset.
• Non-compliance, failure to cooperate, or missed exams. Missing consultative examinations or failing to return forms can lead to unfavorable determinations. If you had good cause, explain and document it during appeal.

Many denials are fixable with better documentation, clarifying functional limitations, obtaining treating-source opinions, and complying with evidence submission timelines. On appeal, you can (and should) submit new and material evidence, especially evidence that addresses the specific reasons for denial.

Federal Legal Protections & Regulations

SSDI is governed by the Social Security Act and the Code of Federal Regulations. The following rules are central to denials and appeals:

• Definition of disability: 42 U.S.C. § 423(d); 20 C.F.R. § 404.1505.
• Five-step sequential evaluation: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520.
• Appeals process overview: 20 C.F.R. § 404.900 et seq.
• Reconsideration deadline: 20 C.F.R. § 404.909(a)(1) (60 days from receipt).
• ALJ hearing request deadline: 20 C.F.R. § 404.933(b) (60 days from receipt).
• Appeals Council request deadline: 20 C.F.R. § 404.968(a) (60 days from receipt).
• Civil action deadline: 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c) (60 days from notice).
• Receipt presumption: 20 C.F.R. § 404.901 (notice presumed received five days after the date on the notice, unless evidence shows otherwise).
• Evidence obligations: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512 (submit all evidence known to you that relates to whether you are disabled).
• ALJ evidence timing rule: 20 C.F.R. § 404.935 (submit evidence at least five business days before the hearing unless an exception applies).
• Representation and fees: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1705, 404.1720–404.1730; 42 U.S.C. § 406(a).

The five-step sequential evaluation, summarized

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If you engage in SGA, you are generally not disabled.
• Step 2: Severe impairment. You must have a medically determinable impairment that significantly limits basic work activities for at least 12 months.
• Step 3: Listings. If your impairment meets or medically equals a Listing in 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1, you are disabled.
• Step 4: Past relevant work (PRW). If you can still do PRW, you are not disabled.
• Step 5: Other work. The burden shifts to SSA to show other work exists in significant numbers that you can do given your RFC, age, education, and work experience.

Evidence and procedural protections

Federal rules require SSA to develop the record but also require you to submit all evidence you have that relates to disability. Treating-source opinions, longitudinal treatment notes, objective tests, and detailed descriptions of functional limits can be decisive. For hearings, the five-day evidence rule at 20 C.F.R. § 404.935 means you should submit evidence at least five business days before the hearing date, unless an exception (e.g., circumstances beyond your control) applies. If you miss a deadline, explain the reason and cite the regulation.

Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial

SSA uses a four-level administrative process, followed by federal court. In Maryland, Maryland, you will use the same national forms and online portals as claimants in other states, and you will interact with local SSA field offices and hearing offices for some steps.

1) Request Reconsideration (most initial denials)

Deadline: 60 days from the date you receive the denial letter, with a five-day mailing presumption (20 C.F.R. §§ 404.909(a)(1), 404.901). File as early as possible to avoid disputes about timing.

How to file: You can appeal online, by mail, or at your local SSA office. The online portal is the fastest and gives you a confirmation. Attach new evidence or identify sources for SSA to request records.

Goal: Correct errors and fill evidentiary gaps noted in the denial. If SSA said your condition was “not severe,” emphasize objective findings and function-by-function limits. If SSA said you could do other work, address vocational assumptions and non-exertional limits (pain, mental symptoms, off-task time, absenteeism).

What to submit: Updated medical records; treating provider opinions about your specific work-related limits; medication side effects; results of recent tests; statements from former employers or family documenting functional limits; and any new diagnoses or complications since the initial application.

2) Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Deadline: 60 days from receipt of the reconsideration denial (20 C.F.R. § 404.933(b)).

What to expect: Hearings may be by phone, video, or in person at a hearing office that serves Maryland. The ALJ will take sworn testimony from you (and witnesses, if any) and may call a vocational expert (VE) or medical expert (ME). Hearings are non-adversarial; there is no opposing counsel cross-examining you. Still, careful preparation is essential.

Evidence and timing: Submit evidence at least five business days before the hearing (20 C.F.R. § 404.935). If you obtain crucial records late, request that the ALJ accept them by explaining good cause under the regulation.

Strategy tips:

• Practice testimony that links symptoms to specific functional limits, such as how long you can sit, stand, walk, lift, concentrate, or persist during a typical workday.
• Ask treating providers for medical source statements addressing exertional limits (e.g., lifting, standing) and non-exertional limits (e.g., off-task time, need for unscheduled breaks).
• Be prepared to question VE job numbers and assumptions. If the VE cites jobs inconsistent with your RFC, articulate why.

3) Request Review by the Appeals Council (AC)

Deadline: 60 days from receipt of the ALJ decision (20 C.F.R. § 404.968(a)).

Scope of review: The Appeals Council reviews whether the ALJ committed legal error, whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence, and whether new, material, and time-relevant evidence warrants remand. While the regulation detailing Appeals Council evidence standards appears in 20 C.F.R. § 404.970, focus your request on specific legal or factual errors and attach evidence that reasonably could change the outcome and relates to the period on or before the ALJ decision date.

Outcomes: The AC can deny review (leaving the ALJ decision in place), grant review and issue a decision, or remand to an ALJ for a new hearing with instructions.

4) File a Civil Action in Federal Court

Deadline: 60 days from the date you receive the Appeals Council’s denial of review or decision (42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c)).

Where to file: Generally, you file in the U.S. District Court where you reside. Maryland residents typically file in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. You must serve the complaint according to federal rules and SSA procedures. The court reviews the administrative record to decide if SSA’s decision is supported by substantial evidence and free of legal error. New evidence is generally not considered at this stage unless it fits narrow criteria.

Relief: Courts may affirm, reverse, or remand the case to SSA. Many successful federal cases result in remand for a new hearing with instructions to correct errors.

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals

You have the right to represent yourself, but many claimants benefit from experienced representation, especially at the ALJ and Appeals Council stages. Representatives understand the regulations, can develop the medical and vocational record, and will track evidence and deadlines. Under 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1705 and 404.1720–404.1730, representatives must follow SSA’s rules, and fees generally require SSA approval.

For Maryland, Maryland residents, it also helps to consult a professional who understands local medical systems, typical vocational issues in the state economy, and how hearings are scheduled for claimants living in Maryland. While SSDI is federal, local familiarity often improves case development and hearing preparation.

Attorneys practicing law in Maryland must be admitted to the Maryland bar and remain in good standing under the authority of the Supreme Court of Maryland. Whether you choose an attorney or an eligible non-attorney representative, confirm experience with SSDI appeals, familiarity with 20 C.F.R. Part 404, and a clear plan to develop your evidence before applicable deadlines.

Local Resources & Next Steps in Maryland, Maryland

SSA field offices and services in Maryland: Maryland has multiple SSA field offices serving residents across the state, including the Baltimore area, the Washington, D.C. suburbs (e.g., Montgomery and Prince George’s counties), and western and eastern Maryland communities. To locate your nearest office, verify current hours, or make an appointment, use SSA’s official office locator. You can also complete many tasks online, including appeals, without visiting a field office.

Hearing logistics: If you request an ALJ hearing, SSA will schedule it by phone, video, or in person at a hearing office that serves Maryland residents. You will receive a Notice of Hearing detailing the date, time, modality, and issues. To accommodate medical or transportation needs, promptly notify SSA if you require changes or disability-related accommodations.

Medical care and documentation: Maryland is home to several major medical systems and specialty clinics. Regardless of provider, your goal is consistent treatment and comprehensive documentation. Ask your providers to describe your functional limits (sitting, standing, walking, lifting, reaching, concentrating, interacting with others, staying on task, and attendance) in work-related terms. Keep copies of treatment notes, diagnostic tests, and medication lists, and share them promptly during appeals.

Work history and vocational evidence: Prepare a detailed work history for the past 15 years, including job titles, dates, duties, exertional demands, and skills. This information is crucial at Steps 4 and 5 of the sequential evaluation and helps vocational experts and ALJs understand the true demands of your past work versus what you can do now.

Stay on top of deadlines: The federal appeals timelines apply to Maryland residents just as they do nationwide. Mark the 60-day deadlines for reconsideration, ALJ hearing requests, Appeals Council review, and civil actions. Remember the five-day presumption of receipt unless you can prove earlier or later delivery (20 C.F.R. § 404.901).

Frequently Used Federal Authorities and How to Verify Them

SSA’s Official Appeals Guidance — Plain-language overview of appeal levels and how to file online.20 C.F.R. § 404.900 et seq. (Administrative Review Process) — Regulations governing the SSDI appeals process.42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (Judicial Review) — Statute authorizing federal court review after administrative appeals.SSA Office Locator (Find Your Maryland Field Office) — Official tool to locate office addresses and hours.SSA Blue Book (Listings of Impairments) — Medical criteria used to evaluate Listings at Step 3.

Detailed Timeline Overview for Maryland, Maryland Claimants

• Initial Application: File online, by phone, or in person. Submit complete medical and vocational information. If denied, note the date on the notice and calendar deadlines immediately.
• Reconsideration (60 days): File Form SSA-561 or appeal online. Add new evidence and correct misunderstandings. Cite 20 C.F.R. § 404.909(a)(1) for the deadline and 20 C.F.R. § 404.901 for the receipt presumption.
• ALJ Hearing (60 days): Request hearing with Form HA-501 or online. Prepare testimony, obtain medical source statements, and submit evidence at least five business days before the hearing per 20 C.F.R. § 404.935.
• Appeals Council (60 days): File request for review with Form HA-520 or online. Focus on legal errors, substantial evidence issues, and any new, material, time-relevant evidence under 20 C.F.R. § 404.970.
• Federal Court (60 days): File a civil action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) and 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c).

How to Strengthen Your SSDI Appeal Record

• Clarify onset and duration: If your date last insured (DLI) is at issue, obtain medical opinions and records that document symptoms and limitations prior to your DLI.
• Focus on function, not just diagnosis: Explain how symptoms affect sustained work activities—sitting, standing, lifting, using hands, concentrating, interacting, pace, and persistence.
• Document adverse effects of treatment: Side effects, frequent appointments, or procedures that would require absences can be highly relevant to employability.
• Address activities of daily living (ADLs): If SSA relied on ADLs to deny your claim, clarify the pace, frequency, assistance required, and post-activity recovery time, all of which may differ from competitive employment demands.
• Use consistent narratives: Ensure your statements to providers, SSA forms, and testimony align. Inconsistencies can be used to discount credibility or RFC limitations.

Practical Maryland Considerations

SSA presence in Maryland: SSA’s national headquarters is in Woodlawn, Maryland, and the state is served by multiple SSA field offices. While the presence of SSA headquarters does not change your legal standards, Maryland residents often find it convenient to use the online systems and then rely on nearby field offices for identity verification or document drop-offs when needed. Always check the Office Locator for current hours and services.

Medical networks: Maryland residents frequently receive specialty care in and around Baltimore and the Washington, D.C. metro area. For SSDI purposes, what matters is that your records are complete, your treating providers are responsive to requests, and medical source statements address functional limits relevant to work capacity. If records are spread across multiple systems, consolidate them early in the appeal to avoid last-minute issues with the five-day evidence rule.

Transportation and accommodations: If a disability affects your ability to travel to a hearing, notify SSA promptly. You may be able to appear by phone or video, and SSA can arrange reasonable accommodations as appropriate.

Key Do’s and Don’ts After a Denial

• Do calendar your 60-day appeal deadline immediately and aim to file within 30 days.
• Do submit new, material evidence that addresses the reasons for denial and relates to the relevant period.
• Do ask treating providers for function-focused opinions.
• Do keep copies of everything you send and confirm online submissions.
• Don’t ignore requests for information or miss consultative exams without promptly explaining good cause.
• Don’t assume a Listing is your only path to approval—many claims are won at Steps 4 and 5 via RFC analysis.
• Don’t wait until the week of your hearing to gather records; follow 20 C.F.R. § 404.935 and submit early.

Frequently Asked Questions for Maryland, Maryland Claimants

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on work credits and disability under 42 U.S.C. § 423(d). SSI is needs-based with resource and income limits under 20 C.F.R. Part 416. Many people apply for both. Appeal timelines are similar, but eligibility criteria differ.

Can I keep working while I appeal?

Earnings above the SGA level can lead to an unfavorable finding at Step 1. If you attempt part-time work or have limited earnings below SGA, document hours, duties, and any accommodations. SSA considers work activity, but the legal standard is whether you can engage in substantial gainful activity on a sustained basis.

How long does it take to get a hearing?

Timeframes vary based on caseload and modality (phone, video, in-person). While SSA publishes national processing times, localized wait times can change. File promptly, keep your contact information updated, and submit evidence early to avoid rescheduling.

Do I need an attorney?

You are not required to have one, but representatives can improve case development and presentation. Under 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705, both attorneys and certain non-attorneys may represent claimants, with fees subject to SSA approval.

Where can I get local SSA help in Maryland?

Use the official SSA Office Locator to find a Maryland field office, verify hours, and learn which services are available in person versus online.

How to File and Track Your Maryland Appeal

• Gather your denial letter and set deadlines. Note the date printed on the letter, add five calendar days for presumed receipt (20 C.F.R. § 404.901), and count 60 days from that date for the appeal deadline relevant to your level.
• File online when possible. SSA’s online appeal system allows you to upload evidence, authorize SSA to collect records, and receive confirmations.
• Submit targeted evidence. Address each reason for denial. If SSA relied on a consultative exam (CE) you disagree with, provide treating-source opinions and objective testing that explain discrepancies.
• Prepare for your hearing. Outline testimony, organize exhibits, and draft questions for vocational experts related to off-task time, breaks, absenteeism, or other non-exertional limitations that can be work-preclusive.
• Monitor your mail and my Social Security account. Keep contact information current and check for notices to avoid missing deadlines or appointments.

Checklist: Evidence SSA Looks For

• Objective testing: Imaging, lab results, pulmonary function tests, neuropsychological testing, etc.
• Treating provider opinions: Clear, function-by-function assessments tied to clinical findings.
• Longitudinal records: Regular treatment notes showing persistence, frequency, and response to treatment.
• Medication effects: Side effects, interactions, and adjustments that affect concentration, stamina, or attendance.
• Functional narratives: A daily-activities log showing good and bad days, recovery time, and variability of symptoms.

Summary of Your Rights and Responsibilities

• Right to appeal: 60 days at each stage; five-day receipt presumption (20 C.F.R. §§ 404.901, 404.909, 404.933, 404.968; 20 C.F.R. § 422.210).
• Right to representation: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1705 and 42 U.S.C. § 406(a) govern who can represent you and how fees are approved.
• Duty to submit evidence: 20 C.F.R. § 404.1512 requires submission of all evidence you have that relates to disability.
• Hearing evidence timing: 20 C.F.R. § 404.935 requires evidence at least five business days before the hearing, subject to exceptions.
• Judicial review: 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) allows you to seek review in federal court after the Appeals Council stage.

Maryland, Maryland Action Plan

• Today: Read your denial letter, find your deadline, and create a calendar reminder two weeks before it.
• This week: Use the SSA Office Locator to confirm your nearest Maryland field office and decide whether to appeal online. Gather provider contact information and request complete records.
• Within two weeks: Draft a concise appeal statement responding to SSA’s stated reasons. Request treating-source opinions focused on work-related limits.
• Before your hearing (if applicable): Submit evidence at least five business days in advance, practice testimony, and prepare to question vocational assumptions.
• Ongoing: Keep all appointments, follow treatment plans as prescribed, and update SSA with any address or phone changes.

Important Links for Maryland Residents

Appeal an SSA Decision (Official SSA Portal)20 C.F.R. § 404.900 et seq. (Appeals Regulations)42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (Judicial Review of SSA Decisions)Find Your Maryland SSA Office (Official Locator)SSA Blue Book (Listings of Impairments)

Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for Maryland, Maryland residents about SSDI denials and appeals. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and regulations can change. You should consult a licensed Maryland attorney or qualified representative about your specific situation.

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