SSI vs SSDI Denial Appeal Guide for Maryland, MD

Introduction: Why Maryland Residents Need a Focused SSDI Denial Strategy

Every year, thousands of Marylanders apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hoping to secure the federal income they need when a serious health condition keeps them from working. Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) initially denies roughly two-thirds of first-time SSDI applications nationwide, and Maryland’s denial rate is comparable. If you recently opened a letter marked “Notice of Disapproved Claim,” do not panic: a structured, evidence-based appeal is often the key to approval. This guide explains the entire process—from the first denial to a potential federal court review—through the lens of Maryland law, resources, and practice. We favor the claimant’s perspective while strictly adhering to federal regulations and verified facts.

Local Snapshot

• Population with disabilities (Maryland): Approximately 12.3% according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

• Average SSDI monthly benefit (2024): $1,415 statewide, per SSA data.

• Primary SSA hearing office serving Maryland: Baltimore Hearing Office, 300 W. Pratt St., Suite 450, Baltimore, MD 21201.

Remember: this article covers SSDI, not Supplemental Security Income (SSI), although we compare the two briefly so you can understand eligibility differences. All federal citations come directly from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the Social Security Act.

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

SSDI is an insurance program funded by payroll taxes under Title II of the Social Security Act. If you have paid into Social Security via FICA deductions long enough to earn adequate quarters of coverage, you may draw benefits when a medically determinable impairment prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

Key Rights Under Federal Law

• Right to Written Notice & Explanation – 42 U.S.C. §405(b) requires SSA to give you a written decision outlining the evidence considered and the reasons for denial.

• Right to Contest – 20 CFR §404.900 establishes a four-level administrative review process: Reconsideration, ALJ Hearing, Appeals Council, and Federal Court.

• Right to Representation – 20 CFR §404.1705 lets you appoint an attorney or qualified non-attorney advocate. In Maryland, attorneys must be licensed by the Supreme Court of Maryland.

• Right to Timely Appeals – You generally have 60 days from receipt of any decision to file the next appeal level (20 CFR §404.909 & §404.933).

SSI vs SSDI: SSI is a needs-based program under Title XVI with strict asset limits ($2,000 individual/$3,000 couple, 2024), while SSDI is insurance-based with no asset cap. Both programs share the disability standard in 20 CFR §404.1520, but SSI uses different income rules.

Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

Understanding why claims get rejected helps you prepare a targeted appeal.

1. Insufficient Work Credits

SSDI requires a specific number of quarters of coverage based on your age at disability onset (20 CFR §404.130). Maryland claimants who left the workforce early may fall short.

2. Medical Evidence Does Not Show “Severe” Impairment

SSA must see objective clinical findings—not merely subjective complaints—that your condition “significantly limits basic work activities” (20 CFR §404.1520(c)). Missing MRI results, lab work, or specialist opinions often sink claims.

3. Ability to Perform Past Relevant Work

If SSA’s vocational analysis (Step 4 of the Sequential Evaluation) finds you can still do jobs you held in the past 15 years, denial follows (20 CFR §404.1565).

4. Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment

SSA may deny if you refuse recommended treatment without a “good reason” (20 CFR §404.1530). In Maryland, cost barriers may suffice if documented.

5. Non-Compliance With Deadlines

Missing the 60-day appeal window results in dismissal unless you demonstrate good cause per 20 CFR §404.911.

Federal Legal Protections & Regulations Every Maryland Claimant Should Know

Sequential Evaluation Process

SSA evaluates disability through five sequential steps mandated by 20 CFR §404.1520:

• Step 1: Are you working above SGA ($1,550/mo. non-blind in 2024)?

• Step 2: Is your impairment severe?

• Step 3: Does it meet or equal a Listing in Appendix 1?

• Step 4: Can you perform past relevant work?

• Step 5: Can you adjust to other work in the national economy?

Appeals Deadlines

You must move quickly after a denial:

StageDeadlineWhere to File in Maryland Reconsideration60 daysAny local SSA field office ALJ Hearing60 daysBaltimore ODAR, 300 W. Pratt St. Appeals Council60 daysSSA Appeals Council, Falls Church, VA (handles MD cases) Federal District Court60 daysU.S. District Court for the District of Maryland

Payment Continuation Option

If you are already receiving SSDI and SSA decides to terminate benefits, you can request that payments continue during appeal by filing within 10 days of notice (20 CFR §404.1597a).

Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial

Step 1: Read Your Denial Letter Carefully

The denial notice lists medical sources considered, vocational findings, and citation to applicable regulations. Mark every stated reason—it becomes your roadmap.

Step 2: File for Reconsideration (Maryland DDS)

In Maryland, the Disability Determination Services (DDS)—a unit of the State Department of Education’s Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)—handles the first appeal. Submit SSA Form 561 and new medical evidence within 60 days. DDS address: 1100 Eastern Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21221.

Step 3: Request an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing

If Reconsideration fails, file form HA-501. Hearings are generally held at the Baltimore Hearing Office (Downtown), but video hearings from local field offices such as Rockville (315 N. Washington St.) are common.

Step 4: Appeals Council Review

The Appeals Council in Falls Church may grant, deny, or remand. Submit legal arguments (briefs) highlighting ALJ errors in applying regulations or misweighing evidence.

Step 5: File a Civil Action in Federal Court

Your final administrative remedy is a lawsuit under 42 U.S.C. §405(g). Maryland claimants file in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (Baltimore or Greenbelt divisions). A federal judge reviews the record for “substantial evidence” errors.

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals

While self-representation is allowed, success rates improve markedly with counsel. According to SSA’s own statistics, 55% of claimants represented by attorneys win at the ALJ level versus 34% unrepresented.

Benefits of a Maryland Disability Attorney

• Evidence Development: Coordinate with Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, or other local providers to obtain detailed RFCs.

• Vocational Cross-Examination: Challenge the VE using Maryland-specific labor statistics.

• Fee Regulation: Attorney fees are capped at 25% of past-due benefits or $7,200, whichever is less, per 20 CFR §404.1720.

• Contingency Basis: No upfront charge; fees only if you win.

Local Resources & Next Steps

Key SSA Field Offices in Maryland

• Baltimore Central: 1010 Park Ave., Baltimore, MD 21201

• Rockville: 315 N. Washington St., Rockville, MD 20850

• Glen Burnie: 151 Harry S. Truman Pkwy., Annapolis, MD 21401

Medical Facilities Experienced in Disability Documentation

• Johns Hopkins Hospital – Specialists frequently provide the longitudinal treatment records SSA prefers.

• University of Maryland Medical Center – Offers comprehensive neurology and cardiology clinics.

State & Non-Profit Assistance

Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) – Vocational rehab & independent living programs. Disability Rights Maryland – Free legal advocacy for qualifying residents. SSA Appeals Information – Official SSA forms & deadlines. SSA Listing of Impairments

Conclusion: Protect Your Right to Benefits

An SSDI denial is not the end—it is the start of a time-sensitive appeals journey. Mastering federal rules, marshaling medical evidence, and leveraging Maryland-specific resources can convert a denial into an approval. Do not wait until the clock runs out; each appeal level builds on the record created earlier.

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information for Maryland residents. It is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific case, consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

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