Why Was My Social Security Disability Denied in Maryland?

Imagine this: you’ve worked hard your entire life, but a serious medical condition forces you out of work. You apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hoping for financial relief—only to receive a denial letter in the mail.

If you’re asking, “Why was my Social Security Disability denied in Maryland?”, you’re not alone. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies over 60% of initial SSDI applications, and Maryland is no exception.

This article explains why SSDI claims are denied, what you can do about it, and how legal professionals like Louis Law Group can guide you through the appeal process.

Common Reasons Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied in Maryland

1. Insufficient Medical Evidence

Your medical records must clearly show that your condition prevents you from working. Missing details, outdated records, or lack of specialist support can lead to denial.

SSA's Evidence Requirements

2. You’re Still Working Above the SGA Limit

SSA uses a threshold called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)—if you earn more than $1,550/month (as of 2025), your claim could be denied automatically.

Substantial Gainful Activity Limits

3. Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment

The SSA may deny your claim if you aren’t following your doctor’s instructions or treatments. They may assume that your condition could improve with compliance.

4. Short-Term or Non-Severe Disability

If your condition is not expected to last 12 months or isn’t considered severe enough to impact your ability to work, SSA will likely issue a denial.

5. Lack of Work Credits

SSDI is an earned benefit based on your work history. If you don’t have enough work credits—usually 20 credits earned in the last 10 years—you may be ineligible.

SSA Work Credit Information

6. Application Errors

Simple mistakes—missed fields, wrong dates, or mismatched information—can derail your claim before it's even reviewed.

What Happens After a Denial in Maryland?

You have 60 days to file an appeal after receiving a denial letter. The SSA appeals process in Maryland includes:

Reconsideration

A new SSA reviewer re-examines your case. Provide updated medical evidence and correct any application errors.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing

If reconsideration fails, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. This is where many claimants are finally approved—especially with professional representation.

Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the judge’s decision.

Federal Court Lawsuit

As a final step, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.

Tips to Improve Your SSDI Appeal

• Keep attending doctor appointments and updating your medical records

• Obtain a detailed Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment from your physician

• Document how your condition affects daily tasks

• Don’t wait—appeal quickly within the 60-day window

For more detailed guidance, explore this step-by-step guide by Louis Law Group

How Louis Law Group Can Help with Your Denied SSDI in Maryland

If your Social Security Disability claim was denied in Maryland, don’t give up. Louis Law Group has experience guiding clients through each stage of the appeal process—from reviewing denial letters to representing clients at ALJ hearings.

Their legal team can help:

• Build a compelling case with medical and vocational evidence

• Ensure all SSA deadlines and procedures are followed

• Represent you during hearings and present your case effectively

Working with a law firm like Louis Law Group can significantly improve your odds of approval—and you don’t pay unless they win.

Discover more about our services on the Louis Law Group Social Security Disability

FAQs: SSDI Denials in Maryland

What should I do immediately after my SSDI denial?

Read your denial letter carefully and request an appeal within 60 days. Use that time to collect more evidence and correct any mistakes.

How long does it take to win an appeal in Maryland?

It varies. Reconsideration may take 2–3 months, while ALJ hearings can take up to a year depending on the backlog.

Can I file a new claim instead of appealing?

Yes, but it’s often more strategic to appeal your original claim, especially if the denial was based on technical or medical reasons.

Will hiring a lawyer help?

Absolutely. A disability attorney can strengthen your case, represent you during hearings, and increase your chances of approval.

Conclusion: A Denial Is Not the End

Receiving a denial letter is frustrating—but it’s also very common. Most successful Social Security Disability claims in Maryland are won on appeal, not the first try.

If your SSDI claim was denied, act quickly, gather evidence, and consider working with experienced legal counsel like Louis Law Group to guide you through the next steps.

Your future may depend on it—will you fight for the benefits you deserve?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.