Types of Disability Benefits in Maryland

First, it’s important to know there are two main federal programs for disability:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): For individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

Maryland does not have a separate state disability insurance program, but it administers federal benefits and offers some state-specific assistance.

General Disability Requirements (For Both SSDI and SSI)

To qualify for disability benefits in Maryland, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability:

• Severe medical condition: Physical or mental impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Long-term impairment: The condition must last, or be expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death.
• Inability to work: You cannot perform your previous work or adjust to other work because of your condition.

Specific Criteria for SSDI in Maryland

• Work Credits
• You need to have worked jobs covered by Social Security.
• Generally, you’ll need 40 credits (about 10 years of work), though younger workers may qualify with fewer.
• Recent Work Test
• A portion of your credits must have been earned in the last 10 years.
• Medical Eligibility
• SSA’s "Blue Book" lists qualifying conditions (e.g., heart disease, cancer, mental disorders, musculoskeletal issues).

Specific Criteria for SSI in Maryland

• Income Limits
• Very low income: Earnings must fall below SSA’s monthly thresholds.
• Includes wages, Social Security benefits, and other financial support.
• Resource Limits
• Countable resources must not exceed $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
• Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and property (excluding your home and primary vehicle).
• Medical Eligibility
• Same medical criteria as SSDI.

Additional Factors That Can Help

• State Supplements: Maryland provides optional state supplementation to SSI recipients, which may help cover costs of living.
• Medicaid and Medicare: SSI recipients in Maryland automatically qualify for Medicaid, while SSDI recipients become eligible for Medicare after 24 months.
• Legal Assistance: Working with a local Maryland disability attorney can significantly improve your chances, especially if your initial claim is denied.

How to Apply for Disability in Maryland

You can apply:

• Online at ssa.gov
• By phone at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Social Security office

Before applying, gather:

• Medical records
• Work history
• Income and asset information
• Contact information for your doctors