What are the eligibility criteria for disability in Maryland?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/01/2025
If you're applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Maryland, one of the most critical components of your application is your medical documentation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) bases its decision largely on the medical evidence you submit. Submitting strong, detailed, and up-to-date documentation can significantly improve your chances of approval.
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Why Medical Evidence Matters
The SSA needs to verify that your condition meets its definition of disability: a medically determinable impairment that prevents you from working for at least 12 consecutive months or is expected to result in death. The quality and completeness of your medical documentation can make or break your SSDI claim.
Essential Medical Documentation for SSDI in Maryland
Complete Medical Records
Gather all records from doctors, specialists, hospitals, clinics, and any other health providers who have treated you. These records should include:
- Office visit notes
- Hospital admission and discharge summaries
- Diagnostic test results (e.g., MRIs, CT scans, X-rays)
- Surgical reports
- Lab results
- Treatment history and outcomes
Diagnosis and Prognosis
Ensure your documentation includes an official diagnosis from a licensed medical professional and, ideally, a prognosis outlining how your condition is expected to progress. This helps the SSA assess the long-term impact of your disability.
Treatment Plans and Response
The SSA wants to see that you are following prescribed treatments and that your condition persists despite medical intervention. Include:
- Medications prescribed
- Physical therapy records
- Mental health treatment notes
- Evidence of treatment side effects, if any
Functional Limitations
One of the most important aspects of your SSDI claim is showing how your condition limits your ability to work. This can include:
- Restrictions on physical activity (e.g., walking, lifting, standing)
- Mental and cognitive limitations (e.g., memory, concentration, decision-making)
- Statements from your treating physicians describing how your condition affects your daily life and work capabilities
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessments
An RFC assessment evaluates what you are still capable of doing despite your impairment. This can be completed by your physician and helps the SSA determine whether you can perform any type of work.
Consistency and Continuity
Make sure your medical documentation is:

- Consistent across all providers
- Ongoing (showing continued treatment and monitoring)
- Well-organized and up-to-date
The SSA may question your claim if there are significant gaps in treatment or contradictory medical opinions.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we understand how important it is to present strong medical evidence in your SSDI application. Our team can:
- Help you identify gaps in your documentation and request additional records.
- Coordinate with your medical providers to gather detailed statements supporting your claim.
- Organize and submit your medical evidence correctly and on time.
- Prepare you for potential appeals if your claim is denied.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t let paperwork hold back your disability claim. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation and let us help you gather the right medical documentation to support your SSDI case in Maryland. We're here to make sure your voice—and your medical condition—are properly represented.
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