PLEASE NOTE: The Maryland Department of Disabilities does not provide, process, or manage Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments. All benefits are managed directly by the federal Social Security Administration.
SSDI
- What is SSDI? - Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly financial support to individuals who can no longer work due to a qualifying disability. This includes eligible workers, certain spouses or widow(er)s, and adults disabled since childhood.
- Eligibility Quick Check
- To qualify, Social Security evaluates five core questions:
- Current Work: Are you working above a specific earning limit?
- Severity: Does your medical condition significantly limit basic work activities?
- Condition List: Is your disability on the official list of qualifying conditions?
- Past Work: Does your condition prevent you from doing your previous job?
- Other Work: Can you adjust to any other type of gainful work?
- How to Apply - You can start or complete your application online, over the phone, or in person at a local Social Security office.
- What if Your Application is Denied? - If your claim is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reason and detailing how to file an appeal. Most appeal requests can be submitted online within the specified deadline.
SSI – Supplemental Security Income
- What is SSI? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides monthly cash payments to adults 65+, as well as adults or children who are blind or disabled, who have very limited income and savings.
- Who is eligible? Eligibility depends strictly on your financial situation. You must have minimal monthly income and very few assets or physical belongings of value.
- How to apply: You can apply online at the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website or by calling their main phone number to complete the application over the telephone.
- If your claim is denied: You have the right to appeal. If you disagree with a decision, you can request that the Social Security Administration review and re-evaluate your case.
Social Services Benefits:
What is Social Services Benefits? - Social service departments provide support to vulnerable individuals, families, and communities by providing essential welfare, healthcare, and protective services.
- Cash Assistance
- Temporary Disability Assistance: Cash support for adults with no dependent children who cannot work for at least 3 months due to medical conditions.
- Temporary Cash Assistance: Cash support for low-income families with children under 18 (or 19 if graduating this year).
- Food Assistance (SNAP) Monthly benefits to help low-income individuals and families buy food. You may qualify if you are low-wage, unemployed, receiving public aid, elderly, disabled, or homeless.
- Utility Bill Assistance Energy aid is available if you are elderly, disabled, living on a limited income, or receiving Social Security/Veterans disability:
- EUSP: Pays a portion of your current electric bill.
- MEAP: Pays money directly to your energy provider to cover heating costs.