Social Security Disability Attorneys in
Maryland Serving Clients Nationwide

If you have suffered a temporary or permanent disability and are no longer able to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.  

Over 2 million people apply for disabled worker benefits each year. Since the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives such a large amount of applications, the SSD process is known for being long, stressful, and quite tedious. These difficulties only amplify when you choose to navigate your claim without the support of an experienced attorney.  

Our Social Security lawyers at Gordon, Wolf & Carney offer over 100 years of combined legal experience. We are prepared to meet with you and discuss the details of your case so that, together, we can build a claim that aims for your best result. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable and compassionate team. We have a strong history of success, and we represent clients throughout the state of Maryland and across the country. 

What Is Social Security Disability? 

The SSA offers two benefit programs that provide support to those who meet the requirements for disability.  

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an insurance-based benefit program for disabled workers who have contributed to Social Security through payroll taxes and accumulated sufficient work credits during their working years. The length of time needed to qualify for benefits varies. But, in general, you must have worked at least five out of the last 10 years.   

• If you have never worked, have not worked in many years, or have not worked long enough to qualify for SSDI, you may still qualify for disability benefits through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. SSI provides monthly benefits for disabled individuals with low income and limited resources.   

Many people meet the requirements for both programs. If you do, you could receive both SSDI and SSI benefits at the same time. This is known as ‘concurrent benefits.’  

No matter what, the key to receiving the support you need is submitting an application that has minimal chances of getting denied. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. But before you do, it’s crucial to understand the requirements you need to meet and what information you need to complete the application process.  

To maximize your chances of securing benefits, we strongly advise you to consult a trusted attorney. Our experienced team is here if you need answers or further representation. 

Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits? 

Once you partner with our SSD attorneys, the first thing we’ll do is determine your eligibility. You will have to satisfy Social Security’s definition of disability: 

• Because of your medical condition, you cannot work or participate in any substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA refers to significant physical and/or mental tasks. 

• Because of your condition, you cannot work as you previously could or adjust to any other work. 

• Your condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year. Or, it’s expected to result in death.  

All three of these statements must be true for you to be considered eligible. To prove that you are unable to work, you must have medical documentation and a consistent history of treatment by medical professionals. These will also help demonstrate that your injury or illness is either permanent, terminal, or expected to last for over a year. 

We understand that all this information can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with a critical injury or illness. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you forward.  

Does Your Condition Qualify as a Disability? 

To determine if you have a qualifying disability, the SSA will consider a variety of factors. A major one being how severe your condition is, as that will clarify whether you can engage in SGA or adapt to another type of work.  

The SSA maintains a comprehensive list of impairments that they consider severe enough to prevent a worker from doing SGA. There is a range of medical conditions that qualify for SSD benefits, including but not limited to:  

• orthopedic injuries  

• inflammatory arthritis  

• cancer   

• burns 

• fibromyalgia  

• chronic fatigue  

• depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders 

• eating disorders 

• Autism spectrum disorder 

• liver disease 

• heart disease 

• complications from diabetes 

If you can’t find your specific condition on the SSA’s list, you may still qualify for benefits. While they evaluate your claim, they will decide whether or not your impairment is as severe as one that is on the list and approve your application accordingly. But if they reject you, know that you have the right to appeal a Social Security denial. 

Don’t risk your family’s chances for financial security. With the strict requirements to fulfill, and so many intricacies involved in the process, it’s in your best interest to partner with a diligent attorney who has ample experience with SSD claims. Discover how we can help you during the application or appeals process when you call our Maryland law firm.