If you applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Maryland and received a denial letter, you are not alone—and you still have options. The first official step to appeal that denial is called disability reconsideration. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the disability reconsideration process in Maryland, including timelines, what to expect, and how to improve your chances of approval.
Key Takeaways
- Disability reconsideration is the first level of appeal after an initial denial of SSDI or SSI benefits.
- In Maryland, the average processing time for reconsideration decisions is about 90-120 days, but it can vary.
- You must request reconsideration within 60 days of receiving your denial letter.
- Gathering new medical evidence and submitting a thorough, well-documented appeal is critical.
- If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), a process with longer wait times in Maryland.
What Is Disability Reconsideration?
Disability reconsideration is the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) first official review of your denied application. It involves a complete re-evaluation of your medical condition, work history, and any new evidence since your original claim. This is your chance to convince SSA that you meet the requirements for disability benefits under the law.
Why Does SSA Require Reconsideration?
SSA uses reconsideration as a safeguard to ensure initial denials are accurate but also to give claimants an opportunity to correct errors or provide additional information. It’s a critical step before moving on to the hearing stage, which is more formal and time-consuming.
The Disability Reconsideration Process in Maryland
Step 1: Filing a Request for Reconsideration
After your initial claim is denied, you will receive a “Notice of Disapproved Claim.” This letter outlines why your claim was denied and explains your right to appeal.
- Deadline to Request Reconsideration: You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file your request.
- How to Request: You can request reconsideration by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213, visiting your local Maryland SSA field office, or submitting Form SSA-561-U2.
Failing to request reconsideration within 60 days will generally result in losing the right to appeal.
Step 2: Review by Disability Determination Services (DDS) Maryland
Once SSA receives your request, the case is sent to Maryland’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. DDS is responsible for reviewing your claim and medical records anew.
They will:
- Obtain updated medical evidence from your healthcare providers.
- Possibly schedule you for a consultative examination (CE) if additional medical information is needed.
- Review your work history and daily activities.
Step 3: Decision Notification
After thorough review, DDS will issue a reconsideration decision.
- Typical timeframe in Maryland: 3 to 4 months (90-120 days), but this can fluctuate based on workload.
- Decision outcomes:
– Approval: You start receiving benefits shortly.
– Denial: You can appeal to the next step—a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
Maryland Disability Reconsideration Statistics
Below is a comparison of average wait times and approval rates for disability reconsideration in Maryland versus national averages. These numbers are based on recent SSA data and can help you set expectations.
| Metric | Maryland Average | National Average |
|——————————–|————————–|————————–|
| Average Reconsideration Time | 90–120 days | 75–120 days |
| Approval Rate at Reconsideration| Approximately 10-15% | Approximately 12-17% |
| Average Time to ALJ Hearing | 14-18 months | 12-16 months |
| Percent of Claims Approved at ALJ Hearing | ~45% | ~47% |
Note: Approval rates can vary widely depending on the nature of the disability and quality of the application.
How to Prepare a Strong Disability Reconsideration Appeal in Maryland
Gather and Submit New Medical Evidence
SSA requires current and comprehensive medical proof of your disabling condition. New or updated medical records can significantly impact the reconsideration decision.
- Visit your doctors and specialists regularly.
- Ask your providers to detail the severity and impact of your condition in their notes.
- Include test results, imaging reports, and treatment plans.
Complete the SSA Forms Accurately
You will need to fill out or update forms such as:
- SSA-3368 (Disability Report)
- SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Medical Information)
- Any supplemental forms DDS requests
Accuracy and honesty are critical here. Avoid contradictions or gaps in information.
Consider Consultative Examinations (CE)
If DDS requests a consultative exam, attend it promptly and provide full details of your symptoms and limitations. These exams are crucial in the reconsideration process.
Document How Your Condition Affects Daily Life and Work
Include statements from yourself, family members, or coworkers about your limitations. This can help demonstrate how your impairments affect your ability to work and perform daily activities.
Maryland-Specific Tips and Resources
Local SSA Field Offices in Maryland
You can visit or call your local SSA office for assistance with reconsideration requests or questions. Here are a few main offices:
| Office Location | Address | Phone |
|————————-|———————————|—————–|
| Baltimore | 10 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 | 1-800-772-1213 |
| Rockville | 1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852 | 1-800-772-1213 |
| Hagerstown | 18308 Maugans Avenue, Hagerstown, MD 21742 | 1-800-772-1213 |
Disability Determination Services (DDS) Maryland Office
DDS is the agency that evaluates your medical evidence for disability claims in Maryland.
- DDS Office Address: 1301 Piccard Drive, Suite LL30, Rockville, MD 20850
- Phone: (301) 279-8000
Maryland Disability Advocates and Legal Aid
If you need help preparing your reconsideration request, Maryland has nonprofit legal aid organizations specializing in Social Security Disability:
- Maryland Disability Law Center: Provides free legal assistance for disability benefits claims.
- Legal Aid Bureau, Inc. (Maryland): Offers representation at no cost for eligible applicants.
What Happens If Reconsideration Is Denied?
If your reconsideration appeal is denied, you still have options:
Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
This is the next level of appeal and involves a formal hearing where you can present testimony, medical evidence, and legal arguments.
- Waiting times for ALJ hearings in Maryland can be lengthy—typically 14 to 18 months.
- Approval rates at this stage are higher—around 45%.
- You can bring a qualified disability attorney or advocate to represent you.
Further Appeals
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the SSA Appeals Council and eventually file a lawsuit in federal court. These steps are complex and usually require legal assistance.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid During Reconsideration
- Missing the 60-day deadline: Always file your reconsideration request on time.
- Failing to submit new evidence: Reconsideration is your chance to update and strengthen your case.
- Ignoring consultative exams: Attend all requested medical exams.
- Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork: This can delay or hurt your claim.
- Not seeking professional help if overwhelmed: Disability law is complex; professional guidance matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get a reconsideration decision in Maryland?
Typically, it takes about 3 to 4 months (90-120 days), but it can vary depending on case complexity and DDS workload.
2. Can I submit new medical evidence during reconsideration?
Yes. Providing new and updated medical records is essential to improving your chances of approval.
3. What if I miss the 60-day deadline to request reconsideration?
If you miss the deadline, your appeal rights may be lost. However, in rare cases, you can request an extension if you show good cause.
4. Should I hire a disability attorney for reconsideration?
While not required, having an experienced disability attorney or advocate can improve your chances by ensuring your appeal is thorough and well-documented.
5. What happens after reconsideration if my claim is denied again?
You can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), which is the next step in the appeals process.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Navigating the Social Security disability reconsideration process in Maryland can feel intimidating, especially when you’re already dealing with serious health challenges. However, understanding each step, meeting deadlines, and submitting strong medical evidence can significantly improve your chances of winning benefits.
If you have been denied disability benefits and are preparing to request reconsideration, I strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified disability attorney or accredited representative. They can help you gather the right evidence, complete paperwork correctly, and present the strongest possible case to SSA and DDS.
Don’t face this complicated process alone—get the help you deserve to secure the benefits you need.
Written by Michael T. Hargrove, former SSA Claims Examiner and Disability Benefits Consultant.