Are you struggling with a disability that leaves you unable to work? If your medical condition prevents you from earning a living wage, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability.

If you’re struggling to pay your bills and medical expenses are piling up, we’re here to help. Our firm has represented thousands of disabled clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Our own Attorney John O’Neil has extensive experience representing disability clients in Baltimore, MD.

At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we know the ins and outs of filing for disability. You can trust us to support you through every step of the process and help you understand the strict application guidelines.

Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation if you’re ready to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. Our legal team is prepared to stand by your side and fight to ensure you get the benefits you deserve.

Applying for SSDI & SSI in Baltimore, Maryland

You may have heard about Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These are two disability benefit programs managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). When applying for disability, it’s important to understand which benefit program you can qualify for.

SSDI is for disabled workers who have worked and paid into the Social Security System throughout their lives. You cannot receive SSDI unless you have earned a substantial amount of work credits.

SSI is for disabled individuals who can’t qualify for SSDI due to a limited work history. To apply for SSI, you must be low income and have very few resources. SSI is also for people who are blind or 65 and older.

Not sure which program you’ll qualify for? Don’t worry. Our Baltimore Social Security Disability lawyer can help you understand your options. At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we guide clients through every step of the initial application process.

Social Security Disability Appeals

Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration denies most initial disability claims. This can happen because of claim filing errors or insubstantial medical evidence. Other times, the SSA might have reason to believe an applicant is still able to work.

Even if your disability is genuine, the complex application process can result in a rejection. That’s why having an experienced disability lawyer on your side is so important. At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we know how to avoid common pitfalls and present your case effectively.

The Appeals Process

No matter where you are in the appeals process, our attorneys are here to help. Social Security Disability appeals involve several steps:

1. Initial Denial
2. Request for Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. We’ll ask the SSA to review your case again.
3. Hearing With an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If the reconsideration results in another denial, we’ll request a hearing.
4. Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your claim, we can ask the Appeals Council to look at your case.
5. Federal Court Review: As a last resort, we can take your case to federal court.

You can depend on our Social Security Disability appeals attorney in Maryland when you’re facing a denied claim. Contact us today to set up a free case evaluation!

Understanding the SSA’s Guidelines

The SSA has strict rules for qualifying for disability. In order to qualify for either SSDI or SSI benefits, you must meet the following criteria:

• Medical Condition: Your condition must prevent you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
• Duration: Your disability must have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least one year or result in death.
• Qualifying Condition: Your medical condition must be a qualifying condition. This means it must be in the Blue Book or equal a Blue Book listing in severity. If your condition doesn’t meet these requirements, you may receive benefits through a Medical-Vocational Allowance.

Supporting Medical Evidence

Medical evidence is key to winning your case and proving your condition qualifies for disability benefits.

The SSA relies heavily on the Listing of Impairments, commonly known as the Blue Book, to evaluate disability claims. The Blue Book is divided into multiple sections, each addressing different body systems and their associated impairments. Each impairment listing includes the medical criteria required to meet the SSA’s definition of disabled.

At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we possess an in-depth understanding of these impairment listings. We can identify what medical evidence will be critical to your case.

Our team works diligently to:

• Analyze your medical records in relation to Blue Book criteria
• Identify any gaps in your documentation
• Collaborate with your healthcare providers to obtain all necessary evidence
• Ensure all medical reports, test results, and treatment records are properly compiled and submitted

Even if your condition doesn’t meet a Blue Book listing, we can help you prove that your impairment is medically equivalent to a listed condition, or that it significantly impacts your ability to work. Our goal is to present a compelling, evidence-based case that clearly demonstrates your eligibility for disability benefits.

Contact O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group

If you’re ready to file your disability application, let our experienced Maryland Social Security Disability team guide you. We’re here to help you get the benefits you deserve so you can focus on what really matters— your health and well-being.

We don’t just help you fill out forms. We stand by you from start to finish, even if you’re facing an appeal. Some lawyers turn away tough cases, but not us. We take on challenges that others won’t.

Don’t let confusing paperwork or a denial letter stop you from getting the help you need. Contact O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group today for a free consultation. We’re more than just lawyers, we’re your partners in your fight to achieve financial support.