How do SSDI and work restrictions affect eligibility in Maryland?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 11/11/2025
SSDI benefits in Maryland are available to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. Work restrictions can significantly impact your eligibility, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific criteria for determining whether you can perform substantial gainful activity (SGA). If your disability prevents you from engaging in substantial work, you may be eligible for SSDI. However, if you are still able to perform some work, it could affect your eligibility for benefits. The SSA assesses your work history, earnings, and medical conditions to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. If you have questions about your eligibility or work restrictions, it's a good idea to contact the SSA or consult with a disability expert for a detailed review.
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1. Eligibility for SSDI Benefits

- SSDI benefits are available to individuals who have a disabling condition that prevents them from working.
- Work restrictions can impact eligibility if the disability prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and earned sufficient work credits, typically 40 credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the past 10 years.
2. How Work Restrictions Impact Eligibility
- If your disability restricts your ability to perform work, the SSA will determine whether you can engage in significant work.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is defined by the SSA as earning above a certain threshold, which varies yearly.
- If you are earning above the SGA limit, you may not qualify for SSDI, even if you have a severe disability.
3. How SSDI Eligibility is Affected by Work History
- If eligible for SSDI, you may also qualify for Medicaid to cover medical expenses.
- You might be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if your SSDI payments are low enough or if you meet other financial criteria.
4. Additional Benefits for SSDI Recipients
- Medicaid: Children who qualify for SSDI benefits may also be eligible for Medicaid for medical coverage.
- Other Assistance Programs: Depending on the circumstances, children may also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or other state-specific programs for additional support.
5. How to Apply for SSDI in Maryland
- To apply for SSDI, you must submit an application to the Social Security Administration (SSA), either online, by phone, or at a local SSA office.
- It’s important to provide necessary documentation, including medical records, a detailed work history, and proof of your disability.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
If you're wondering how SSDI and work restrictions affect eligibility in Maryland, here’s how Hogan Smith can assist you:

- Evaluate your eligibility: We’ll help you assess whether your work restrictions meet the SSA’s criteria for SSDI benefits, ensuring you understand your eligibility status.
- Estimate your potential SSDI benefits: Our team can provide a clear estimate of your benefits, taking into account your work history and any restrictions on your ability to work.
- Guide you through the application process: We’ll assist you in completing your SSDI application and submitting all required documentation, ensuring you meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Explore additional benefits: If your SSDI benefits are limited, we can help you explore other options such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Contact Hogan Smith Today
In Maryland, SSDI eligibility is impacted by both your disability and your ability to work. If your work restrictions prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA), you may qualify for SSDI benefits. The Social Security Administration evaluates your work history and the severity of your condition to determine eligibility. However, if you’re still able to work above the SGA threshold, it could affect your eligibility for benefits. To understand how your work restrictions might impact your SSDI claim or to get assistance with the application process, contact Hogan Smith today—our team of experts is ready to help you navigate the complexities of SSDI eligibility.
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