Educational Resources

Learn more about what you need to know below.

What is the Social Security Disability 5-Year Rule?

What is the Social Security Disability 5-Year Rule?

The Social Security Disability 5-Year Rule, also known as the “Duration of Work” rule, is an essential eligibility requirement for individuals seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in the United States. This rule determines whether an applicant has worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for SSDI benefits.

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The Role of a Disability Representative: How We Help You Win Your Case

The Role of a Disability Representative: How We Help You Win Your Case

Navigating the complex world of disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with health challenges. The complexities involved in understanding eligibility criteria, the application process, and the various types of disability benefits available can often seem like an insurmountable task. Having access to clear and reliable information, as well as expert guidance, can make a world of difference. The role of a disability representative is to support and assist individuals in winning their disability cases.

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Appealing a Denied Disability Claim – Your Second Chance at Benefits

Appealing a Denied Disability Claim – Your Second Chance at Benefits

Disability Support Services (DSS) of Maryland knows that facing a denied disability claim can be incredibly disheartening. You may have relied on those benefits to support yourself and your family during a challenging time. The good news is that you can appeal the decision and potentially secure the benefits you deserve. In this blog, DSS is going to walk you through the process of appealing a denied disability claim, providing you with the knowledge and confidence you need to give it your best shot.

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Preparing for Your Social Security Disability Interview: Tips for a Successful Application

Preparing for Your Social Security Disability Interview: Tips for a Successful Application

Preparing for your social security disability interview: tips for a successful application can be daunting. Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a complex and overwhelming process. One crucial step in this journey is the disability interview. This interview is a pivotal moment that can significantly impact the success of your application.

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Mental Illness and Disability Benefits: Understanding Your Rights and Options

Mental Illness and Disability Benefits: Understanding Your Rights and Options

Living with a mental illness can significantly impact a person’s life, making it challenging to maintain employment and carry out daily activities. Recognizing these difficulties, the United States provides disability benefits to individuals with mental health conditions. Disability Support Services (DSS) of Maryland aims to provide an overview of disability benefits for mental illness, including the types of benefits available, eligibility criteria, and the application process. Understanding your rights and options can help you access the support you need to navigate your mental health journey.

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When Do Social Security Disability Benefits Stop?

When Do Social Security Disability Benefits Stop?

Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits stop when you become ineligible to receive them. But the Social Security Administration (SSA) has many standards for eligibility. If you become ineligible under any of these standards, your SSD benefits will end. Here is some information about the rules the SSA uses to determine when Social Security Disability benefits stop.

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What Are Functional Limitations & How Do They Affect Disability Benefits?

What Are Functional Limitations & How Do They Affect Disability Benefits?

As you work through the process of securing your Social Security disability benefits, you might run across the term “functional limitations.” Evidence of a physical, mental, or environmental limitation could help you secure benefits or win an appeal. Here is some information about what constitutes a limitation and how the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses evidence of these conditions.

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Medical-Vocational Allowances: An Alternative Path for Social Security Disability Benefits

Medical-Vocational Allowances: An Alternative Path for Social Security Disability Benefits

Filing for disability benefits can be a difficult process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict list of criteria that applicants need to meet for their particular medical condition for the claim to be approved. These stringent standards leave tens of thousands of Americans who are struggling with disabilities without necessary support through government aid. The good news is there are options for those who don’t meet the standards of the SSA for disability benefits. To learn more about medical-vocational allowances, read on.

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