Rheumatoid Arthritis Benefits in Maryland

• To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a disability expected to last at least 12 months, limited income and resources, and meet Social Security's definition of disability[4][6].
• For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months[4][6].
• Both programs require medical proof, such as doctor's reports and test results, to show your rheumatoid arthritis limits your ability to work[4][6].
• Children with rheumatoid arthritis may also qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits[6].

• The Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) is for low-income Marylanders with a short-term disability or those waiting for federal disability approval[1][2][5].
• TDAP is for adults without dependent children. You must have a medical report from a licensed practitioner confirming your disability[1][2].
• If your disability is expected to last 12 months or more, you must apply for SSI[1].
• TDAP benefits are limited to 12 months in any 36-month period unless you are pursuing SSI[1].
• Maryland also offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services for people with disabilities[internal_link_2].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov or by phone at 800-772-1213[4][5].
• For TDAP, apply at your local Department of Social Services or online at MarylandBenefits.gov[1][5].
• Contact your local social services office for help with Medicaid waivers[internal_link_2].

• Step 1: Collect all medical records, including doctor's notes, test results, and treatment plans for rheumatoid arthritis.
• Step 2: Apply for SSI or SSDI. You can start online at ssa.gov/apply, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office[4][5].
• Step 3: For TDAP, visit your local Department of Social Services in person, or apply online at MarylandBenefits.gov[1][5]. You will need to submit a medical report from a licensed practitioner.
• Step 4: If you need long-term care, apply for a Medicaid waiver through your local social services office[internal_link_2].
• Step 5: Keep records of all applications and follow up regularly. If denied, you can appeal the decision.
• Step 6: Report any changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments[internal_link_4].

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash payments for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older[4][5].
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for those with a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months[4][5][6].
• Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities[internal_link_2].
• Medicare: Health coverage for those who receive SSDI for 24 months[internal_link_5].

• Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP): Short-term cash benefits for low-income Marylanders with a disability, up to $185 per month, while awaiting federal disability approval or for short-term needs[1][2][5].
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Programs that provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those with rheumatoid arthritis[internal_link_2].
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities, allowing you to save money without losing benefits[internal_link_3].
• Work Incentives: Programs to help you return to work while keeping some benefits[internal_link_6].

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing[internal_link_3].

For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $967, but this can be less based on your living situation and other income[4]. TDAP benefits are generally up to $185 per month[5]. SSDI amounts depend on your work history[4].

If your income, living situation, or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits[internal_link_4].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 800-772-1213

  TTY: 800-325-0778

  Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday

  Website

  For SSI/SSDI applications and questions.
• Maryland Department of Human Services
  Phone: 410-767-5100

  Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday

  Website

  For TDAP, Medicaid, and local office information.

• Can rheumatoid arthritis qualify for disability benefits in Maryland?

  Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can qualify for SSI, SSDI, and TDAP if it limits your ability to work and meets the program's medical and financial criteria[4][5][6].

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI in Maryland?

  You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income[4][5].

• What is TDAP and who is eligible?

  TDAP is a short-term state program for low-income Marylanders with a disability, up to $185 per month. It is for those without dependent children and awaiting federal disability approval[1][2][5].

• How much can I get from SSI in Maryland?

  The maximum SSI benefit in 2025 is $967 per month, but this can be less based on your living situation and other income[4].

• Can I work while receiving disability benefits?

  Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to try working while keeping some benefits. Contact a benefits planner for help[internal_link_6].

• What is a Medicaid waiver and how do I apply?

  A Medicaid waiver provides home and community-based services for people with disabilities. Apply through your local Department of Social Services[internal_link_2].

• What is an ABLE account and how does it help?