If an applicant has an impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months, the applicant shall: pursue Supplemental Security Income; and sign an interim payment reimbursement authorization that: gives the Social Security Administration authority to mail the applicant’s payments to the Department or the local department; and authorizes the Department or local department to deduct from the payments an amount equal to the assistance granted the applicant under this subtitle. A recipient who is otherwise eligible under this subtitle may not receive assistance for more than 9 months in a 36–month period, unless the recipient: has been certified as medically disabled by a licensed health care provider on the medical form required under § 5–5B–05 of this subtitle; and has a pending application for Supplemental Security Income that has not been withdrawn or finally denied.