If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) will periodically review your case. This review ensures that you are still eligible for benefits. Understanding how the SSDI review process works can help you prepare for what to expect.
What is a continuing disability review (CDR)?
The SSDI review process, also called a continuing disability review (CDR), determines whether you still meet the medical requirements for disability benefits. The SSA conducts these reviews based on how likely your condition is to improve. They may review some people every three years, while they might only review others every seven years. If the SSA expects your condition to improve sooner, they will review you more often..
Receiving the CDR notice
The SSA will mail you a notice when it’s time for your review. The notice will include a form that asks about your current health, medical treatments, and any recent work activity. Depending on the type of review, you might receive a short form (SSA-455) or a longer, more detailed form (SSA-454). The shorter form is for individuals whose condition is less likely to improve, while the longer form is used when more information is needed.
Providing medical information
During the review, you will need to provide information about your medical condition, including recent doctor visits, hospital stays, and treatments. It’s important to provide accurate and up-to-date information. This helps the SSA understand your current health status and whether your condition has improved or stayed the same. Your doctors may also be contacted to provide additional details.
Review decision and outcomes
The SSA will evaluate the information you provide, along with medical records from your healthcare providers. If the SSA determines that your condition has not improved or that you are still unable to work, you will continue to receive SSDI benefits. If they decide that your condition has improved enough for you to return to work, your benefits may stop. You will receive a notice explaining their decision, and if your benefits end, there may be options to appeal.
Preparing for your review
To make the review process easier, keep records of all your medical treatments, doctor visits, and any changes in your health. Regularly updating your medical files ensures that you have accurate information to provide during your review.
The SSDI review process helps ensure that only those who need disability benefits continue to receive them. By understanding the review process, you can make the process smoother and maintain your benefits if you remain eligible.