When you receive notification that you have been approved for disability benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, it can feel like you’ve crossed the finish line and the ordeal is over. In one sense it is, but you do have to be mindful that you will face other challenges ahead.
Periodically, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is required to review the cases of those receiving benefits to ensure that they still qualify for the program. These reviews are known as Continuing Disability Reviews or CDRs. It is important to understand what these reviews involve, the impact they can have, and how you need to proceed to protect your interests.
How Often Does the Social Security Administration Conduct Reviews?
Some Continuing Disability Reviews are conducted on a regular schedule as part of the agency’s ongoing maintenance obligations while others may be scheduled specially if the SSAhas information indicating that someone receiving benefits no longer suffers from a disability that prevents them from working.
In many cases, the disability Notice of Award letter indicates when you should plan to have your first disability review. The SSA aims to hold reviews every three years, every five years, or every seven years, depending on the situation of the benefit recipient. Someone who is closer to retirement age will usually have reviews less frequently. If you receive SSI and still meet the income requirements, you no longer need to have disability reviews after you turn 65. For SSDI, reviews may potentially continue until you reach the designated full retirement age for Social Security retirement benefits.
Generally, if your condition is one that could potentially improve with time, then reviews will be scheduled more frequently.
Understanding Disability Reviews
The purpose of a CDR is for the SSAto determinewhether your disabling condition has improved enough to enable you to perform substantial gainful employment. The agency will try to compile a medical history for the years since you were found disabled, get information about the current level of impairment, and find out information about any work you may have performed. If the SSAfinds that you are no longer disabled, they send a notice saying that your benefits will end, and you have the opportunity to file an appeal. You can also ask for benefits to continue until the appeal is complete. If you receive a notice that your benefits will end, it is important to respond promptly to retain your rights.
What Happens During a CDR?
The disability review process usually starts with the SSA sending a notice and a form to complete. It is critical that you complete the form timely and return in to the SSA. Once the SSA receives information regarding your medical updates, they will request the records and conduct an internal review of the medical evidence. If the SSA decides they need additional information, they may require you to undergo a consultative examination.
Get Help with Your Disability Review or Appeal
If you have received notice that your benefits will be terminated, allow the experienced team at Burgess & Christensen to assist. We understand the evidence the SSA needs to see and we can help you document your continued eligibility for benefits.
Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.
Free evaluation of your case
When you are unable to work, you still need to support yourself and your family. Call us at 770-422-8111 or contact us online. We do not charge any fees until the disability claim is approved and our fees are authorized.