What is a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)?

A Continuing Disability Review (CDR) is the SSA’s process of reviewing your medical condition to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria for Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA conducts these reviews to determine whether your disability has improved, whether you can return to work, or whether you continue to meet the SSA’s definition of disability.

How Often Does the SSA Conduct a Review?

The frequency of a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) depends on several factors, including the nature of your disability and the likelihood of improvement. Generally, the SSA follows these guidelines:

• Medical improvement expected: If your condition is expected to improve, the SSA will conduct a review every 6 to 18 months. This is common for individuals with conditions that might improve over time (e.g., injuries or certain types of cancer).
• Medical improvement possible: For conditions where medical improvement is uncertain, the SSA typically conducts a review every 3 years. This is common for individuals with conditions that may improve but whose recovery is uncertain (e.g., mental health disorders).
• Medical improvement not expected: If your condition is considered permanent or unlikely to improve, the SSA will generally review your case every 5 to 7 years. This is common for individuals with chronic or severe disabilities, such as certain types of brain injuries, amputations, or long-term illnesses like multiple sclerosis.

What Happens During a Continuing Disability Review?

During a Continuing Disability Review, the SSA will evaluate whether you still meet the definition of disability. This may involve:

• Reviewing your medical records: The SSA will look at your latest medical records, including doctors' notes, lab results, and any other relevant documents.
• Completing a questionnaire: You may be asked to fill out forms or questionnaires that detail your condition, treatment, and daily activities.
• Potential consultative exams: If the SSA needs more information about your condition, they may require you to attend a consultative exam with a doctor chosen by the SSA.

Based on this review, the SSA will decide if your disability benefits should continue, be reduced, or be stopped.

How Can I Prepare for a Continuing Disability Review?

To ensure the best outcome for your Continuing Disability Review, consider the following:

• Keep up with medical treatment: Regular visits to your doctor and following prescribed treatments will help provide up-to-date medical records that support the severity of your condition.
• Keep a record of your symptoms: Document any changes in your symptoms or condition. This can help demonstrate that you still meet the SSA’s disability criteria.
• Report any changes: If your condition improves or if you return to work, it’s essential to notify the SSA to avoid potential overpayments or complications with your benefits.

What Happens If My Disability Benefits Are Stopped?

If the SSA determines that you no longer meet the requirements for disability benefits during a CDR, your benefits may be stopped. However, you have the right to appeal this decision. If your benefits are terminated:

• Request reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeal process, where the SSA will review your case again.
• Request a hearing: If reconsideration does not result in a favorable outcome, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to present your case in person.
• Submit new medical evidence: If you have new medical records that support your claim, they can help strengthen your case during the appeal process.