1. Why Are Disability Reviews Conducted?

Disability reviews, also called Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), ensure that:

• You still meet the medical requirements for disability benefits
• Your condition has not improved enough for you to return to substantial work

These reviews are mandated by federal law to prevent payment errors and ensure program integrity.

2. Frequency of Disability Reviews

The frequency of your review depends on the likelihood of medical improvement, as determined at the time of your initial approval:

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Reviewed every 6-18 months
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Reviewed approximately every 3 years
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Reviewed every 5-7 years

For example, if you have a condition expected to improve, such as certain injuries or recoverable illnesses, reviews will occur more frequently. If you have severe, permanent conditions like late-stage cancer or advanced neurological disorders, reviews are scheduled less often.

3. What Triggers a Disability Review?

Reviews may occur as scheduled or be triggered by:

• Reports of Work Activity: If SSA learns you are working above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level
• Medical Improvement Reports: If there is evidence your condition has improved
• Age 18 Redetermination: SSI recipients approved as children are re-evaluated under adult disability rules upon turning 18

4. What Happens During a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)?

A. You Receive a Notice

SSA will mail you a notification stating your disability case is under review and will provide a form to complete.

B. Completing the Forms

You will fill out either:

• Short Form (SSA-455): For cases with minimal likelihood of improvement, asking about recent medical visits, treatments, and work activity
• Long Form (SSA-454): For more detailed reviews, requiring full updates on medical conditions, doctor visits, hospitalizations, medications, and any work activities since your last review

C. Submitting Medical Evidence

SSA may request medical records directly from your healthcare providers. You should:

• Continue regular medical treatment
• Keep records of appointments, prescriptions, and therapy
• Ensure your doctors document any functional limitations accurately

D. Possible Consultative Examination (CE)

If current medical records are insufficient, SSA may schedule a consultative examination (CE) with an approved doctor to assess your condition’s severity and limitations.

E. The Decision

After reviewing your file, SSA will decide:

• Benefits Continue: If your condition has not improved or improvement does not affect your ability to work
• Benefits End: If they determine you have medically improved and can engage in substantial gainful activity

5. What If Benefits Are Terminated?

If SSA decides you are no longer disabled:

• You will receive a notice explaining the decision
• You can appeal within 60 days to continue your benefits during the appeal process
• The appeal includes reconsideration, hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), and further appeals if necessary

6. How to Prepare for a Disability Review

To maintain benefits:

• Attend All Medical Appointments: Regular treatment shows you are managing your condition seriously
• Follow Prescribed Treatments: SSA expects you to follow medical advice unless you have valid reasons not to
• Keep Detailed Records: Document your symptoms, limitations, medication side effects, and impacts on daily activities
• Report Changes Promptly: Inform SSA of changes in address, income, work activity, or medical condition