Continuing Disability Reviews Explained: Process, Triggers, and Tips
Your Social Security disability benefits are not permanent. Whether your condition improves over time or remains stable, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will periodically conduct Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs). These reviews are a routine part of the process and are designed to confirm that you continue to meet the requirements for receiving benefits.
If the SSA finds that your condition has improved enough for you to return to work, your payments could stop. But many people continue to receive benefits after a review—especially when they’ve stayed consistent with their treatment and documentation.
You may go through several CDRs while receiving benefits. Understanding how they work and what to expect can help reduce stress and ensure you stay prepared.
What Are Continuing Disability Reviews, and When Do They Happen?
CDRs apply to anyone receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The SSA reviews your health and work history to determine whether your condition still prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). If it does, your benefits will continue.
Most people are informed in their initial approval notice when their first review is expected. The timeline depends on whether the SSA believes your condition is likely to improve:
- 6 to 18 months if your condition is expected to improve
- Every 3 years if improvement is possible
- Every 7 years if improvement is unlikely
In some cases, the SSA may also conduct unscheduled reviews. These might happen if:
- You return to work
- You stop treatment
- Your condition shows signs of improvement
- The SSA needs to update financial eligibility for SSI
- There’s a concern about the accuracy of your original claim
If you’ve received notice of an unscheduled review and aren’t sure why, reviewing your recent medical history or work activity may provide insight into what triggered the update.
What Does the SSA Review?
In most cases, you’ll be asked to complete a Disability Update Report. This short form has seven questions covering:
- Work history over the past two years
- Any changes in your health
- Whether a doctor has cleared you to return to work
- Training or schooling you’ve participated in
- Hospitalizations or surgeries
- Doctor visits
- Interest in rehabilitation programs
Some individuals may be required to complete a more detailed form, the Continuing Disability Review Report, which consists of nine sections. This longer form collects more in-depth information about:
- Your medical history and providers
- Any work or volunteer activity
- Education or training since your last review
- How your condition affects your daily life
If you’re receiving SSI, a CDR may also include a redetermination to verify that your income and assets still meet the eligibility guidelines.
The SSA may reach out with follow-up questions or requests for additional details. This is a routine part of the process and helps ensure accurate decisions are made based on current information.
Tips for Navigating Continuing Disability Reviews
A CDR is not meant to start from scratch. You don’t need to re-prove your original disability. The SSA is mainly checking to see if you’ve had significant medical improvement.
Here are some ways to help your review go smoothly:
- Be Honest: Always answer truthfully about your condition, work activity, and treatment. Inaccurate or incomplete information can cause delays or affect your benefits.
- Check Your Contact Info: Make sure your mailing address and phone number are current. If you have a representative, confirm their contact info is accurate, too.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Read through the form and fill it out completely. If you’re unsure how to answer a question, get help before submitting.
- Submit it on Time: Missing your deadline could result in a suspension of benefits. Be sure to respond promptly.
- Keep Up With Treatment: Regular medical care and updated records help confirm that your condition hasn’t improved. Missed appointments or long treatment gaps can raise questions.
- Track Your Work and Income: If you’ve worked at all, keep a record of your hours and earnings. This can help clarify your activity during the review process.
Final Thoughts
A Continuing Disability Review is a standard part of receiving SSDI or SSI benefits. With the right preparation—clear documentation, consistent treatment, and timely communication—you can approach the review process with confidence. Staying informed is the first step toward protecting your benefits.
