Obtaining Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is a struggle for many. Once your claim is approved, you might breathe a sigh of relief. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts regular continuing disability reviews, called CDRs. At base, a CDR checks whether you continue to qualify for benefits by looking at the nature of your disability and its ongoing impact.
Although more than 90% of people pass their CDR, some will see SSA cut off their benefits. Please call Gallo, Cazort, and Co. today to discuss your case with anArkansas SSDI lawyer. You can fight any cessation of benefits if you can establish that you continue to deserve them.
How Frequent are Continuing Disability Reviews?
Beneficiaries will have regular CDRs. The frequency will depend on whether SSA expects you to recover:
- If SSA expects medical improvement, you could have a CDR every 6-18 months.
- If improvement is possible, then you can undergo a CDR every 3 years.
- If SSA doesn’t expect improvement, then you will only have a CDR once every 5-7 years.
A child receiving benefits will also automatically have a CDR when they turn 18 so that SSA can judge their disability according to adult standards.
Sometimes, a CDR is triggered by an event, such as your return to work or if you report to SSA that your condition has improved. SSA can also schedule a CDR if they gain information that you aren’t following your treatment plan, or if a new treatment enters the market which could improve your medical condition.
The Continuing Disability Review Process
SSA will request updated medical records for review. In particular, the agency is checking the nature of your ongoing disability, including whether it has improved enough that you can return to substantial gainful activity.
For example, you might have gone on SSDI benefits for a back injury. But you have now had spinal fusion surgery, which has dramatically reduced the pain. SSA could find that your condition has improved to the point where you could return to work.
SSA will mail you a form requesting information about your medical treatment and work history. You need to complete the form and send it back within 30 days, so don’t delay. SSA could suspend your benefits if you don’t participate in the Continuing Disability Review.
Once SSA reviews your information, they will notify you whether your benefits will continue or if you need to participate in a full medical review.
Should You Fear the CDR?
Generally, no. More than 90% of those undergoing CDR are approved for continuing benefits. SSA has the burden of proving your condition has improved to the point where you can engage in substantial gainful activity.
If, by chance, your benefits are discontinued, you can appeal the decision. An Administrative Law Judge will decide your case after reviewing evidence.
Speak with an Arkansas SSDI Attorney
SSDI benefits provide a valuable financial cushion for many. Don’t lose your ability to receive benefits for a serious disability. CallGallo, Cazort, and Co. today to speak with a lawyer.