1. Purpose of the Disability Review Process

The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts periodic reviews to:

• Verify that your medical condition still meets SSA’s definition of disability
• Ensure that beneficiaries are not engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) beyond allowed limits

The frequency of these reviews depends on your condition and the likelihood of improvement.

2. Types of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)

A. Medical CDR

When conducted:

• Every 6-18 months if improvement is expected
• Every 3 years if improvement is possible
• Every 5-7 years if improvement is not expected

Process:

• SSA mails you a Disability Update Report (Form SSA-455) or a full medical review form.
• You provide updated information on your medical condition, treatments, tests, and daily activities.
• SSA may request updated medical records from your doctors or send you for a consultative examination (CE) with an SSA-appointed doctor.

Decision:

• If SSA finds your condition still prevents work, benefits continue.
• If improvement is found sufficient for work, benefits may be terminated.

B. Work CDR

If you are working while receiving disability benefits, SSA conducts a work review to:

• Determine if your earnings exceed Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits.
• In 2025, SGA is $1,550 per month ($2,590 for blind beneficiaries).
• Review whether you are eligible for continued benefits under work incentive programs such as Trial Work Period (TWP) or Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE).

3. Key Steps in the Disability Review Process

Step 1: Receiving Notice

You will receive a notice in the mail indicating that SSA is reviewing your case. Read the notice carefully for deadlines and required documents.

Step 2: Completing Forms

SSA may send:

• Short Disability Update Report (SSA-455): Basic questions about your medical condition and work status
• Long Form (SSA-454): Requires detailed updates on medical treatments, doctors, medications, tests, and daily living activities

Return forms by the deadline provided to avoid interruptions in your benefits.

Step 3: Medical Records Review

SSA will:

• Review updated medical records from your treating physicians and specialists
• Evaluate whether your condition has improved enough to return to work
• Possibly schedule a consultative examination with an SSA-appointed doctor if further evaluation is needed

Step 4: Decision Notice

After the review:

• You will receive a written notice stating whether benefits will continue or stop.
• If SSA determines your disability has medically improved to the point you can work, your benefits will end after a grace period.
• You have the right to appeal the decision if you disagree with it.

4. Tips to Prepare for a Disability Review

• Continue medical treatment regularly and follow all prescribed care.
• Maintain detailed medical records, including treatment dates, doctor visits, test results, and medication lists.
• Respond promptly to all SSA forms and requests.
• Keep copies of all forms and correspondence submitted to SSA.
• If working, keep detailed records of hours, duties, and income, and understand SSA work incentive programs to avoid unintentional benefit termination.

5. What Happens If Benefits Are Stopped?

If SSA stops your benefits:

• You can appeal within 60 days of the decision.
• If you appeal within 10 days, you can request that your benefits continue during the appeal process.
• During appeals, submit additional medical records, doctor statements, and functional capacity evaluations to strengthen your case.