Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides essential benefits for individuals unable to work due to a disability. Periodic reviews ensure that recipients still qualify for benefits. Understanding the review process can help you prepare and respond appropriately to maintain your benefits.
What is an SSDI review?
An SSDI review, also known as a Continuing Disability Review (CDR), evaluates whether you still meet the medical and work-related criteria for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts these reviews to confirm that recipients continue to qualify for assistance.
How often are reviews conducted?
The frequency of SSDI reviews depends on the nature of your disability and the likelihood of improvement. The SSA assigns one of three categories to your case:
- Medical improvement expected: Reviews occur every six to 18 months.
- Medical improvement possible: Reviews occur every three years.
- Medical improvement not expected: Reviews occur every seven years or longer.
What happens during a review?
During a review, the SSA requests updated information about your medical condition, treatment, and work activity. You may need to fill out forms or provide recent medical records. The SSA evaluates whether your condition has improved enough to allow you to work.
Can work activity affect your SSDI review?
Earning more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which changes annually, can trigger a review and may lead to a suspension of benefits. However, the SSA allows work incentives, like trial work periods, to encourage recipients to test their ability to work without losing benefits immediately.
What happens if benefits are stopped?
If the SSA determines you no longer qualify for SSDI benefits, you can appeal the decision. While appealing, you may request that your benefits continue during the process, but you may need to repay them if the appeal is unsuccessful.
SSDI reviews ensure that benefits go to those who need them most. Understanding the process and providing accurate information helps you maintain your benefits and navigate the system with confidence.
