When an individual is approved for Social Security Disability , it often marks the end of a long and challenging application process. However, it is also the beginning of an important phase: the ongoing review of their disability status. Social Security Disability reviews, often referred to as Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), are conducted to ensure that beneficiaries continue to meet the medical and non-medical criteria for receiving benefits. Understanding the review process is crucial for those who have recently been approved, as it can affect their financial stability and access to necessary medical care.
The Importance of Continuing Disability Reviews
The Social Security Disability in California emphasizes the need for periodic reviews to safeguard the integrity of the SSD program. CDRs are designed to ensure that individuals receiving benefits still have qualifying disabilities that prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA typically conducts these reviews every three to seven years, depending on the individual’s condition. Some beneficiaries may be reviewed more frequently if their condition is expected to improve, while others with more severe, permanent disabilities may face less frequent scrutiny.
The Review Process
Once a CDR is initiated, the SSA will typically send the beneficiary a notice informing them that their case is being reviewed. This notice will outline the information required for the review, which may include updated medical records, information about current treatment, and details regarding any changes in the beneficiary’s work status. Beneficiaries must complete a “Disability Update Report,” which includes questions about their medical condition, medications, treatment, and any work activities since the last review.
The SSA uses the information provided to assess whether the beneficiary still qualifies for SSDI. This process may involve contacting healthcare providers for medical records or additional documentation. The SSA may also schedule a consultative examination if there are questions regarding the current severity of the disability.
Potential Outcomes of a Review
After the review process is completed, the SSA will notify the beneficiary of its decision. There are several possible outcomes:
- Continued Eligibility: If the SSA determines that the beneficiary still meets the criteria for disability, their benefits will continue without interruption.
- Temporary Benefits: In some cases, the SSA may find that while the beneficiary’s condition has improved, they still cannot engage in SGA. In such instances, benefits may continue for a limited time, typically with a reevaluation scheduled for the near future.
- Discontinuation of Benefits: If the SSA concludes that the individual has sufficiently improved to the point that they can work, benefits will be terminated. This decision can be distressing, particularly if the individual is not yet ready to return to work or lacks alternative income sources.
What to Do if Benefits Are Terminated
Beneficiaries have the right to appeal the SSA’s decision if their benefits are discontinued. The appeals process includes several stages, beginning with a request for reconsideration, followed by a hearing before an administrative law judge if necessary. It’s essential for beneficiaries to gather relevant medical evidence and documentation to support their case during this process.
Walker Firm, operating under the client-facing brand Casa de la Justicia, helps Spanish-speaking clients with their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. Based in Los Angeles, CA, and founded in 2022, we maintain a remarkable over 70% hearing win rate, surpassing the national average of 55%. With our robust media strategy, we attract over 2,000 clients annually. In addition, we partner with other local attorneys to ensure the thousands of injured Latinos that call us daily have access to experienced Spanish-speaking attorneys for all their needs, including worker’s compensation, auto accidents and slip and fall cases. For expert SSDI support and broader legal services, we are your go-to resource.
Being approved for Social Security Disability benefits is a significant milestone, but beneficiaries must remain vigilant about their ongoing eligibility. Understanding the Continuing Disability Review process is essential for managing expectations and ensuring that they can continue to receive the support they need. Regular communication with healthcare providers, keeping detailed medical records, and being proactive about any changes in their condition can all play a vital role in successfully navigating this important phase of the SSDI program.