Continuing Disability Reviews-All You Need To Know

Receivers of social security disability benefits are frequently the subject of ongoing disability evaluations by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To ascertain whether or not you are still qualified for benefits is the goal of the Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR). The degree and severity of your disability, together with other factors, will decide how often your claim will be based on CDRs.

If you get a letter from the SSA saying they will do a CDR, don’t worry too much. It doesn’t mean that your benefits will stop. In fact, 90% of beneficiaries who receive a CDR are approved for continued benefits. However, knowing a bit about CDRs, and the information you will be asked to provide will help you do better with your case and ultimately increase your likelihood of approval.

CDR: The Process

The SSA will ask for new information about your condition or impairment when it is time for your CDR. A few forms of the SSA will be used to submit this information.

You are being re-evaluated in order to determine whether you still meet the non-medical requirements for SSI benefits based on your present financial situation and living circumstances. If the administration believes you are getting an inaccurate amount, it may potentially change your payment.

CDR: Preparation

It is crucial to get ready for an approaching CDR. You should understand how to be prepared when the time comes for your CDR review.

Every time you undergo a continuous disability evaluation with the SSA, keep documentation handy of the supporting evidence you send in. You can use this for future CDR reviews.

It is advised to keep a record of ongoing sessions with one’s medical practitioner and other healthcare professionals. It is advisable to adhere to all medical treatment plans related to disabilities. Patients are advised to inquire with their healthcare provider regarding the appropriate steps for obtaining medical records that demonstrate their adherence to treatment.

CDR: Keep them Updated

Individuals who have experienced a change of residence subsequent to the last CDR must notify the SSA of the updated residential address. The end of your benefits by the SSA may be triggered by a failure to obtain the requisite notification and a subsequently missed deadline for completing the Continuing Disability Review process.

The SSA schedules the majority of cases for periodic assessments at intervals of either three or seven years, contingent upon various factors, including the individual’s age and probability of achieving significant improvement in capability that would facilitate re-entry into the workforce. It is possible to expedite the scheduling of a CDR, even prior to the standard three-year interval, in cases where a medical improvement in the individual’s condition is anticipated. In situations where an individual exhibits a permanent or chronically impaired physical or cognitive condition, such as amputated limbs or intellectual disabilities, the frequency of claim review may be reduced to intervals exceeding seven years.

The best way to handle a CDR is by talking to an experienced social security disability lawyer. If you have doubts or questions about your Continuing Disability Review, we’re here to help. The team at Kenton Koszdin Law Office in Van Nuys has decades of experience navigating the complex California workers’ compensation system and federal Social Security disability system. Call us at 818-293-4980 or contact us online.