If you’re receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may be wondering:
“Can my benefits be taken away?”
The short answer is:
✅ Yes, but only under certain circumstances.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) periodically reviews your case to make sure you still qualify for benefits. This process is called a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) — and it’s a normal part of the system.
In this post, we’ll explain what triggers a review, what can lead to a loss of benefits, and how to protect your case.
What Is a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)?
A Continuing Disability Review is SSA’s way of checking whether:
- You’re still medically disabled
- You’re still meeting income and resource limits (for SSI)
- You’re still unable to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
CDRs happen at different intervals depending on your condition.
When Will My Case Be Reviewed?
How often your case is reviewed depends on how likely SSA thinks you are to improve:
| SSA’s Classification | Review Timeline |
|---|---|
| Expected to Improve | Every 6–18 months |
| Possible to Improve | Every 3 years |
| Not Expected to Improve | Every 5–7 years |
✅ You’ll receive a letter in the mail before a review. You’ll need to complete paperwork and possibly provide updated medical records.
What Triggers a Review?
A review can happen at regular intervals, or it can be triggered by changes in your situation. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Medical Improvement
If SSA receives information suggesting your condition has improved, they may schedule a review earlier than planned.
This could include:
- Reports from doctors
- Return to work activity
- Evidence that you’re no longer following prescribed treatment
2. Returning to Work
Working while on SSD or SSI can trigger a review — especially if your earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit (about $1,550/month in 2025 for most people).
✅ SSA encourages people to try working through programs like the Trial Work Period, but you must follow the rules carefully to avoid problems.
3. Failure to Follow Treatment
If you stop following your doctor’s prescribed treatment without a valid reason, SSA may question whether your condition is truly disabling.
4. Earning Too Much (SSI Only)
For SSI recipients, your income and resources are monitored monthly.
Your SSI may be reduced or stopped if:
- You start earning more money
- Someone gives you free housing or food
- Your bank balance goes over the $2,000 asset limit ($3,000 for couples)
5. Incomplete Paperwork
Failing to return review forms, attend consultative exams, or respond to SSA letters can lead to benefits being suspended or stopped — even if you’re still disabled.
✅ Always respond to SSA requests promptly and completely.
Can You Lose Benefits After a Review?
Yes, but it’s not common — especially if:
- Your medical condition has not improved
- You’re continuing to get regular treatment
- You’re honest about your limitations
- You comply with SSA’s requirements
If SSA determines you are no longer disabled, you’ll receive a letter explaining the decision and your right to appeal.
✅ You have 60 days to appeal a termination, and your benefits may continue during the appeal if you act quickly.
How to Protect Your Benefits
Here are a few tips to keep your SSD or SSI benefits secure:
- Keep seeing your doctor regularly
- Follow your prescribed treatment
- Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA right away
- Be honest and accurate on all forms
- Keep copies of your medical records and SSA correspondence
- Ask for help from a disability advocate or attorney if you’re unsure what to do
Final Thoughts
Yes, SSD or SSI benefits can be taken away — but only if your situation changes or you stop meeting the requirements.
Most people who continue to receive medical care and follow SSA rules keep their benefits without interruption.
If you get a review notice, don’t panic. Just take it seriously, submit everything on time, and keep your medical records up to date.
And if you ever get a notice that your benefits are being reduced or stopped, don’t wait — reach out for help and file an appeal right away.