If you’re receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you probably know that your benefits aren’t guaranteed forever. From time to time, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will check to see if you’re still disabled. This process is called a Continuing Disability Review — or CDR for short.
It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious when you get that review notice in the mail. But don’t worry — most people keep their benefits as long as they’re still meeting the requirements.
In this post, we’ll explain what a CDR is, when it happens, what to expect, and how to make sure your benefits continue without interruption.
What Is a Continuing Disability Review?
A CDR is a routine review that SSA uses to confirm that you’re still medically eligible for SSD or SSI benefits. They want to know:
- Has your condition improved?
- Are you still unable to work full-time?
- Are you still following your treatment plan?
SSA is required by law to perform these reviews — it’s part of making sure that only those who continue to qualify receive benefits.
How Often Does SSA Do a CDR?
The frequency of your reviews depends on your medical condition:
| SSA Classification | CDR Frequency |
|---|---|
| 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 and form in the mail when it’s time for your review. Always respond on time and keep your contact info updated with SSA so you don’t miss important notices.
What Types of CDRs Are There?
There are two types of reviews:
1. Short Form (SSA-455)
- Mailed to people with conditions unlikely to improve
- It’s a simple form with yes/no questions about your health and work status
- If nothing has changed, you may pass the review without needing to do anything else
2. Long Form (SSA-454)
- Used when SSA needs more detailed information
- Asks about your medical treatment, medications, daily activities, and work history
- You may be asked to provide updated medical records or attend a Consultative Exam
How to Prepare for a CDR
✅ 1. Keep seeing your doctors regularly
Medical treatment is one of the most important ways to show that your condition is ongoing and serious. Skipping appointments or stopping care can raise red flags.
✅ 2. Follow your treatment plan
SSA expects you to follow medical advice unless there’s a good reason not to (like side effects or cost). If you’re not following your treatment, explain why.
✅ 3. Be honest on the forms
Answer all questions truthfully. If your condition has worsened or improved, say so. Don’t exaggerate — but don’t downplay your limitations either.
✅ 4. Submit updated medical records
You don’t have to wait for SSA to request them. If you’ve had recent tests, hospitalizations, or changes in your treatment, include those records with your forms.
✅ 5. Keep a record of your symptoms
A journal or symptom tracker can help you explain how your condition affects your daily life — especially during long-form reviews.
What If SSA Says You’re No Longer Disabled?
If SSA decides you’re no longer disabled, you’ll receive a termination notice. But that doesn’t mean it’s over — you have the right to appeal.
✅ You must act quickly:
- You have 60 days to appeal the decision
- If you appeal within 10 days, you can request that your benefits continue during the appeal process
It’s highly recommended to work with a disability attorney at this point — especially if your benefits are at risk.
Final Thoughts
A Continuing Disability Review may feel stressful, but it’s just part of the process of receiving SSD or SSI benefits.
Most people pass their CDRs and keep their benefits, especially if they:
- Keep up with medical care
- Respond to SSA on time
- Provide honest, detailed information
✅ Preparation is key.
By staying informed and organized, you can handle a CDR with confidence and keep your benefits secure.