1. What Is a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)?

A Continuing Disability Review is SSA’s way of ensuring that only individuals who remain disabled continue to receive benefits. The review evaluates:

• Whether your medical condition has improved
• If you can now engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

2. How Often Does SSA Conduct Reviews?

The frequency of reviews depends on your condition:

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Review every 6 to 18 months
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Review approximately every 3 years
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Review every 5 to 7 years

Your award notice will state your expected review category.

3. What Happens During a Disability Review?

A. Receiving the Review Notice

SSA will mail you a notice indicating that your claim is under review. You will receive:

• A short-form mailer (SSA-455) if you are categorized as MINE or your case appears stable
• A full CDR form (SSA-454) if SSA needs a comprehensive review

B. Completing the Disability Update Report

If you receive the SSA-455 short form:

• Answer questions about your current medical treatment, work activity, and daily functioning
• SSA may decide no further review is needed if there are no changes

C. Full Medical Review

If your case requires a full review:

• Complete the SSA-454: Continuing Disability Review Report
• Provide detailed updates about:
• Your current medical condition and symptoms
• Recent treatments and medications
• Visits to doctors, clinics, hospitals, or therapy providers
• Work activity, volunteer work, or training programs
• SSA will request updated medical records from your providers
• You may be scheduled for a Consultative Examination (CE) if SSA needs additional medical evidence

4. What Are the Possible Outcomes of a CDR?

After reviewing your updated medical evidence, SSA will decide:

• Benefits continue: If your condition has not improved enough for you to work
• Benefits end: If your condition has medically improved and you can engage in substantial gainful activity

You will receive a written notice explaining SSA’s decision.

5. What If Your Benefits Are Stopped After a Review?

If SSA determines you are no longer disabled:

• You have the right to appeal the decision within 60 days
• You can request to continue receiving benefits during your appeal if you file within 10 days of receiving the cessation notice

Your benefits will continue until a final decision is made, but if SSA upholds the termination, you may be required to repay those benefits.

6. How to Prepare for a Disability Review

To protect your benefits:

• Continue regular medical treatment with all providers
• Maintain updated records of doctor visits, medications, and treatments
• Follow your doctors’ recommendations and document any limitations or symptoms affecting daily life
• Keep copies of all SSA correspondence and completed forms
• If you receive a CDR form, complete it accurately and return it promptly