Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)

How often reviews may happen

SSA generally assigns a review diary based on whether medical improvement is expected. If improvement is expected, a review is generally scheduled about 6 to 18 months after the most recent decision. If improvement is possible but cannot be predicted, reviews are generally at least every 3 years. If the impairment is considered permanent, reviews are generally no more often than every 5 years and at least once every 7 years. These are scheduling rules, not guarantees of an exact review date; backlogs and case circumstances can affect timing.

SSA can also start a review when information raises a question about whether disability continues. Work activity may be reviewed under separate work rules. A CDR may require forms, updated treatment information, or another examination.

The medical-improvement standard

In most medical CDRs, SSA compares current evidence with the evidence from the most recent favorable decision. Medical improvement generally means a decrease in the medical severity of the impairment, shown by changes in symptoms, signs, or laboratory findings. The improvement must usually relate to the ability to work, and SSA generally must also find that you can engage in substantial gainful activity under the applicable rules.

There are regulatory exceptions to the usual medical-improvement review, including certain situations involving failure to cooperate or other specified circumstances. The rules can differ by benefit program and case history, so read the notice and the specific explanation SSA gives for its decision.

What to do if SSA says benefits should stop

Read the notice immediately. You generally have 60 days after receiving an unfavorable determination to request reconsideration. In a medical cessation case, there is also a separate, much shorter deadline to elect continued benefits while the appeal is pending: SSA’s rules generally require the request within 10 days after you receive the notice, with five days allowed for mailing under SSA procedures (usually 15 calendar days from the notice date). The continued-benefit election does not replace or extend the 60-day appeal deadline.

If you want benefits to continue during the appeal, contact SSA promptly and follow the notice’s instructions for requesting both reconsideration and continuation. Continued payments may have to be repaid if the final decision is unfavorable, subject to the applicable waiver rules. If you miss a deadline, ask SSA about good cause and file the appeal as soon as possible rather than assuming you have no options.

Reconsideration after a denial or cessationAppeals process overview

Respond to review requests and keep records

Return requested forms by the stated date, keep copies, and provide current treatment information and contact details for your medical sources. Describe changes in your condition and daily functioning accurately. If SSA schedules an exam or asks for records, contact the agency promptly if you need help, an accommodation, or more time.