Understanding Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)

The SSA performs periodic assessments to:

• Review medical evidence to check if your condition has improved.
• Determine ongoing eligibility for SSDI benefits.

When Benefits May Be Stopped

Benefits might end if:

• Your improvement leads SSA to find you can engage in substantial gainful activity.
• Medical exams or records show increased ability to work.
• You fail to comply with SSA review requests or evaluations.

Protection During the Review Process

You are entitled to:

• Notice of any proposed benefit termination before changes are made.
• The right to appeal decisions if benefits are stopped.
• Access to medical and legal assistance during appeals.

Impact of Return to Work

Starting or increasing work activity can lead to:

• An assessment of earnings to see if they exceed SSA limits.
• A potential cessation of benefits if you earn too much.

Common Misconceptions

Keep in mind:

• Your benefits do not end automatically with minor improvements.
• SSA conducts thorough evaluations before stopping payments.
• Always report changes honestly to avoid penalties.