1. Why Does SSA Conduct Disability Reviews?

The SSA is required by law to review disability recipients’ cases to:

• Ensure only qualified individuals continue receiving benefits
• Detect medical improvement that could affect eligibility
• Prevent and reduce improper payments

2. How Often Will Your Disability Be Reviewed?

The frequency of reviews depends on the expected likelihood of medical improvement:

Medical Improvement Expected (MIE)

• Review scheduled within 6-18 months after approval
• Used for conditions likely to improve, such as recovery after surgery or certain injuries

Medical Improvement Possible (MIP)

• Review every 3 years
• For conditions where improvement is possible but not certain, such as mental health disorders or autoimmune conditions

Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE)

• Review every 5 to 7 years
• For severe, permanent conditions such as advanced cancers, ALS, or profound intellectual disabilities

3. What Happens During a Continuing Disability Review in California?

A. Receiving the CDR Notice

You will receive a notice from SSA stating your benefits are under review. The notice will include forms you need to complete and return by the stated deadline.

B. Completing the Forms

The form depends on the type of review:

• Short Form (SSA-455 Disability Update Report): Used for many routine reviews. It asks about your recent medical treatment, work activities, and any changes in your condition.
• Long Form (SSA-454 Continuing Disability Review Report): Used if SSA needs more detailed information. It asks for all medical sources, treatments, tests, and work attempts since your last review.

Complete all sections honestly and thoroughly, providing updated doctor names, addresses, and treatment details.

C. Medical Record Review

SSA reviews:

• Your submitted forms
• Recent medical records from your doctors, hospitals, and clinics
• Any consultative examination results if SSA orders additional evaluations

D. Decision

SSA will decide:

• Continue benefits: If your medical condition has not improved enough for you to work
• Stop benefits: If your condition has improved to the point that you can engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which in 2025 is $1,550 per month ($2,590 if blind)

You will receive a notice explaining their decision and your rights to appeal.

4. What If Your Benefits Are Terminated After a Review?

If SSA determines you are no longer disabled:

• You will receive a termination notice explaining why
• You have 60 days to appeal the decision
• You can request that benefits continue during your appeal, but you must request this within 10 days of receiving the notice

5. How to Prepare for a Disability Review

To improve your chances of a favorable review outcome:

• Continue regular medical treatment and follow all prescribed therapies
• Maintain updated medical records, including specialist evaluations and treatment notes
• Keep a record of any symptoms or limitations that impact your daily life
• Inform your doctors that SSA may request information about your condition and work limitations

6. Does Working Trigger a Review?

Reporting new work activity will not automatically end your benefits, but it may prompt SSA to conduct a review to determine if you can perform Substantial Gainful Activity. Work incentives such as the Ticket to Work Program allow some individuals to try working while keeping benefits during trial periods.

7. How Long Does the Disability Review Process Take?

• Short Form CDR: Often completed within 1-3 months
• Long Form CDR: May take 3-6 months or longer if additional evaluations are needed