Continuing disability review

A continuing disability review (CDR) is a periodic review performed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure a claimant, who is receiving SSI or SSDI benefits, continues to be impaired. Continuing Disability Reviews are generally performed every 3 to 5 years, although for conditions which are not expected to improve they may be done every 5 to 7 years.

According to the SSA, the goal of a continuing disability review is to "determine whether or not the claimant continues to meet the disability requirement of the law." After the CDR is concluded if the SSA determines the claimant has the ability to return to work because their condition has improved the SSA has the right to terminate the SSDI or SSI benefits of the claimant.

Prior to performing a CDR, the SSA must notify you that a CDR will be conducted and why, they must outline how the medical improvement standard works, what medical documentation must be presented to substantiate your case, they must provide written notification if your benefits are terminated, and they must provide information about how you can appeal the termination.