1. Why Does SSA Conduct Disability Reviews?

SSA conducts reviews to:

• Ensure recipients continue to meet the medical requirements for disability
• Confirm that beneficiaries are not engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) above allowed limits
• Maintain program integrity and prevent fraudulent payments

2. What Are Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)?

The SSA’s Continuing Disability Review (CDR) process involves periodic evaluations to determine if your medical condition still prevents you from working. There are two types of reviews:

A. Medical CDR

• Focuses on whether your medical condition has improved
• Reviews your treatment, symptoms, and ability to perform work-related activities

B. Work CDR

• Conducted if you are working while receiving disability benefits
• SSA checks to ensure your earnings remain below SGA limits ($1,550 per month in 2025; $2,590 if blind)

3. How Often Are Disability Reviews Conducted in South Carolina?

The frequency of reviews depends on your condition:

• Expected Improvement: Reviewed every 6 to 18 months
• Possible Improvement: Reviewed approximately every 3 years
• Not Expected to Improve: Reviewed every 5 to 7 years

Your award notice will indicate your medical improvement category, giving you an idea of when to expect your next CDR.

4. What Happens During a Medical CDR?

A. Receiving the Review Notice

You will receive a notice from SSA indicating your disability case is under review. This notice includes:

• Instructions for completing required forms
• Deadlines for submission

B. Completing the CDR Forms

You may be asked to complete:

• Short Form (SSA-455): Used if your condition is unlikely to improve. It is a simple self-report to update SSA on your medical and work status.
• Long Form (SSA-454): Used if improvement is expected or possible. This detailed form requires updated information about your:
• Medical treatments and providers
• Recent hospitalizations
• Current medications
• Daily activities and limitations
• Work activities since your last review

C. Providing Medical Records

SSA will request medical records from your doctors, specialists, hospitals, and clinics to evaluate your current condition. Ensure you:

• Continue regular medical care
• Keep detailed documentation of treatments and limitations
• Inform your doctors that SSA will request updated reports

D. Possible Consultative Examination (CE)

If SSA determines that your medical records are insufficient to make a decision, they may schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) with an SSA-approved doctor at no cost to you. Attend this exam to avoid delays or automatic benefit cessation.

5. What Happens After the CDR Is Completed?

SSA will notify you in writing of their decision:

• Benefits Continue: If your condition has not improved enough for you to return to work
• Benefits Cease: If SSA determines that your condition has improved to the point where you can perform SGA. If this occurs, you can appeal within 60 days to continue receiving benefits during your appeal process

6. How to Prepare for Your Disability Review in South Carolina

To ensure a smooth review process:

• Maintain consistent medical treatment and follow-ups
• Keep detailed records of symptoms, limitations, and daily challenges
• Notify SSA of any changes in address, medical providers, or employment status
• Respond to SSA notices promptly and thoroughly