By Chris Sharry on November 13th, 2025 in Disability, Social Security Disability
The Social Security Administration (SSA) periodically evaluates every disability recipient to determine whether they still meet the medical requirements for benefits. This evaluation is called a Continuing Disability Review (CDR). For individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a CDR is a standard part of the system—not a sign that something is wrong. Its purpose is to confirm that a person’s condition remains severe enough to prevent substantial work activity. Attorney Chris Sharry assists disability recipients in understanding and preparing for this process to protect their benefits.
How Often Does the SSA Conduct a CDR?
The timing of CDRs depends on the nature of a person’s medical condition:
- Every 6–18 months if medical improvement is expected
- Every 3 years if improvement is possible
- Every 5–7 years if improvement is not expected
The SSA evaluates both medical and work-related information to determine whether a recipient still qualifies for disability benefits.
What Does a CDR Review?
A CDR looks at whether your medical condition has improved and whether you can now perform substantial gainful activity. SSA may review:
- Updated medical records
- Treatment history
- New diagnoses or changes in your condition
- Work activity, including part-time or trial work
- Statements from doctors, therapists, and caregivers
The review is not meant to disqualify people unfairly. Rather, it ensures the SSA continues benefits only for individuals who remain medically eligible.
What Happens During the CDR Process?
The review typically follows these steps:
- Initial Notice
You receive a letter informing you that your case is being reviewed. SSA may send a short form (for limited reviews) or a long form (for full medical reviews). - Completing the Forms
You must provide detailed information about medical treatment, medications, daily activities, and work since your last review. Accuracy is essential. - Medical Records Review
SSA contacts your medical providers for updated records. If the information is incomplete or unclear, SSA may schedule a consultative examination, where an independent doctor evaluates your condition. - Decision Making
SSA determines whether your medical condition has improved enough for you to engage in substantial work. If not, benefits continue. - Reconsideration and Appeals
If benefits are terminated, you have the right to appeal and in many cases, you may keep benefits during the appeal if you act quickly.
What Are Key Factors SSA Considers During a CDR?
SSA focuses on:
- Medical improvement: Has your condition measurably improved?
- Ability to work: Can you now perform work you could not previously do?
- Compliance with treatment: Are you following prescribed medical treatment?
- Consistency: Do your medical records align with your statements about daily functioning?
Medical improvement alone is not grounds to stop benefits. SSA stops benefits only if improvement relates to the ability to work.
How Can You Prepare for a CDR?
While recipients cannot avoid CDRs, being prepared can greatly reduce stress and improve outcomes. Some effective steps include:
- Maintain consistent medical treatment. Gaps in treatment can be misinterpreted as improvement.
- Keep detailed records. Document symptoms, functional limitations, and medication side effects.
- Update your doctors. Ensure your providers understand your limitations and document them clearly.
- Save past SSA decisions and forms. They can help you accurately complete new questionnaires.
- Consult an attorney. An experienced disability attorney can help ensure your forms, medical records, and evidence are strong and complete.
- Respond promptly to SSA requests. Missing deadlines can jeopardize benefits.
Why Legal Guidance Matters During a CDR
A CDR can feel overwhelming, especially when your financial security depends on continued benefits. Many denials result not from actual improvement but from incomplete paperwork or poorly documented medical evidence. Legal representation helps prevent these avoidable issues.
If you have received a notice of a Continuing Disability Review, or if you want to prepare for one, the Social Security disability law office of Attorney Chris Sharry can help. Contact Attorney Sharry today for guidance, document preparation, and representation to help protect your disability benefits.
