By Chris Sharry on August 2nd, 2024 in Disability, Social Security Disability
A Continuing Disability Review is not an uncommon event. The Social Security Administration (SSA) periodically reviews the claims of beneficiaries of disability benefits. The law requires that Social Security review your case from time to time to determine if you still meet the criteria to qualify for benefits. In most cases, you will continue to receive benefits as long as you have a disability. If the results of the continuing disability review indicate that your medical condition has improved and you can return to full-time work, Social Security will terminate your disability benefits.
According to Social Security, when they will conduct these reviews depends on your age and if medical improvement is expected.
If medical improvement is:
- Expected, SSA will normally review your medical condition within 6 to 18 months after the decision.
- Possible, SSA will normally review your medical condition about every 3 years.
- Not expected, SSA will normally review your medical condition about every 7 years.
Your initial notice of award should give you an idea of when to expect a continuing disability review. It is recommended that you follow through and continue with recommended medical treatment.
What Can Cause Benefits to Stop?
Two things can cause SSA to suspend or stop disability benefits:
- If, after completing a 9-month Trial Work Period (TWP), you work and earn at a level SSA considers substantial.
During the 36-month re-entitlement period after you complete the TWP, SSA will suspend cash benefits for the months your earnings are over the substantial level. If your work and earnings fall below the substantial level in that period, SSA can start benefits again. In 2024, average earnings of $1,550 or more per month ($2,590 or more per month if you are blind) are usually considered substantial. The amount of earnings that are considered substantial changes each year. Benefits will end if work and earnings are above the substantial level after the 36-month re-entitlement period.
- If SSA decides that your medical condition has improved and you no longer have a disability.
If you have questions about a continuing disability review or would like assistance obtaining disability benefits, please contact Attorney Chris Sharry for an evaluation of your case.
