1. What is a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)?

A CDR is a periodic evaluation by the SSA to determine whether your medical condition continues to meet their definition of disability. The purpose is to ensure that:

• Your condition has not improved to the point that you can return to work
• You still qualify under SSA’s medical and technical eligibility rules

2. How Often Are Reviews Conducted?

The frequency of your reviews depends on the severity and expected progression of your condition:

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Review every 6 to 18 months.
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Review approximately every 3 years.
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Review approximately every 5 to 7 years.

Your award notice will typically indicate which category applies to your case.

3. The Disability Review Process Steps

A. Notification

You will receive a CDR notice by mail from SSA explaining:

• That your benefits are under review
• Which forms you need to complete
• The deadline to respond with requested information

B. Completing the Disability Update Report

SSA will send either:

• Short Form (SSA-455): For cases with minimal expected changes
• Long Form (SSA-454): For full medical reviews requiring detailed updates about your condition, treatment, daily activities, and work attempts

C. Reviewing Medical Records

SSA reviews:

• Updated medical records from your doctors, hospitals, and therapists
• Reports from any recent hospitalizations or treatments
• Statements from treating physicians detailing your current limitations

D. Consultative Examination (If Needed)

If SSA does not have enough current medical evidence, they may schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) with an independent doctor to evaluate your condition. Attendance is mandatory, and failure to attend may result in benefit termination.

E. Decision

After the review:

• If SSA determines you remain disabled, your benefits will continue as normal.
• If SSA determines your condition has improved, they may end your benefits. You will receive a notice explaining your appeal rights if this happens.

4. What Triggers a Disability Review?

In addition to scheduled reviews, SSA may conduct a CDR if:

• You return to work or report earnings
• There is evidence suggesting medical improvement
• You inform SSA of health improvements or changes in treatment

5. How Long Does the Review Process Take in Arkansas?

Most CDRs are completed within 3 to 6 months. However, full medical reviews can take longer depending on:

• The complexity of your condition
• How quickly your medical providers respond to SSA record requests
• Whether a Consultative Examination is required

6. How to Prepare for Your Disability Review

To avoid delays or negative outcomes:

• Continue regular treatment with your doctors and specialists
• Keep copies of all medical records, test results, and treatment notes
• Update SSA with any changes in your contact information
• Respond to all SSA requests promptly and thoroughly
• Submit detailed and honest answers about your daily limitations and ongoing symptoms

7. Can You Appeal a Termination After a Review?

Yes. If SSA terminates your benefits after a CDR, you have the right to appeal:

• Request Reconsideration: Must be filed within 60 days of your termination notice.
• Continue Benefits: If you request reconsideration within 10 days, you can continue receiving benefits during the appeal process.