Are You Getting Better? Understanding Your CDR And Social Security
While getting your Social Security claim approved may have been a long and difficult process, you should know that your continued ability to collect benefits is never a sure thing. You will face a process of continuous monitoring of your medical condition that qualified you to get benefits in the first place for as long as you continue to get benefits. There are some variables and exceptions, so read on to learn more about continuing disability reviews (CDR) and what could happen in your case.
When will my CDR occur?
The timing of a CDR depends on your age and on the severity of your medical condition. Younger people who are approved for benefits are evaluated more often than older people, since younger people are regarded as having a greater likelihood of improving enough to return to work.
Some cases, regardless of your age, are just randomly selected for review. In most cases, you can expect to be asked to undergo a CDR about every 3-7 years. The more permanent and serious your condition, the less often you will be reviewed. If you are suffering from paralysis, a terminal illness or other major forms of disability, you may never be reviewed. If you have a condition that could potentially improve, such as a back or head injury, you may face a review every 3 years.
Triggers for a CDR
It's not just your age or particular medical condition that could prompt a CDR request. You may be asked to participate if any of the following occurs:
- Someone turned you into the Social Security Administration (SSA) anonymously. It should be noted that callers to the tip line must be willing to leave their contact information, including their SSN. You, however, will not be provided with that information.
- You have returned to work at your previous job.
- You are earning income that exceeds your limit.
- You have let the SSA know that your condition has improved.
What happens with a CDR?
You must complete and return one of two different form packages that request information about your recent medical treatments and whether or not your condition has shown improvement. You will be asked to show test results and medical records to prove your continuing need for benefits. The SSA will make a determination of either continued benefits or a suspension of benefits.
If your benefits have been unfairly suspended, speak to a Social Security attorney as soon as possible for help getting your payments back on track.