What Is a Disability Redetermination?

There are two types of reviews the SSA may conduct:

• SSI Redetermination (non-medical): This focuses on your income, resources, and living arrangements, not your medical condition. It typically occurs every 1–6 years.
• Continuing Disability Review (CDR): This is a medical review to determine if your condition still qualifies as a disability under SSA rules. It can happen every 3 to 7 years, depending on your case.

What Triggers a Redetermination?

You might undergo a redetermination if:

• A certain amount of time has passed since your last review.
• SSA receives information that your income, assets, or health status may have changed.
• You report a change (like improved health or new income).
• A scheduled CDR is due.

What to Expect in an SSI Redetermination (Non-Medical Review)

• You’ll be contacted by SSA: Usually by phone or mail.
• Provide updated financial info: This includes bank statements, pay stubs, rent or mortgage info, utility bills, and more.
• Review living situation: SSA will confirm who lives with you and whether you receive financial help from others.
• Proof of changes: If anything about your finances, housing, or resources has changed, be ready to provide documentation.

What to Expect in a Continuing Disability Review (Medical CDR)

• Short-form CDR (mail-in): If SSA believes you’re unlikely to improve, you’ll complete a basic Disability Update Report.
• Long-form CDR: If improvement is possible, SSA may request a full review that includes updated medical records and, possibly, a consultative exam.

Be ready to submit:

• Current medical records
• Doctor’s notes on your progress (or lack thereof)
• A list of medications and treatments
• Statements about your functional limitations

Possible Outcomes of a Redetermination

• No change: You’ll continue receiving benefits.
• Adjustment: Your benefit amount may increase or decrease.
• Termination: If SSA finds you no longer meet the medical or non-medical requirements, they may stop your benefits.

You’ll have the right to appeal if benefits are reduced or terminated.

Tips to Prepare for a Redetermination

• Stay organized: Keep copies of medical records, bills, and correspondence from SSA.
• Keep SSA updated: Report changes in income, resources, or health as soon as they happen.
• Stay consistent with treatment: Continued medical care shows that your condition still affects you.