What Is a CDR?

A Continuing Disability Review is the SSA’s way of confirming whether you still meet the medical requirements to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

• For most adults, reviews occur every 3 to 7 years, depending on the likelihood of improvement.
• For children, reviews are typically conducted every few years or at age 18.

How to Respond to a CDR

Respond Immediately

• Don't ignore the notice. You usually have 30 days to return the forms.
• Failing to respond can result in a suspension or termination of your benefits.

Tip: Even if you think you don't have new information, submit the completed forms on time.

Complete the Forms Accurately and Honestly

The two most common forms are:

• SSA-455: Short Form CDR Report.
• SSA-454: Full Medical Review Report (more detailed).

When filling out these forms:

• Be honest about your current medical condition, symptoms, and limitations.
• Update your information about doctor visits, treatments, medications, and hospitalizations.
• List all current doctors and clinics where you've received treatment.

Mistakes, omissions, or inconsistencies can delay the process or raise red flags.

Gather Recent Medical Evidence

Strong medical documentation is critical to a successful review. Gather:

• Updated treatment records.
• Notes from all specialists you've seen.
• Test results (X-rays, MRIs, lab reports).
• Written statements from your treating physicians describing your limitations and prognosis.

Make sure the records are recent, comprehensive, and support your ongoing disability.

Stay Consistent with Previous Claims

Ensure your current information aligns with your original disability claim unless you’ve had legitimate changes. Any improvement should be documented appropriately and explained with medical support if it does not fully restore your ability to work.

Attend Any Requested Medical Exams

The SSA may schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) with a doctor they select.

• You must attend or risk losing benefits.
• Prepare to explain your limitations clearly during the exam.

Tip: Be honest but not overly optimistic about your abilities during the exam.

Keep Copies of Everything

Always keep a copy of:

• Completed forms.
• Medical records.
• Correspondence with the SSA.

Documentation will help if you need to appeal an unfavorable decision.

What If You Disagree with the CDR Outcome?

If your benefits are stopped after a CDR:

• You can appeal the decision.
• You must file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days.
• Request benefit continuation within 10 days if you want payments to continue during the appeal.