What is a disability review interview?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 04/22/2025


If you’re receiving Social Security Disability benefits, you may be asked to participate in a disability review interview. This is part of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Continuing Disability Review (CDR) process — a routine check to determine if you still meet the medical and financial criteria for disability benefits.

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Why Does the SSA Conduct Disability Reviews?

The SSA is legally required to periodically review cases to ensure that only individuals who remain disabled continue to receive benefits. These reviews help determine:


  • Whether your medical condition has improved
  • If you’re capable of returning to work
  • If you still meet non-medical eligibility criteria, such as income limits for SSI


Depending on your age, condition, and whether improvement is expected, reviews may happen every 3 to 7 years — or more frequently if your condition is likely to improve.


What Happens During a Disability Review Interview?

A disability review interview typically involves a phone call or in-person meeting with a representative from the SSA. During the interview, you may be asked questions about:


  • Your current medical condition
  • Any recent treatments, medications, or hospital visits
  • Doctors or specialists you’ve seen since your last review
  • Your work activity or attempts to return to work
  • Your daily activities and how your condition affects them


You’ll also be asked to provide updated medical documentation and possibly complete forms like the Disability Update Report (SSA-455) or Continuing Disability Review Report (SSA-454).


What Should You Do to Prepare?

To make the review process smoother and protect your benefits, it’s important to:


  • Continue regular medical treatment and follow all prescribed care
  • Keep records of all doctor visits, medications, and therapies
  • Be honest and thorough when answering questions during your interview
  • Submit requested forms and documents on time


Failure to respond to the review or provide complete information could result in a suspension or termination of your benefits.

How Hogan Smith Can Help You

At Hogan Smith, we help clients navigate every stage of the disability process — including CDRs and review interviews. We can assist you with:


  • Understanding what to expect during the interview
  • Preparing your paperwork and medical records
  • Responding to SSA requests and protecting your benefits
  • Representing you if your benefits are challenged or terminated

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you’ve been scheduled for a disability review interview or received a notice from the SSA, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll help you stay compliant and safeguard your benefits.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

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