CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEWS

It seems as if everything is experiencing a budget deficit.  Social Security is certainly no exception.  In an effort to save money, Congress has appropriated more funds to conduct "continuing eligibility reviews" of Social Security disability recipients. 


The idea is that many individuals qualify for disability checks--and later improve.  If they experience "significant medical improvement," they may become able to work and won't qualify for disability checks any longer.  In order to determine who still qualifies and who doesn't, Social Security performs continuing disability reviews (CDRs).


Almost every disability beneficiary will experience a continuing eligibility review.  At the time you were first awarded Social Security disability benefits, a computer somewhere scheduled you for a future review.  You may know about and you may not.  Reviews are conducted at least every 3 years in most cases. 


If you receive Social Security disability checks and receive a written notice that your case is being reviewed, don't panic.  Most reviews do not result in loss of benefits.  But do respond by returning the forms that Social Security requested.  The review will not go away because you ignore it.  In fact, failure to cooperate with the review process can result in the termination of your check, at least temporarily.


If you need help completing the forms, ask someone you trust to assist you.  What Social Security wants to know is - has your medical condition changed?  Is it worse, better, or the same?  They may check with your doctor to verify the information you give.


If you are one of the relatively few individuals who receive a notice that your benefits are being terminated or suspended - file a written request for appeal within 10 days.  In your letter, ask that your benefits be continued pending the outcome of your appeal.  If you make this request in writing within 10 days, your benefits will continue during the appeal process, which can take months to complete.  Remember these important points:


  1. You only have 10 days to request that your benefits continue during appeal.  (You may appeal the decision up to 60 days after you receive the notice.  The catch is, after 10 days you lose the right to keep your benefits during the appeal).
  2. You must request to have your benefits continue - it's not automatic.
  3. Your appeal request must be in writing and sent or taken to a Social Security office. (No matter what you may hear, a telephone call will NOT protect your appeal rights. You must write the letter).
If for any reason you are not able to deal with Social Security during a continuing eligibility review, ask a family member, your lawyer, or a friend to help you.  And remember that most people do not lose their benefits because of a review.

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