Why Are Disability Reviews Conducted?

The SSA is required to review disability cases to ensure that only those who continue to meet their strict disability standards receive benefits. Reviews assess whether:

• Your medical condition has improved
• You are able to return to work at a level considered substantial gainful activity (SGA)

How Often Are Disability Reviews Conducted?

The frequency of your review depends on the likelihood of your condition improving:

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Reviewed every 6 to 18 months
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Reviewed approximately every 3 years
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Reviewed approximately every 5 to 7 years

When you are approved for benefits, the SSA will assign your review category.

What Happens During a Disability Review?

Initial Notification

You will receive a notice from the SSA stating that your case is under review. This letter will include forms for you to complete about your current medical treatment, daily activities, and work status.

Completing Disability Update Reports

Depending on your review type, you may be asked to fill out:

• A short Disability Update Report (Form SSA-455) if it is a routine review
• A long Continuing Disability Review Report (Form SSA-454) if more detailed information is needed

These forms will ask about:

• Changes in your medical condition
• New treatments or hospitalizations
• Any work activity since your last review

Medical Evidence Review

The SSA will:

• Request updated medical records from your doctors, hospitals, and clinics
• Review your treatment history and any improvements in your condition
• Send you for a Consultative Examination (CE) with an SSA-appointed doctor if your current records are insufficient

Work Activity Review

The SSA will check if you are working and whether your earnings exceed SGA levels. In 2025:

• Earning more than $1,550 per month ($2,590 if you are blind) generally indicates you may no longer qualify for benefits.

Possible Outcomes of a Disability Review

• Benefits Continue: If your medical condition still meets SSA disability standards, your benefits will continue without changes.
• Benefits End: If the SSA determines your condition has improved enough for you to work, your benefits may be terminated. You will receive a notice explaining this decision and your appeal rights.

Appealing a Disability Termination Decision

If your benefits are stopped after a CDR and you disagree, you can:

• File an appeal within 60 days of receiving the termination notice
• Request continuation of benefits while your appeal is pending, but this must be done within 10 days of receiving the notice