Claiming Rules
Understanding the Continuing Disability Review Process in Social Security
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 23, 2026
The short answer
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR) are periodic evaluations to determine if a beneficiary under a disability still meets the Social Security Administration's criteria for being classified as disabled. A CDR may result in a continuation or cessation of benefits depending on the findings. Reviews may be prompted by medical improvement, changes in income or work status, or scheduled evaluations. Regulations detail specific conditions under which CDRs are triggered, as outlined in 20 CFR 416.990 and 20 CFR 404.1590.
Purpose and Scope of Continuing Disability Reviews
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) are mandated by law to ensure that individuals receiving disability benefits still qualify under the Social Security Administration's criteria. The reviews assess whether there has been medical improvement related to the ability to work. If the impairment is no longer disabling, benefits may be stopped. For disabled adults, the review includes comparing the current medical condition with the last favorable medical decision, as detailed in 20 CFR 416.994.
20 CFR 416.994 View source ›Triggers for a Continuing Disability Review
A CDR can be initiated for multiple reasons, such as scheduled medical improvement diaries, substantial earnings, or reports from various agencies indicating possible improvement or non-compliance. Reviews are also scheduled due to vocational rehabilitation agency reports or the individual's return to work. Details on when CDRs are initiated can be found in 20 CFR 416.990 and 20 CFR 404.1590.
20 CFR 416.990 View source ›Frequency of Reviews
The frequency of continuing disability reviews is determined by the likelihood of medical improvement. If improvement is expected, reviews may occur every 6 to 18 months. For conditions where improvement is uncertain, reviews occur at least every 3 years. Permanent disabilities have reviews no less frequently than every 5 to 7 years, as outlined in 20 CFR 416.990(d).
20 CFR 416.990 View source ›Special Rules for CDRs in the Ticket to Work Program
Individuals participating in the Ticket to Work program are generally exempt from CDRs during the period they are using a ticket. However, reviews are conducted using specific criteria to determine if substantial gainful activity can be performed, under 20 CFR 411.160.
20 CFR 411.160 View source ›Appeals and Reconsiderations
If a CDR results in a determination that a disability has ended, the beneficiary has the right to appeal the decision. Benefits may continue during the appeal process if requested. The procedures for appeals are detailed in 20 CFR 411.175.
20 CFR 411.175 View source ›Frequently asked
What triggers a continuing disability review?
A CDR can be triggered by medical improvement predictions, reported work activity, substantial earnings, or recommendations from vocational rehabilitation services.
How often are disability reviews conducted?
If improvement is expected, reviews occur every 6 to 18 months. For unlikely improvement, it's every 3 years, and for permanent disabilities, every 5 to 7 years.
What happens if my disability review finds I am no longer disabled?
If found no longer disabled, your benefits may stop, but you have the right to appeal the decision with the possibility of continuing benefits during the appeal.
Does participation in the Ticket to Work program affect my CDR?
Generally, if you're participating in the Ticket to Work program, CDRs will not be initiated during your use of the ticket, unless specific criteria apply.
Can I appeal a decision from a continuing disability review?
Yes, you can appeal. During the appeal process, you can request that your benefits continue.