Step 1: Understand SSA’s Continuing Disability Review (CDR)

The SSA periodically checks your health to determine if you remain disabled:

• Medical improvement is assessed through updated medical records or exams.
• A CDR can be triggered by medical evidence or randomly assigned.
• They look if you can now perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Step 2: Impact of Health Improvement on Benefits

When your condition improves, SSA may:

• Reduce or terminate your SSDI benefits if you are deemed able to work.
• Consider your ability to engage in full or part-time work.
• Allow a grace period where benefits continue during reevaluation.

Step 3: Protecting Your Rights During Review

You should know:

• You have the right to fair hearings if your benefits are stopped.
• Gathering thorough medical evidence is crucial to support ongoing disability.
• Consider requesting appeals or reconsiderations if disagreeing with SSA’s conclusion.

Step 4: Reporting Changes in Virginia

It’s important to:

• Report any improvement in your condition as required to avoid penalties.
• Notify SSA promptly if you start work or earn above the SGA limits.
• Understand how local Virginia resources can assist in assessing your status.

Common Misunderstandings

Keep these points in mind:

• Improvement doesn’t always mean benefits stop immediately.
• Temporary symptoms relief may not impact benefits if disability resumes.
• Consult professionals before stopping reports or treatment.