Continuing Disability Review (CDR)
A regular check by Social Security to see if a person on SSDI or SSI is still disabled and qualifies for benefits.
A Continuing Disability Review (CDR) is the Social Security Administration's periodic check to see whether a person who gets SSDI or SSI still meets the medical and (for SSI) financial rules to receive benefits. SSA schedules CDRs every 3, 5, or 7 years depending on the chance of medical improvement: conditions expected to improve get reviews every 3 years, conditions where improvement is possible every 5 to 7 years, and conditions not expected to improve every 7 years. SSA mails one of two forms: the short-form SSA-455 (most common) or the long-form SSA-454-BK (more detailed when improvement is more likely). To pass a CDR, you generally need to show that your condition has not medically improved enough for you to do substantial work. Continued treatment, current medical records, and prompt return of forms are key. If SSA decides you no longer qualify, you can appeal — and request continued benefits during the appeal.
In real life
- An SSDI recipient gets the SSA-455 short form three years after her award and returns it with current treatment notes.
- An SSI child turning 18 goes through an age-18 CDR using adult disability rules.
- A worker whose CDR finds medical improvement appeals and elects to keep benefits during the appeal.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Continuing Disability Review (CDR)
How often will SSA do a CDR?+
Every 3, 5, or 7 years depending on whether medical improvement is expected, possible, or not expected.
What happens if I lose at CDR?+
You can appeal. To keep getting benefits during the appeal, request continued benefits within 10 days of the notice.
What should I do to prepare?+
Keep up regular medical care, save records, and send the form back on time.
What is the age-18 redetermination?+
For children on SSI, SSA reviews using adult disability rules when the child turns 18.
Source: ssa.gov