Individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are typically required to undergo periodic reviews to determine if they still qualify for benefits. One of the primary reasons for periodic reviews is to assess whether there has been any significant improvement in the recipient’s medical condition. That’s because this program is designed to help individuals with severe disabilities that prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity.
Also, some disabilities are temporary, and individuals may recover over time. Periodic reviews help identify cases where individuals have recovered and can return to work. Some other changes might be considered, such as getting married, start receiving other sources of income, or experience other changes that can affect their eligibility or benefit amount. Having this said, recertification processes are intended to avoid overpayments to people that does not need SSDI benefits.
Do I have to recertify my SSDI benefits if I live in California?
Well, the answer to that is actually yes, you have to do it if your residence is in California and if it’s there where you get paid. The frequency of the Continuing Disability Review (CDR) can vary depending on the severity of the disability and the likelihood of improvement. Some individuals may undergo reviews every few years, while others may have reviews less frequently.
But, remember: as a SSDI recipient, you better cooperate with these reviews by providing updated medical information and any other requested documentation to maintain your eligibility for benefits. Failure to do so could result in the Social Security Administration (SSA) to interrupt of SSDI benefits, and that’s something you don’t want to happen if you need the money.
What should I do during a SSDI benefits’ Continuing Disability Review?
During a Continuing Disability Review (CDR), the Social Security Administration (SSA) will carefully examine your medical records. In some cases, they may request further medical examinations or tests to gain a comprehensive understanding of your current medical condition.
If, after this evaluation, the SSA determines that your health has sufficiently improved to the point where you can resume gainful employment, your SSDI benefits will be discontinued. It’s essential to keep your medical records up to date and cooperate with any requests for additional information during a CDR to ensure a fair assessment of your disability status.
If you are not sure when the next date for recertification of your SSDI benefits is, you can contact the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), at the official website for SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs in the Golden State.
For more information about SSDI and SSI, or to apply online, yo can go to the SSA’s website. You can also locate your nearest Social Security office and request for help there.