Since Social Security’s creation in 1937, hundreds of millions of retired and disabled Americans have benefitted from the program.
To this day, it continues to provide over 60 million Americans with monthly benefits to supplement their income. However, because Social Security is so vast, the logistics of the program can get a little confusing at times.
Do I have to reapply to Social Security every year?
Thankfully, the answer here is “no”. Once you are approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for Social Security disability insurance, there is no need to reapply every year. Instead, applicants are given a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) once every 12 months, 3 years, or 7 years, depending on their prognosis and the severity of their disability. However, there are some aspects of these check-ups that deserve mentioning.
CDRs are performed by the SSA to insure that recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are still disabled and entitled to their benefits. Typical CDRs are more brief and simple to undergo than the initial Social Security application. However, if there is evidence that shows a recipient is improving (increased income, improving medical conditions, etc.) then a more full-scale review will be performed.
Many people mistakenly view these reviews as scary or intimidating. However, with proper preparation, even large-scale reviews are quite simple. To ensure that your CDRs go smoothly, follow the tips below:
- Keep multiple copies of all documents pertaining to your disability and your case. While the SSA normally keeps them with your file, it never hurts to update your information and have this paperwork on hand.
- Maintain a working relationship with both your doctors and the SSA. This ensures you are prepared to retrieve any additional paperwork necessary and receive notifications on your case.
- Always notify the SSA of a change in address. This makes sure follow-up paperwork and CDRs never go unread.
- Do not ignore your CDR! While it may be tempting to set aside, failing to fill out and return your review could lead to a retraction of benefits.
Overall, CDRs are easy to complete when prepared for. As long as your disability persists, there is no reason for the SSA to remove your benefits and no reason to stress over a review. If you ever encounter trouble when filling out a CDR or feel your benefits are being revoked unjustly, you can always file an appeal.
Speaking with a Social Security Attorney
Social Security can be a daunting program to wrap your head around. From the initial application to maintaining your benefits to filling out CDRs, the process can get complicated and difficult to understand.
If you have any questions about your Social Security, your benefits, or the eligibility of your disability, consider speaking with a Social Security attorney today. Their expertise is not only valuable in filing paperwork and presenting cases, but they can simplify the process and make sure you are in control of your disability benefits.
