What Is Disability Redetermination?

Disability redetermination is the SSA’s way of making sure you still meet the medical and/or financial criteria for benefits. There are two types of reviews:

• Medical Continuing Disability Review (CDR): Determines if you’re still medically disabled.
• SSI Redetermination: Reviews your income, resources, and living arrangements if you're receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

When Does a Redetermination Happen in Ohio?

The SSA typically conducts reviews based on how likely your condition is to improve:

• Every 3 years if improvement is expected
• Every 5 to 7 years if improvement is unlikely

Some reviews may occur sooner if there’s a change in your situation or reports of work activity.

What Triggers a Redetermination?

Your case may be reviewed if:

• SSA flagged you for periodic review
• You’ve returned to work
• There’s new information suggesting medical improvement
• There are concerns about financial eligibility (SSI)

What Happens During a Medical CDR?

If you're receiving SSDI or SSI based on disability, here's what the process looks like:

• SSA sends you a notice about the review
• You’ll receive either a short-form (SSA-455) or long-form (SSA-454) questionnaire
• You’ll be asked about your medical condition, treatments, daily activities, and any work activity
• SSA may request updated medical records
• You could be scheduled for a Consultative Exam (CE) with an independent doctor

SSA then decides whether your disability still meets their criteria.

What Happens During an SSI Redetermination?

If you're on SSI, the SSA will review your:

• Income (wages, pensions, child support, etc.)
• Resources (bank accounts, vehicles, property)
• Household situation (who you live with, how expenses are shared)

You may be asked to attend an interview or submit supporting documents.

What If You’re Found No Longer Eligible?

If the SSA determines you're no longer eligible:

• You’ll receive a written notice explaining the decision
• You have 60 days to file an appeal
• You can request to continue receiving benefits during your appeal, but this must be done within 10 days of receiving the notice

Act quickly and provide all necessary documentation to support your continued eligibility.

Stay Prepared for Redetermination

To ensure your benefits continue:

• Keep up with medical appointments and follow treatment plans
• Maintain organized records of your condition and limitations
• Report any changes in income or living situation to the SSA
• Respond to all SSA notices promptly