When someone successfully applies for Social Security Disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSDI), he or she may think that this is the end of the process. After all, they are now receiving benefits, which was the point of the original application; however, there is another part to this process called continuing benefits reviews. It is important for everyone to know what this means.
The Notice of Continuing Benefits Reviews
If you receive information indicating that your claim is being reviewed, it is critical to respond as quickly as possible. There are a few reasons why your Social Security Income SSDI claim might come under review. Some of the most common reasons include:
Work Activity: Some reviews are triggered by someone’s work activity. For example, earning more than $910 per month will be considered a trial work period. Someone receiving Social Security Income SSDI is allowed 9 such periods in a 5-year time frame.
Medical Review: Some people receiving benefits might come under something called a medical review. This is done to evaluate whether or not a person has achieved medical improvement in their condition which would allow someone to return to gainful employment. Those who are expected to improve will be assigned a review day. The sooner that improvement is expected, the faster that day will arrive.
Typically, anyone with a condition that is expected to improve will not have their claim reviewed until about three years after the first receipt of benefits. Those whose conditions are not expected to improve likely will not have their claims reviewed before five years.
A Possible Termination of Benefits
While some people might be thrown off at the news that their claim is being reviewed, failure to respond could lead to the benefits being terminated. Therefore, it is critical to respond as quickly and accurately as possible.
Typically, an individual will receive a questionnaire that will be used to gauge possible medical improvement. Some of the questions on this form will have to do with employment activity, work training, and any recent medical care. In general, if someone is going to the doctor regularly and has not been working, a full review may be postponed. On the other hand, if someone is looking for work and hasn’t been to the doctor recently, a full review might be triggered.
Keep in mind that if a full review takes place, Social Security cannot terminate someone’s benefits unless it finds that there is enough evidence that the individual can return to work. During this time period, it is important for individuals receiving benefits to provide the Social Security Administration with current information from all medical parties including doctors, therapists, and any other licensed professional.
Trust the Team at Marva Match Disability Law in Salt Lake City, Utah
The continuing benefits review process can be stressful and everyone should rely on a trained attorney who has experience in Social Security law during this process. At Marva Match Disability Law, our attorneys and staff are dedicated to providing everyone with the representation they deserve. We strive to get to know all of our clients individually, allowing us to best advocate for your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact us today!
