Will SSDI Benefits Last for Life?
Are you wondering whether the SSDI benefits that you fought so hard for are going to be paid out for the rest of your life?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better. Today we’re going to talk about how long you may be able to receive SSDI benefits for once you are approved.
Are SSDI Benefits for Life?
SSDI benefits are not necessarily for life. The Social Security Administration does conduct periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to assess whether the recipient’s medical condition has improved to make sure they are still disabled and unable to work.
What Happens During a CDR?
During a Continuing Disability Review, the Social Security Administration uses a medical improvement standard to determine whether or not the recipient’s condition has improved to the point where they are no longer considered disabled under the Social Security Administration’s rules.
How Often Are Disability Reviews Conducted?
The frequency of CDRs varies depending on the severity of the recipient’s medical condition and the likelihood that Social Security believes the condition will improve. Continuing Disability Reviews can occur as often as 6 to 8 months for conditions that are expected to improve and as infrequently as every seven years for conditions that are not expected to improve.
Do Reviews Change Over Time?
As recipients age, the frequency of Continuing Disability Reviews may also decrease, as the Social Security Administration does recognize that certain disabilities are less likely to improve over time. Some recipients with certain permanent and severe disabilities may have their benefits continue without the need for regular CDRs.
When Else Can SSDI Benefits End?
SSDI benefits also often end upon the recipient’s death or if they reach full retirement age, at which point they may transition to Social Security retirement benefits.
What Should You Do if You Have Questions?
If you have questions about the duration of your SSDI benefits or your specific situation, it’s often recommended that you reach out directly to the Social Security Administration or a legal professional who specializes in Social Security Disability matters.
In sum, while SSDI benefits are not automatically for life, their duration depends on factors such as medical reviews, the severity of the disability, and the age of the claimant. Regular reviews are typically conducted to determine ongoing eligibility.
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