Fixed Income

Disability Claims Get Reviewed

That law says that every Social Security disability claim must be reviewed from time to time.
Disability Claims Get Reviewed
If your condition improves, you won't need disability benefits anymore. Studio Romantic/Shutterstock
Tom Margenau
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For a couple of different reasons, a claim for Social Security disability benefits may be reviewed. One is what the Social Security Administration calls a “quality assurance review.” The other is what the agency calls a “continuing disability review.” I’ve gotten a couple of emails about this issue recently. Answering them will explain the difference between the two review processes.

Q: I applied for Social Security disability benefits about 3 months ago. I haven’t heard yet if my claim has been approved. But I just got a letter telling me that they are reviewing my case and want my cooperation. What is this all about?

Tom Margenau
Tom Margenau
Author
Tom Margenau worked for 32 years in a variety of positions for the Social Security Administration before retiring in 2005. He has served as the director of SSA’s public information office, the chief editor of more than 100 SSA publications, a deputy press officer and spokesman, and a speechwriter for the commissioner of Social Security. For 12 years, he also wrote Social Security columns for local newspapers, and recently published the book “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” If you have a Social Security question, contact him at [email protected]