Ask Larry

Is There Something I Should Do If A Review Of My Case Is Past Due?

I've been on SSDI since my 50s and I'm now in my early 60s (not quite 62) My initial approval letter said my case would be reviewed in 5 to 7 years. It's now one month past 7 years and I've never been contacted for a review. Is there something I should do? Do they ever not do a review? Or could it be they made a mistake and I'll find out in a few years when they try to take back things they've already paid me?

Hi. You don't need to do anything unless and until Social Security initiates a review. As long as Social Security has your correct mailing address, they should notify you if and when they initiate a medical review of your case.

The frequency of medical reviews depends on a disabled person's impairment(s) and whether or not they could reasonably be expected to improve. Age is also a factor, as are internal Social Security budget considerations. It's quite possible, if not likely, that since you're now in you 60s that Social Security won't ever review your case. If so, your Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits will simply automatically convert to regular Social Security retirement benefits when you reach your full retirement age (FRA).

If Social Security does decide to review your case before you reach FRA, though, even if they determine that your benefits should be terminated they'd be barred from terminating them retroactively.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 15 2021 - 10:22am
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