After getting approved for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in Indiana, people are generally relieved. The entire process can be harrowing and worrisome. Even if a person is obviously disabled and warrants benefits, adhering to the requirements laid out by the Social Security Administration (SSA) is often stressful. It is even worse if a person is unsure if he or she meets the requirements to get benefits. That approval, however, is not indefinite. The SSA will periodically check to see if the person is still disabled. This is part of continuing eligibility. Although the SSA conducting a review does not mean the benefits will end, it is still important to understand the process.
Points to remember with retaining SSD benefits
When the case is reviewed, if the person is still disabled, the benefits will continue. Still, changes can happen that could result in the benefits being stopped. If a person’s health improves enough where they are no longer considered disabled and are deemed capable of getting back to work, then the benefits will likely stop. Cases must be periodically reviewed. With a review – known as a continuing disability review (CDR) – the person’s condition will be assessed based on whether improvement is expected or not.
There are three categories of medical improvement used by the SSA. They are expected improvement, possible improvement and improvement is not expected. If a person’s medical condition is expected to improve, the reviews will be held within six to 18 months after the benefits start. If improvement is possible, it will be around every three years. Finally, if it is not expected to improve, the review will be held every seven years.
If a person is working and their work level is labeled as “substantial,” then the benefits will stop. That is based on earnings and changes annually. For 2021, it is substantial if a person earns average of $1,310 each month and is not blind. For blind people, it is $2,190 per month. Those conducting the review could decide that the person is no longer disabled and terminate the benefits.
Any aspect of getting and retaining SSD benefits may require professional help
Much like the application for Social Security Disability benefits, there are rules that must be followed even after a person has been approved. That includes taking part in reviews so continuing eligibility can be assessed. In many instances, the person will not have a problem retaining the benefits as their condition has not significantly improved or they have not engaged in substantial work. In others, the decision is made to stop benefits. Throughout the entire process, having assistance is essential to try and reach a positive result and continue getting benefits.