Winning your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is a major victory, but it does not always mean your case is closed forever. The Social Security Administration (SSA) periodically reviews claims to ensure recipients still meet the medical requirements for disability. The role of continuing disability review in Michigan SSDI cases can be intimidating, but you do not have to face the bureaucracy alone.
At Thurswell Law, we understand that your benefits are a lifeline. Since 1968, our SSDI attorneys have helped residents navigate the complexities of the federal disability system. We believe that experience gets results, and we use our decades of knowledge to help you maintain the benefits you earned. If you have received notice of an upcoming medical review, our legal team can help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a case to protect your monthly payments.
Why Does the SSA Conduct Medical Reviews?
The SSA is required by law to review most disability cases to determine if there has been any medical improvement. Depending on the nature of your condition, these reviews may happen every three years or every seven years. The primary goal of a Michigan SSDI disability review is to see if your health has improved to the point where you are now capable of engaging in substantial gainful activity.
During this process, the SSA will look at your current medical records and may ask you to attend a consultative examination. Because the stakes are so high, it is vital to keep up with your doctor appointments and follow all prescribed treatments. If the SSA determines your condition has improved, they may attempt to terminate your benefits. Our attorneys can assist you in gathering the necessary evidence to prove that your disability remains a barrier to employment.
How Does the Review Process Work?
The review begins when the SSA sends you a notification and a questionnaire to assess your current health status. When you are navigating a Michigan SSDI benefit review for a continuing disability, the process typically follows one of two paths: a short-form mailer for those expected to remain disabled, or a long-form medical review for those where improvement is possible. Once you submit your forms, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Michigan gathers your recent medical records from your doctors and hospitals to see if you still meet the criteria for disability.
If the evidence is insufficient, they may schedule a consultative exam with a state-contracted doctor. Throughout this timeline, the legal team at Thurswell Law can provide the compassionate support you need, ensuring every form is completed accurately and every piece of medical evidence is presented clearly.
If the SSA decides to stop your payments following a review, you have a limited window to appeal. You have the right to request a hearing before a Disability Hearing Officer and, eventually, an Administrative Law Judge. During these appeals, the burden is on the SSA to show that there has been medical improvement related to your ability to work.
We look for evidence of legal negligence in how the SSA handled your file or interpreted your medical data. We are dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard and that the federal government respects your rights as a disabled individual. Our attorneys are prepared to stand by you through every level of the appeals process to ensure you are treated fairly.
Contact Our Attorneys For a Free Consultation Regarding a Continuing Disability Review in Your Michigan SSDI Case
If you are worried about losing your disability income or have questions about the role of continuing disability review in Michigan SSDI claims, reach out to Thurswell Law today. We can provide the experienced and compassionate representation you deserve.
Our lawyers have the skills and resources to guide you through every step of the review and appeals process. Whether you are just starting the review or have already received a notice of termination, we are here to help. Contact us today for your free consultation.