What can I do if the SSA finds that I am no longer disabled and wants to cut off my Social Security benefits?
All disability cases are subjected to regular reviews by the Social Security Administration. These review periods vary depending on the particular condition. If the member’s condition is expected to improve, he or she will be up for review in 6 to 30 months. If a possibility that the condition will improve remains, the review will be undertaken after 3 years. If the condition is deemed permanent, a review will be done in 5 to 7 years.

When the time for the review comes, the case will be forwarded to the Disability Determination Services department in order to determine the member’s continued eligibility for Social Security benefits. The member will go through an interview process and will be asked about his or her condition since being granted Social Security benefits. A medical examiner will then determine the present state of the member’s medical condition. If it is determined that the member is able to return to work, the Social Security benefits will stop.

If you disagree with the findings of this review process, an appeal may be filed with the office of the Social Security Administration. A hearing will then be done, in which your case will be subject to a reconsideration. If you are found to be ineligible for further Social Security benefits, you have the option of filing for an appeal with an administrative law judge, take your case to an Appeals Council, or file a lawsuit in the federal district court.

Can I receive any benefits for caring for my spouse who is disabled?
While the SSA does not pay caregivers of disabled spouses directly, they may be able to receive benefits of their own. These benefits are given monthly and can be equal to 50 percent of the disabled spouse’s benefits. It is important to note however that the SSA imposes a limit to the amount of social security benefits that a family can receive.

If the VA finds that I am disabled, should I expect to SSA to find me disabled as well?
Unfortunately, the SSA system does not gauge varying levels of disability, unlike the VA system. Therefore, while you may be eligible for benefits under the VA system even if you are only partially disabled, there is still a chance that you may be turned down by the SSA.