SSDI Diary Date: When the SSA Will Review Your Case
TL;DR: A diary date is the SSA's scheduled date for your next Continuing Disability Review (CDR). It's set when you're approved and is based on your expected likelihood of medical improvement: 6-18 months (improvement expected), 3 years (improvement possible), or 5-7 years (improvement not expected). You'll receive a notice when a CDR is scheduled. Keep treating with your doctors and maintain records to prepare.
Your diary date determines when the SSA next checks whether you're still disabled. It's assigned at approval based on your medical improvement prognosis and stays in your file until triggered.
Diary Date Categories
| Category | Review Interval | When Assigned |
|---|---|---|
| Medical improvement expected | 6-18 months | Conditions expected to improve with treatment |
| Medical improvement possible | Every 3 years | Most conditions |
| Medical improvement not expected | Every 5-7 years | Permanent, severe, or progressive conditions |
Preparing for Your CDR
When your diary date triggers a CDR, the SSA sends you a form (SSA-454 or SSA-455) asking about your current condition. The best preparation is maintaining consistent medical treatment and keeping your records current.
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