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The SSA-454-BK form, officially known as the Continuing Disability Review Report, serves a vital role in the evaluation of individuals currently receiving Social Security Disability benefits. The purpose of this form is to assess whether recipients continue to meet the criteria for disability under the Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines. It requires detailed information about the individual's current medical condition, treatments received, and any vocational activities undertaken since their last disability decision. Notably, applicants must identify a person, such as a family member or friend, who is knowledgeable about their medical issues and can assist in the review process. Comprehensive responses about medical providers seen in the past year, medications taken, and educational or vocational rehabilitation efforts are essential for a thorough evaluation. The SSA emphasizes that individuals do not need to seek medical records independently, as the agency will acquire them directly from healthcare providers given the proper consent. Furthermore, the SSA-454-BK form comes with specific instructions to ensure that applicants provide complete and accurate information while safeguarding their privacy. Some may find the process overwhelming; however, support from friends or family can alleviate some of the burdens. This review process ultimately aims to ensure that the resources are allocated to those in genuine need while maintaining the integrity of the disability program.

Ssa 454 Bk Example

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

 

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Page 1 of 12

Social Security Administration

OMB No. 0960-0072

CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEW REPORT SSA-454-BK

PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION BEFORE COMPLETING THIS REPORT

The office that reviews your medical condition(s) will use the information you provide in this report to decide whether you are still disabled. Please complete as much of the report as you can.

IF YOU NEED HELP

You can get help from other people, such as a friend or family member. Please do not ask your health care provider to complete this report. If you cannot complete the report, you may contact us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). A Social Security Representative will assist you. Please have the information available from the bulleted items below when you call us. If you have a continuing disability review appointment, please have the information available, or the completed report ready when we contact you. If you cannot speak or understand English, we will provide an interpreter free of charge.

WHAT YOU NEED TO COMPLETE THIS REPORT

Name, address, and phone number of a friend or relative (other than your doctors) we can contact who knows about your medical condition(s), and can help with your case, if needed.

Name, address, and phone number of any health care providers you have seen within the last 12 months. (You may be able to get that information from the telephone book, Internet, online medical chart, medical bills, prescriptions, or prescription medicine containers.)

Any prescription or non-prescription medicines you take or have taken in the last 12 months.

Name of organization who we can contact that would have medical information about your condition(s) in the last 12 months. (Such as social services agencies, welfare agencies, attorneys, prisons, workers’ compensation and insurance companies who have paid you disability benefits.)

Information about any education since your last disability decision. (See top of Page 3 for date of last decision.)

Information about any vocational rehabilitation, employment, or other support services since your last disability decision. (See top of Page 3 for date of last decision.)

ANSWER EVERY QUESTION, unless the report indicates otherwise. If you do not know an answer, or the answer is "none" or "does not apply," please write: "don't know," or "none," or "does not apply."

If you need more space to answer any question, please use Section 9 - Remarks, on the last page to finish your answer. Write the number of the question you are answering.

YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS

YOU DO NOT NEED TO ASK DOCTORS OR HOSPITALS FOR ANY MEDICAL RECORDS. If you have consented to us obtaining medical records from your providers, we will request your records directly from them. The information that you give us on this report tells us where to request your medical and other records.

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Privacy Act Statement

Collection and Use of Personal Information

Sections 205(a), 221(i), 223(d), 1614(a), 1631(e), and 1633(c) of the Social Security Act, as amended, allow us to collect this information. Furnishing us this information is voluntary. However, failing to provide all or part of the information may prevent an accurate and timely decision on any claim filed.

We will use the information to determine eligibility for benefits. We may also share your information for the following purposes, called routine uses:

To applicants, claimants, prospective applicants or claimants, other than the data subject, their authorized representatives or representative payees to the extent necessary to pursue Social Security claims and to representative payees when the information pertains to individuals for whom they serve as representative payees, for the purpose of assisting Social Security Administration (SSA) in administering its representative payment responsibilities under the Act and assisting the representative payees in performing their duties as payees, including receiving and accounting for benefits for individuals for whom they serve as payees; and

To private medical and vocational consultants for use in making preparation for, or evaluating the results of, consultative medical examinations or vocational assessments which they were engaged to perform by SSA or a State agency acting in accord with sections 221 or 1633 of the Act.

In addition, we may share this information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other Federal laws. For example, where authorized, we may use and disclose this information in computer matching programs, in which our records are compared with other records to establish or verify a person's eligibility for Federal benefit programs and for repayment of incorrect or delinquent debts under these programs.

A list of additional routine uses is available in our Privacy Act System of Records Notices (SORN)

60-0089, entitled Claims Folders System, as published in the Federal Register (FR) on April 1, 2003, at 68 FR 15784, and 60-0320, entitled Electronic Disability Claim File, as published in the FR on December 22, 2003, at 68 FR 71210. Additional information and a full listing of all our SORNs are available on our website at www.ssa.gov/privacy.

Paperwork Reduction Act Statement

This information collection meets the requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507, as amended by section 2 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. You do not need to answer these questions unless we display a valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. We estimate that it will take about 60 minutes to read the instructions, gather the facts, and answer the questions. Send only comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: SSA, 6401 Security Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21235-6401.

SEND OR BRING THE COMPLETED REPORT TO YOUR LOCAL SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE, OR THE NEAREST U.S. EMBASSY OR CONSULATE OFFICE. Office addresses are listed under U.S. Government agencies in your telephone directory or you may call 1-800-772-1213

(TTY 1-800-325-0778) for the address.

AFTER COMPLETING THIS REPORT, REMOVE THIS SHEET

AND KEEP IT FOR YOUR RECORDS.

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

 

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Social Security Administration

OMB No. 0960-0072

CONTINUING DISABILITY REVIEW REPORT

For SSA Use Only - Do not write in this box.

Date of your last medical disability decision:

SECTION 1 - INFORMATION ABOUT YOU

When a question refers to "you" or "your" it refers to the person receiving disability benefits. If you are completing this report for someone else, please provide information about them.

1.A. NAME (First, Middle, Last, Suffix)

1.B. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

1.C. In the last 12 months, have you used any other names on your medical or educational records? Examples include maiden name, other married names, other names, or nickname.

YES

NO

If YES, please list names used

1.D. MAILING ADDRESS (Street or PO Box) Include apartment number if applicable.

CITY

STATE/Province ZIP/Postal Code COUNTRY (if not USA)

1.E. Is your residence address the same as your mailing address? YES NO - Complete RESIDENT ADDRESS below

RESIDENT ADDRESS (Include apartment number if applicable.)

CITY

STATE/Province ZIP/Postal Code COUNTRY (if not USA)

1.F. DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER(S) where we can call to speak with you, or leave a message, if needed. (Include area code, or IDD and country code if outside the USA or Canada.)

Primary:

Secondary:

 

 

 

 

(If available)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.G. EMAIL ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.H. Can you speak and understand English?

 

YES

NO

 

If NO, what language do you prefer?

 

 

 

 

If you cannot speak and understand English, we will provide an interpreter free of charge.

1.I. Can you read and understand English?

YES

NO

1.J. Can you write more than your name in English?

YES

NO

SECTION 2 – SOMEONE WE CAN CONTACT

 

 

Please provide the name of someone (other than your doctors) we can contact who knows about your medical condition(s), and can help with your case and can help us reach you if you become unavailable. Examples include a family member, friend, or neighbor.

2.A. NAME (First, Middle Initial, Last)

2.B. Relationship to Person in 1.A.

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

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2.C. MAILING ADDRESS (Street or PO Box) Include apartment number if applicable.

CITY

STATE/Province ZIP/Postal Code COUNTRY (if not USA)

2.D. DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER (as described in 1.F. above)

 

 

 

 

 

2.E. Can this person speak and understand English?

YES

NO

(If NO, what language is preferred?)

 

 

SECTION 3 - MEDICAL INFORMATION

Please provide us with general medical information to assist us with any records requests. We will use this information to see what additional questions or forms we may need to send you.

3.A. Separately list each physical and/or mental health condition that limits your ability to work. If under age 18, list the physical and/or mental health condition(s) that limit the child’s ability to do the same things as other children the same age.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

If you need more space to list additional conditions go to Section 9 – Remarks

3.B. What is your height?

 

 

OR

 

 

feet

 

inches

 

centimeters

 

3.C. What is your weight?

 

 

OR

 

 

pounds

 

kilograms

 

3.D. Within the last 12 months, have you seen or received treatment from a health care provider (doctor, hospital, clinic, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, physical therapists, or other medical professionals)?

NO (Go to 3.F.)

YES (Complete the following section below.)

You may find this information on medical bills or the internet. If you don’t have the full street address, give as much as you can. Example: “On Main St next to the Courthouse.”

1. NAME OF FACILITY OR OFFICE

NAME OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDER THAT TREATED YOU

What medical conditions were treated or evaluated?

PHONE NUMBER

STREET ADDRESS

DATE LAST SEEN

(IF KNOWN)

MM / YYYY

CITY

STATE/Province ZIP/Postal Code COUNTRY (if not USA)

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

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2. NAME OF FACILITY OR OFFICE

NAME OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDER THAT TREATED YOU

 

 

What medical conditions were treated or evaluated?

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

DATE LAST SEEN

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

(IF KNOWN)

 

MM

YYYY

 

STREET ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

3. NAME OF FACILITY OR OFFICE

NAME

OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDER THAT TREATED YOU

What medical conditions were treated or evaluated?

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

DATE LAST SEEN

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

(IF KNOWN)

 

MM

YYYY

 

STREET ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

4. NAME OF FACILITY OR OFFICE

NAME

OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDER THAT TREATED YOU

What medical conditions were treated or evaluated?

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

DATE LAST SEEN

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

(IF KNOWN)

 

MM

YYYY

 

STREET ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

5. NAME OF FACILITY OR OFFICE

NAME

OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDER THAT TREATED YOU

What medical conditions were treated or evaluated?

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

DATE LAST SEEN

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

(IF KNOWN)

 

MM

YYYY

 

STREET ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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If you need to list more facilities or doctors, use Section 9 – Remarks.

3.E. Within the last 12 months, did any of the providers listed in 3.D. order any medical tests for you? (Include tests already performed and those scheduled in the future, and the healthcare provider that scheduled them.)

NO (Go to 3.F.)

YES (Complete the following section below.) – If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

TEST

NAME OF HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Blood test (not HIV)

Breathing test

Cardiac catheterization

EEG (brain wave test)

EKG (heart test)

Hearing test

HIV test

Speech/language test

Treadmill (exercise test)

Vision test

Psychological/IQ test

Biopsy (list body part):

MRI/CT scan (list body part):

X-ray (list body part):

Other – please specify:

3.F. Within the last 12 months, have you taken or are you now taking any prescription or non-prescription

medicines?

NO (Go to 3.G.)

YES (Complete the following section below.) – Look at your medicine containers, if necessary. If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

 

NAME OF MEDICINE

IF PRESCRIBED, GIVE

REASON FOR MEDICINE

 

DOCTOR NAME

(IF KNOWN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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3.G. Do you use an assistive device?

NO (Go to Section 4)

YES (Complete the following section below.) If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

 

DEVICE

FREQUENCY OF USE

NAME OF HEALTH CARE

 

PROVIDER, IF PRESCRIBED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Braces

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Canes

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Crutches

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Eyeglasses

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Hearing aid

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Screen reader

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Walker

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Wheelchair

Always

Sometimes

 

 

Other:

Always

Sometimes

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.H. Is the person receiving disability benefits listed in 1.A. under age 14?

NO (Go to Section 4)

YES (Go to Section 10)

SECTION 4 – WORK INFORMATION

Complete only if you are age 14 years old or older

Please tell us if you have worked since the date of your last medical disability decision. If we have any additional questions about your work, we may contact you.

4.A. Since the date of your last medical disability decision have you worked? (See date on top of Page 3.)

NO (Go to 4.B.)

YES (Complete following section below.)

Are you currently working?

No

Yes

Select all types of work you had since your last medical disability decision:

Wages from employer

Self-employment

4.B. Is the person receiving disability benefits listed in 1.A. under age 18?

NO (Go to Section 5)

YES (Go to Section 10)

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

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SECTION 5 – SUPPORT SERVICES

Complete only if you are age 18 years or older

Please provide the information about your participation in support services. Examples of support services can include:

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) through a school (if a student age 18-21)

An individualized work plan with an employment network under the Ticket to Work Program

A Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

An individualized plan for employment with a vocational rehabilitation agency or any other organization.

5.A. Since the date of your last medical disability decision, have you participated or are you participating in any support services mentioned above or any other vocational rehabilitation, employment services, or other support services to help you return to work? (See date on top of Page 3.)

NO (Go to Section 6)

YES (Complete the following section below.)

FACILITY OR ORGANIZATION NAME

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

COUNSELOR, INSTRUCTOR, OR JOB COACH NAME

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS (Street or PO Box) (Include Suite, Building, etc.)

 

CITY

STATE/Province ZIP/Postal Code COUNTRY (if not USA)

5.B. Are you still participating in the plan or program? (Select answer below)

YES - Date began:

 

/

 

 

Expected completion date:

 

 

/

 

 

MM

YYYY

MM

YYYY

 

NO - Date began:

 

/

 

 

Date stopped:

 

/

 

 

 

 

MM

YYYY

MM

YYYY

 

Reason stopped:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.C. What types of services, tests, or evaluation were provided?

Select all that apply:

Vision test

Psychological/IQ test

Work classes

Hearing test

Work Evaluation

Other - Please explain:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 6 - OTHER MEDICAL INFORMATION

Complete only if you are age 18 years or older

Please provide the contact information for anyone else or any other organization that may have medical information about your physical or mental health condition(s) that you did not list in Questions 3.D. or 5.A.

6.Within the last 12 months, does anyone else (other than your medical providers) have your medical information or are you scheduled to see anyone else? Examples include places like social services agencies, welfare agencies, attorneys, prisons, workers’ compensation, insurance companies who have paid you disability benefits.

NO (Go to Section 7)

YES (Complete the following section below.)

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UF

 

 

 

 

 

Page 9 of 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME OR ORGANIZATION

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

 

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

NAME OF CONTACT PERSON

 

 

CLAIM NUMBER

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of First Contact

Date of Last Contact

 

Date of Next Contact

(in last 12 months)

(in last 12 months)

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reason(s) for Contacts

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you need to list other people or organizations use Section 9 - Remarks and give the same detailed information as above for each one you list.

SECTION 7 – EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND LITERACY

Complete only if you are age 18 years or older

Please provide any information about your education, training, and literacy since your last disability decision.

7.A. Have you received any education since your last disability decision? (See date at the top of Page 3.)

NO, (Go to 7.B.)

YES (Complete the following section below.)

 

NAME OF SCHOOL

 

 

 

DATE(S) OF ATTENDANCE

 

 

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MM

YYYY

MM

YYYY

 

MAILING ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TYPE OF PROGRAM/DEGREE

 

Date Completed (or scheduled to be completed)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MM

 

 

YYYY

 

7.B. Have you received any type of training (specialized job, trade, or vocational training) since your last

disability decision? (See date at top of Page 3.)

NO (Go to 7.C.)

YES (Complete the following section below.)

NAME OF TRAINING FACILITY

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

STATE/Province

ZIP/Postal Code

COUNTRY (if not USA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TYPE OF PROGRAM

 

Date Completed (or scheduled to be completed)

 

 

 

 

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

MM

YYYY

Form SSA-454-BK (02-2023) UFPage 10 of 12

7.C. What written language do you use every day in most situations (at home, work, school, in community,

etc.)?

7.D. READING - In the language you identified in 7.C., can you read a simple message, such as a

shopping list or short and simple notes?

YES

NO

7.E. WRITING - In the language you identified in 7.C., can you write a simple message, such as a shopping

list or short simple notes?

YES

NO

If you need to list other education information or training facilities use Section 9 - Remarks and

provide the same detailed information as above.

SECTION 8 - DAILY ACTIVITIES

Complete only if you are age 18 years or older.

Please tell us how your conditions affect your everyday life. This will help us further understand your medical condition(s).

8.A. Describe what you do in a typical day. Please focus on how your medical condition(s) affect your daily activities. If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

8.B. Do you have hobbies or interests? If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

YES

NO

If YES, please describe what they are and how much time you spend doing them.

8.C. Do your medical conditions cause you to have difficulties doing any of the following?

YES

NO

 

If YES, please select any tasks that you need help with or have difficulty doing.

Dressing

 

Taking medicine

Doing chores (inside/outside of house)

 

 

 

 

Bathing

 

Preparing meals

Driving or using public transportation

 

 

 

 

Caring for hair

 

Feeding self

Understanding or following directions

 

 

 

 

Walking

 

Shopping

Managing money

 

 

 

 

Standing

 

Lifting objects

Getting along with people

 

 

 

 

Sitting

 

Using arms

Using hands or fingers

 

 

 

 

Concentrating

 

Remembering

Seeing, hearing, or speaking

 

 

 

 

Please explain anything you marked you need help with or have difficulty doing:

If you need more space, use Section 9 – Remarks.

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The SSA-454-BK is used for continuing disability review reports to assess whether an individual remains eligible for disability benefits.
Required Information Applicants must provide personal details, medical conditions, treatment history, and contacts for assistance.
Support for Completion Individuals can ask family or friends for help filling out the form, but should not ask health care providers to complete it.
Interpreter Services Free interpreter services are available for those who cannot speak or understand English.
Personal Information Collection Information collected is protected under the Privacy Act and is used to determine eligibility for benefits.
Paperwork Reduction Act This form complies with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, estimating about 60 minutes to complete.
Submission Instructions Completed forms should be sent to the local Social Security office or nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

Guidelines on Utilizing Ssa 454 Bk

Completing the SSA-454-BK form is an important step in your continuing disability review process. This form collects essential information about your current medical status, treatment history, and any other relevant conditions that may affect your ability to work. Preparing it carefully ensures the Social Security Administration has the right details to evaluate your continued eligibility for disability benefits.

  1. Start by downloading the SSA-454-BK form from the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or acquiring a physical copy.
  2. For Section 1, fill in your full name, social security number, and check if you have used any other names in the past year. If yes, list those names.
  3. Provide your mailing address and indicate if your residence address is the same. If not, include the residence address as well.
  4. Enter your daytime phone number(s) where you can be reached, and include your email address if applicable.
  5. Indicate whether you can speak, understand, read, and write in English. Note your preferred language if English is not your preference.
  6. Move to Section 2 and provide contact information for someone who can discuss your medical condition with the SSA. Ensure this person is not your doctor.
  7. In Section 3, list your current physical and/or mental health conditions, specifically those affecting your ability to work. Include height and weight as well.
  8. If you have seen any healthcare providers in the last 12 months, document their information including name, address, phone number, and what condition they treated. Repeat this for up to five providers.
  9. Complete any additional sections as necessary, making sure to answer every question to the best of your ability, even if that means indicating "none" or "does not apply."
  10. If you require more space for any answers, use Section 9, the Remarks section at the end of the form, writing down the corresponding question number.
  11. Once finished, review all entries to ensure accuracy, then submit the completed form to your local Social Security office or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate office.

After you submit the form, keep a copy of it and any documents for your records. If any questions arise, be prepared to provide further clarification or follow-up information as necessary.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the SSA-454-BK form and why do I need to complete it?

The SSA-454-BK form is a Continuing Disability Review Report required by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It helps SSA determine if you still qualify for disability benefits. Completing this report is essential to ensure that your medical condition is accurately evaluated and that you continue to receive the support you need.

What information do I need before filling out the SSA-454-BK form?

Before you start, gather key information. You'll need details about your medical condition, including your healthcare providers' names, addresses, and phone numbers. Make sure to include any medications you take and the name of an individual who can provide additional insights about your health. This might be a friend or family member, but not your doctor.

How do I get help if I'm struggling to complete the form?

If you're having difficulty filling out the form, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help. Reach out to a family member or friend who knows your situation well. If it's still too challenging, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213, where a representative can guide you through the process. Remember, don't ask your healthcare provider to assist with the form directly.

What should I do if I don't have information for a specific question?

If you encounter a question where you don't have an answer, don’t worry. Simply write "don't know," "none," or "does not apply," as appropriate. It’s crucial to respond to every question, even if that means acknowledging you don’t have certain information. This helps ensure SSA has a complete picture of your situation.

How does SSA use the information I provide on this form?

The information you provide on the SSA-454-BK will be used to assess your eligibility for continued disability benefits. SSA may also share this information with other organizations as needed, such as medical professionals or vocational consultants, to assist with their evaluations and overall claim administration. Your privacy is respected and protected throughout this process.

What happens after I complete the SSA-454-BK form?

Once you finish the form, you should send or bring it to your local Social Security office or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. SSA will review your information and may contact you for further details or clarification, if necessary.

What if I need an interpreter to assist me?

If you're not comfortable speaking or understanding English, SSA will provide an interpreter at no cost. When filling out the form, indicate your preferred language, and it will be accommodated. Communication is key, and SSA aims to ensure that everyone can access their services effectively.

Common mistakes

Filling out the SSA 454 BK form can be a daunting task, but several common mistakes can lead to delays or complications in your disability review process. Understanding these pitfalls will help ensure a smoother experience.

One major mistake is failing to provide complete information. Each section of the form is designed to collect specific information about your medical condition and personal background. Skipping questions or leaving sections unanswered can result in a request for additional information, which slows down the review process. It’s important to remember that if you do not know an answer or if something does not apply to you, stating "don’t know" or "none" is acceptable and preferred over leaving it blank.

Another frequent oversight involves not including a contact person outside of your medical providers. The SSA requires the name and phone number of a friend or family member who can vouch for your medical condition and assist with your case if needed. Omitting this contact can hinder the SSA’s ability to gather necessary information about your health.

Some individuals neglect to list all healthcare providers they have seen in the past 12 months. Accurate and comprehensive information on your treatment history is crucial, as it directly impacts the review outcome. Make sure to double-check your records to ensure all providers are included, even if the last visit was not recent.

Additionally, failing to note any changes in your condition since the last review can be detrimental. If there have been new diagnoses, treatments, or changing symptoms, this information should be included. This provides a complete picture of your current health status, which is essential for an accurate assessment.

People often misinterpret the requirement for educational and vocational information. It is essential to provide details about any work or training since your last disability decision, as this can influence eligibility for benefits. Failure to supply this information may create unnecessary delays in your case.

Some applicants mistakenly believe that they need to gather their own medical records before submitting the form. This is not the case. The SSA will obtain your medical records directly from your healthcare providers, as long as you provide their information on the form. This misunderstanding can lead to stress and wasted time.

Lastly, many individuals overlook the importance of neatly organizing their answers. Clear and legible handwriting is critical. If your writing is difficult to read or if you use excessive abbreviations and jargon, your answers may be misinterpreted or overlooked. Taking the time to complete the form legibly can help facilitate a more seamless review process.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can approach the completion of the SSA 454 BK form with greater confidence, thereby increasing the likelihood of a favorable and timely decision. Careful attention to detail can make a significant difference in navigating the disability review process effectively.

Documents used along the form

The SSA-454-BK form is a crucial document used during the continuing disability review process. Alongside this form, several other documents may be required to support a disability claim. Each of these forms serves a unique purpose and aids in providing a comprehensive view of the claimant's situation. Below is a list of commonly associated forms and documents.

  • SSA-827 - Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration: This form grants permission to healthcare providers to share medical information relevant to the disability claim. It is necessary for collecting evidence from medical professionals.
  • SSA-3368 - Adult Function Report: This report provides detailed information about an individual's daily activities, capabilities, and limitations. It helps evaluate how their condition affects their day-to-day life.
  • SSA-3373 - Function Report - Adult: Similar to the Adult Function Report, this document asks specific questions about daily activities and any assistance needed due to the individual's disability.
  • SSA-416 - Request to be Reinstated to Disability Benefits: Used when a claimant believes they are eligible for reinstatement of benefits after they have been discontinued, this form helps communicate the reasons for requesting reinstatement.
  • SSA-3441 - Report of Continuing Disability Interview: This report is used to document information gathered during an in-person interview aimed at assessing ongoing eligibility for disability benefits.
  • Form 827 - Medical Evidence of Record: This form is used to collect and submit medical records that demonstrate the current status of the claimant's disability and ongoing treatments.
  • Social Security Statement: This statement outlines earnings and credits accumulated by the claimant. It is often required to verify a person's work history and eligibility for benefits.
  • Work History Report: This document details the claimant's employment history, including job responsibilities and changes in work status due to their medical condition.

These forms collectively enhance the review process. By ensuring accurate and sufficient documentation, individuals may increase the chances of a favorable outcome in their disability claims.

Similar forms

The SSA-454-BK form serves a critical purpose in the Social Security Administration's continuing disability review process. It collects essential information about a person's health and work capabilities. Several other documents serve similar functions in assessing various aspects of disability and benefits eligibility. Below is a list of such documents and their relationships to the SSA-454-BK form:

  • Form SSA-16: Application for Disability Insurance Benefits - This form initiates the disability benefits process, requiring detailed information about the applicant's work history and medical conditions, much like the SSA-454-BK gathers information about ongoing disabilities.
  • Form SSA-827: Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration - Like the SSA-454-BK, this form allows SSA to gather medical records and information from healthcare providers, which is crucial for evaluating the continuing nature of a disability.
  • Form SSA-3368: Disability Report - Adult - This document is required when applying for disability benefits and collects comprehensive medical and vocational information. The structure is similar since both forms solicit information about health conditions and their impact on daily activities.
  • Form SSA-3373: Function Report - Adult - This form asks applicants to describe their ability to perform daily activities and work. It parallels the SSA-454-BK in that both require a detailed account of a person's functional limitations due to their conditions.
  • Form SSA-3820: Medical-Related Work Review Form - This form focuses on the individual's capacity to engage in substantial gainful activity, similar to the SSA-454-BK's purpose of assessing continuing disability.
  • Form SSA-821: Employer’s Report of Disability - This form gathers information from employers regarding an individual’s work capabilities. It complements the SSA-454-BK by providing an external perspective on the applicant's work situation.
  • Form SSA-2466: Request for Social Security Administration Adjustment - This document addresses adjustments based on changes in health or vocational status. Like the SSA-454-BK, it plays a role in the ongoing assessment of eligibility for benefits.

Understanding these documents can significantly aid individuals navigating the complex world of disability benefits. Each plays a specific role in ensuring that the right information is collected to make informed decisions regarding eligibility and support.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the SSA-454-BK form, certain practices can help ensure that your submission is clear and complete. Below is a list of things you should do and things you should avoid:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting to complete the form.
  • Do provide accurate and current contact information for someone who knows about your medical condition.
  • Do list all health care providers you have seen in the last 12 months.
  • Do include information about all medications you take, both prescription and non-prescription.
  • Do answer every question as fully as possible, and write "don't know," "none," or "does not apply" where necessary.
  • Do utilize Section 9 for any additional comments or information you wish to provide.
  • Do contact the Social Security office if you have questions or need help with the form.
  • Don't ask your healthcare provider to fill out the form on your behalf.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless directed; this may delay processing your report.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your own records.

Following these guidelines can simplify the process and help you provide the necessary information for your disability review.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The SSA-454-BK form is only for people who are currently receiving benefits.
  • This form is also used for conducting continuing disability reviews, not just for those currently receiving benefits.

  • Misconception 2: Medical providers must fill out the form.
  • Individuals should not ask their healthcare providers to complete the report. It is the responsibility of the beneficiary to complete the SSA-454-BK.

  • Misconception 3: All questions must be answered without exception.
  • It is acceptable to answer "don't know," "none," or "does not apply" where applicable. Not every question requires a response.

  • Misconception 4: There is a requirement to submit medical records directly.
  • Individuals do not need to request their medical records. The SSA will obtain the necessary records directly from healthcare providers if consent is provided.

  • Misconception 5: The SSA-454-BK form cannot be completed without assistance.
  • While assistance from friends or family is encouraged, it is possible for individuals to fill out the report independently.

  • Misconception 6: If the report is not filled out perfectly, it will be rejected.
  • Inaccuracies will not lead to automatic rejection. The SSA aims to ensure an accurate assessment based on the information provided.

  • Misconception 7: Only recent medical information is required.
  • Individuals may need to provide information about any changes in their conditions or treatments from the past 12 months, including education and vocational rehabilitation.

  • Misconception 8: The SSA-454-BK is a one-time form that does not require updates.
  • This form is typically submitted during reviews, and information may need to be updated or clarified in future reviews.

  • Misconception 9: Providing personal information is not necessary.
  • Complete and accurate personal information is vital for the SSA to assess benefits or reviews effectively.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the SSA-454-BK form, which is essential for your continuing disability review:

  • The SSA-454-BK form is designed to help the Social Security Administration assess if you still meet disability criteria.
  • It is crucial to provide as much information as you can, as incomplete reports can delay your evaluation.
  • Do not ask healthcare providers to complete the form; assistance should come from friends or family.
  • Gather necessary information beforehand, including contact details for someone familiar with your health and your healthcare providers.
  • Include any medications you’ve used in the past 12 months, whether prescribed or over-the-counter.
  • Answer every question in the form, even if you are unsure. Use "don’t know," "none," or "does not apply" to indicate your situation.
  • Keep track of your medical history, including treatments and any vocational training you’ve undergone since the last decision.
  • Personal medical records will be obtained directly by the SSA from your healthcare providers, so you do not need to collect these yourself.
  • After filling out the form, send it to your local Social Security office or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for processing.
  • It's important to retain the initial instruction sheet for your records after submitting the form.