Written Notice for a Consultative Exam (CE): What It Means and What to Expect
Understanding the Notice You Receive
When the Social Security Administration (SSA) or your state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) decides that more medical information is needed to review your disability claim, you may be scheduled for a Consultative Examination (CE).
Before that happens, SSA policy requires DDS to send you a written notice explaining the details of the appointment. This letter is part of the SSA’s due process protections—it ensures that claimants understand why the exam is being requested and how to prepare for it.
What the Written Notice Usually Includes
According to SSA procedures, the CE notice typically provides:
The reason a consultative exam or test is being requested.
The date, time, and location of the appointment.
The name and address of the medical provider.
Information that the SSA pays for the exam, and in some cases, reimburses travel expenses.
A reminder to bring photo identification, medications, or medical aids like glasses or hearing devices.
Details about how to contact the scheduling office if you have questions or conflicts.
Information about authorizing the SSA to share the CE report with your medical provider (optional).
A notice explaining that if you do not attend the exam without a valid reason, the SSA may make a decision based on the existing evidence in your file.
These details are outlined in the SSA’s internal policy manual, POMS DI 22510.016, which governs how DDS schedules and documents CEs.
The Official Form Used for the CE Exam Notice
The CE exam written notice is based on Form NL 00705.745, titled “Consultative Examination (CE) Appointment Notice and Forms.” This is the official model letter used by DDS offices to notify claimants about an upcoming consultative exam. It includes the exam’s purpose, date, time, and location, along with information about reimbursement for travel and the possibility of rescheduling if necessary.
Form NL 00705.745 also includes standard due process language explaining that SSA may make a decision based on the evidence already on file if a claimant does not attend the exam without good cause. Each state DDS may customize its format slightly, but this form serves as the national template for CE appointment notices.
The SSA website has a link to the official Consultative Examination (CE) Appointment Notice form template (Form NL 00705.745) under SSA POMS NL 00705.745
How Claimants Are Notified
DDS generally sends the written notice by mail, and may also follow up with a telephone call or reminder. The notice is expected to provide reasonable advance time—generally five to ten days—so you can make arrangements or contact DDS if you have a conflict.
In many states, a contracted medical scheduling service assists DDS by coordinating appointments, confirming attendance, and recording any communication about rescheduling or cancellations.
If You Need to Change the Appointment
SSA policy allows claimants to contact DDS if they have a valid reason to reschedule, need an interpreter, or require accommodations such as accessible transportation or facilities. The notice typically includes the phone number or address of the person or office to contact.
Each situation is handled individually according to SSA policy and applicable federal regulations.
What Happens If You Don’t Attend
If a claimant does not attend the scheduled exam and does not contact DDS, the agency may move forward using the evidence already in the record. SSA regulations refer to this as a “failure to cooperate.”
Before issuing a decision, DDS must confirm that all reasonable attempts to contact or reschedule have been documented in the case record. This is detailed in the Code of Federal Regulations (20 CFR 404.1518).
Why the Written Notice Matters
The written notice for a Consultative Exam serves several important purposes:
It documents that SSA and DDS followed proper scheduling procedures.
It ensures claimants have clear, written information about the appointment.
It protects both the claimant and the agency by providing transparency.
Keeping the notice in your records can help you stay organized and understand your next steps in the disability review process.
References
Social Security Administration. (n.d.). POMS DI 22510.016 – Failure to Attend a Consultative Examination. Retrieved October 2025 from https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0422510016
Social Security Administration. (n.d.). POMS DI 22510.012 – CE Appointment Notice Requirements. Retrieved October 2025 from https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0422510012
Social Security Administration. (n.d.). NL 00705.745 – Consultative Examination (CE) Appointment Notice and Forms. Retrieved October 2025 from https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0900705745
Code of Federal Regulations. (2025). 20 CFR 404.1518 – Failure to Attend a Consultative Examination. Retrieved October 2025 from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-20/section-404.1518
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. For questions about your situation, contact the Social Security Administration. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions. Consult with a licensed attorney for legal advice.
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