How Does Social Security Evaluate Residual Functional Capacity?

 Posted on November 16, 2021 in Social Security disability

There are many different health issues that can limit a person’s ability to perform work and complete daily tasks. When these issues prevent a person from working at a level that will allow them to maintain a certain level of income, they may be able to receive Social Security disability benefits. However, to qualify for these benefits, an applicant must demonstrate that they meet certain eligibility requirements. When evaluating a case, multiple factors will be considered, including residual functional capacity, or RFC.

What Is Residual Functional Capacity?

Social Security will look at whether physical or mental conditions will prevent a person from engaging in the types of work they have done in the past and any other forms of employment that may be available. Residual functional capacity is determined based on the types of work activities a person is able to perform while addressing the limitations caused by their health conditions.

When determining residual functional capacity, Social Security will consider multiple types of limitations that may apply in a person’s individual situation. These include issues that affect their physical abilities, such as whether they are able to sit or stand for extended periods, lift and carry objects of different weights, reach overhead, or bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, or crawl when performing work. Social Security will also evaluate any limitations on a person’s mental abilities, including their ability to remember information, understand and follow instructions, engage in simple or complex tasks, respond to supervisors, and interact appropriately with coworkers or customers.

A variety of other issues may also play a role in determining RFC, such as whether a person has conditions that have resulted in sensitivity to certain types of chemicals or whether they have hearing or vision impairments that affect the types of work they can perform. Social Security will consider the total effects of all of a person’s symptoms, including those that may not be considered a disability on their own. Any unique issues that may affect a person’s ability to work should be considered, including forms of pain that may limit their movements or physical abnormalities and mental or emotional concerns that make it difficult for them to maintain a consistent pace of work.

Contact a Milwaukee Social Security Disability Lawyer for RFC

The limitations that apply to the types of work you can perform are an important factor in a Social Security disability claim. Attorney Jonathan Pearson can make sure Social Security considers these issues correctly when determining whether you are eligible for disability benefits. In addition to providing assistance during the application process, he can help you appeal a denied claim and present evidence in a hearing to show that you do not have the residual functional capacity to maintain gainful employment. Contact a Waukesha County Social Security disability claim attorney today at 414-240-4801 to set up a complimentary consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/cfr20/416/416-0945.htm

https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/rulings/di/02/SSR83-10-di-02.html