Are you applying for Social Security Disability benefits? If so, you’ve probably heard the term “Residual Functional Capacity,” or RFC. Let’s break down what Residual Functional Capacity is and why it’s important for your disability claim.
What Is Residual Functional Capacity?
Residual Functional Capacity is a measure of what you can still do despite your disabling medical condition and any resulting physical or mental limitations. Your RFC determines your ability to perform work-related tasks and activities on a regular basis.
Why Does Your RFC Matter?
In the event your disability doesn’t qualify for benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses an RFC assessment to determine if you’re still unable to work. They want to know if you can perform any past relevant work or new type of work. An RFC helps them decide if you qualify for disability benefits even though your condition isn’t technically a qualifying condition.
What Is the Blue Book?
The Blue Book is the SSA’s list of impairments that can qualify for disability. It includes criteria for each condition. If you meet Blue Book criteria for a disability, you may automatically qualify for benefits.
If your specific medical impairment doesn’t meet Blue Book criteria, you might still qualify based on your RFC. This is why a Residual Functional Capacity assessment can be critical to your case.
How Is Residual Functional Capacity Measured?
The SSA uses all relevant evidence in the case record to complete an RFC assessment. The adjudicator must consider all reports of physical and mental limitations or restrictions. All constraints imposed by every impairment need to be considered, including those that are not deemed “severe.”
The assessment should explain how evidence, both medical and non-medical, supports each conclusion. Evidence can include things like laboratory findings, observations, or daily activities. The adjudicator will also need to address any inconsistencies or uncertainties in the evidence.
The adjudicator should discuss the individual’s capacity to work in a typical job environment. They must explain the maximum level of work-related activity the claimant can perform according to provided evidence. An RFC assessment must address the claimant’s remaining capacities at an exertional level and nonexertional level.
Additionally, a RFC assessment should take into account medical source opinions. If there’s a discrepancy between the evaluation and a medical source opinion, the adjudicator must clarify why the opinion wasn’t adopted.
More About Physical Residual Functional Capacity
The SSA classifies work in the national economy using 5 categories, including:
- Sedentary work
- Light work
- Medium work
- Heavy work
- Very heavy work
These are the exertional levels that will help determine what work you’re capable of doing. The SSA will measure specific abilities, such as whether or not you can lift, stand, walk, or sit for long periods.
From a nonexertional standpoint, they will assess other capabilities, such as whether you can understand and remember instructions.
Contact the Law Office of Gerard Lynch
Navigating the disability application process can be tricky, especially if your disability doesn’t meet Blue Book criteria. That’s where we come in. At the Law Office of Gerard Lynch, we:
- Understand how RFC affects your claim
- Know how to gather strong medical evidence to support your claim
- Can help you through the appeals process if necessary
We’re here to help you get the benefits you deserve. Whether your condition is listed in the Blue Book or not, we can help you present a strong case.
Contact the Law Office of Gerard Lynch for a free case evaluation. Let our Houston disability lawyer guide you through the claims process and fight for your rights.
