Residual Functional Capacity in Social Security Disability Law
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Understanding Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, one of the most important factors in your case is your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). Simply put, RFC is an assessment of what you can still do despite your medical condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses RFC to measure your ability to perform work-related activities, both physical and mental, on a regular and continuing basis.
Think of residual functional capacity as the bridge between your medical records and your ability to work. It doesn’t just look at your diagnosis—it evaluates how your condition limits your daily functioning. For example, someone with chronic back pain may be restricted from lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods, while someone with severe depression may struggle with concentration or maintaining a consistent work schedule.
How Is Residual Functional Capacity Determined?
The SSA determines RFC by reviewing medical evidence, doctor’s opinions, and sometimes consultative examinations. They consider:
- Physical limitations: Can you sit, stand, walk, lift, or carry objects?
- Mental limitations: Can you concentrate, follow instructions, interact with others, or handle stress?
- Consistency of ability: Can you perform these tasks for eight hours a day, five days a week, or the equivalent?
A vocational expert may also testify about the demands of your past work and whether your RFC allows you to perform it. The VE is an important part of the SSA’s decision process. However, the VE is not a doctor, so getting the right medical reports into evidence will help to either convince the VE to give favorable testimony, or give us the right arguments against the VE’s opinions.
Additionally, you will testify at your hearing and answer questions about the things you can and cannot do. Many of these questions are trick questions that your lawyer can help you prepare to answer correctly.
How Do You Get an RFC Assessment?
You don’t “apply” for RFC separately—it’s automatically part of your disability claim. However, you can strengthen your RFC evaluation by:
- Submitting comprehensive medical records
- Asking your doctor to complete an RFC form that details your limitations
- Providing evidence of how your condition affects your daily life
The more detailed your medical documentation, the more accurate your RFC assessment will be. That’s why getting narrative reports from your doctor make great evidence in these cases. Also, a medical source statement is designed to help establish your residual functional capacity.
The truth is that RFC is not an individual form, but an idea created by all of the evidence in the record combined. Weak medical narratives allow judges to think less of your RFC. Good, strong, definitive opinions from your doctor help the judge form a conclusive opinion about your RFC.
How Does the SSA Use RFC?
RFC is critical in the SSA’s five-step disability evaluation process:
- Step 4: The SSA compares your RFC to your past relevant work. If you can’t perform your old job, the process moves forward.
- Step 5: The SSA considers whether you can adjust to other work in the national economy, factoring in your age, education, and work experience.
If your RFC shows that you cannot sustain full-time work, you may be found disabled and eligible for benefits.
Call MLF Legal Today – 214-357-1782
At MLF Legal, we know how overwhelming the disability process can be. Understanding Residual Functional Capacity is just one piece of the puzzle—but it’s often the deciding factor in whether benefits are approved.
If you’re struggling with a disability claim in Dallas–Fort Worth, or anywhere in the United States, contact MLF Legal today for a free consultation. Our social security disability attorneys can help ensure your RFC is fully documented and presented to the SSA.
FAQs About Residual Functional Capacity
What is Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)?
RFC is the SSA’s assessment of what you can still do physically and mentally despite your medical condition.
Who determines RFC?
The SSA evaluates RFC using medical records, doctor opinions, and sometimes vocational expert testimony.
Can my doctor help with RFC?
Yes. Doctors can complete RFC forms that provide detailed insight into your limitations, which can strengthen your case.
Why is RFC important?
RFC is used to decide whether you can return to past work or adjust to new work. It often determines whether you qualify for disability benefits.