Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) in Social Security Claims

What RFC means

RFC is not a diagnosis, a doctor’s prediction, or simply the easiest activity you can perform. It is an administrative finding of the most you can still do on a sustained basis in a work setting, based on the relevant evidence in the record. SSA considers the combined effects of medically determinable impairments and related symptoms.

How SSA assesses RFC

SSA first looks at specific abilities rather than starting with a job label. That can include sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, handling objects, following instructions, maintaining attention, interacting with others, and adapting to changes. Medical records, treatment history, medical-source opinions, your descriptions, and observations from other people may all be considered.

SSA—not your doctor—makes the RFC finding. For claims filed under current medical-opinion rules, SSA does not automatically give a treating provider’s opinion controlling weight. Supportability and consistency with the record are the most important factors SSA must consider.

Read the RFC regulationHow SSA evaluates medical opinions

Why RFC matters

At Step 4, SSA compares your RFC with the demands of past relevant work. If you cannot return to that work, SSA uses the RFC at Step 5 along with age, education, and work experience to decide whether other work exists that you can do. The Medical-Vocational Guidelines can direct a result when their criteria fit; otherwise they may be used as a framework.

Read about Step 4 and past relevant workSee how the Grid Rules work

A work level is only a summary

Sedentary, light, medium, heavy, and very heavy describe strength demands. The label does not capture every limitation. A person may also have restrictions on position changes, pace, attendance, reaching, handling, or exposure to workplace conditions. Those details can affect whether the full range of jobs at a level remains available.