2.4 Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Flashcards
“What is Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)?”
“An assessment of the most a claimant can do despite their physical or mental limitations.”
Explanation: “RFC considers activities like sitting, standing, lifting, concentration, and interacting with others.”
Source: CFR §404.1545.
“What are the categories of RFC?”
Answer:
“Physical RFC: Evaluates exertional and non-exertional limitations.”
“Mental RFC: Evaluates limitations in understanding, remembering, and interacting with others.”
Explanation: “The RFC assessment helps determine whether a claimant can return to past relevant work or adjust to other work.”
“How is RFC used in disability determinations?”
Answer: “RFC is compared against the demands of past relevant work and other potential jobs in the national economy.”
Source: SSA Vocational Guidelines.
Case Scenario: Karen, a 50-year-old nurse, suffers from degenerative disc disease. The SSA determines that she has an RFC limiting her to sedentary work. Karen’s past work was physically demanding.
Question: Can Karen qualify for disability benefits based on her RFC?
Answer: Yes, Karen may qualify for disability benefits because her RFC prevents her from performing her past relevant work, and her age limits her ability to adjust to other work.
Legal Explanation: RFC is used to determine the claimant’s ability to perform past relevant work (Step 4) or adjust to other work in the national economy (Step 5). For older individuals, vocational factors like age and transferable skills weigh heavily in the decision.
Key Takeaways for Section 2
Definition of Disability:
Impairment must be medically determinable, severe, and last at least 12 months.
Sequential Evaluation Process:
Five steps assess work activity, medical severity, Listings, past work, and other work.
Listings of Impairments:
Meeting or equaling a Listing automatically qualifies the claimant.
Residual Functional Capacity:
Evaluates the claimant’s ability to perform work despite limitations.
Residual Functional Capacity:
Evaluates the claimant’s ability to perform work despite limitations.
