2.5 Vocational Factors

Question 1

“What vocational factors does SSA consider?”

Answer 1

“Age: Younger individuals are presumed more adaptable.”
“Education: Higher levels of education suggest more transferable skills.”
“Work experience: Skills from past jobs may apply to other work.”
Explanation: “These factors are considered in conjunction with RFC to evaluate whether the claimant can adjust to other work.”
Source: CFR §404.1560.

Question 2

“What is the role of the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (Grid Rules)?”

Answer 2

“To guide decisions on disability for claimants who do not meet or equal a Listing.”
Explanation: “The Grid Rules factor in age, education, RFC, and work experience to determine whether disability is presumed.”