Physical Functional Capacity in Social Security Disability Claims

An individual's physical functional capacity refers to their ability to perform work-related tasks. This capacity is determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) during its determination of whether an applicant is truly disabled according to Social Security guidelines. A disability benefit applicant's functional capacity impacts whether they receive benefits and, if so, how much they receive.

Physical Functional Capacity Explained

Physical functional capacity refers to what a disability benefit applicant can do to earn money. It includes the physical and mental limitations imposed by the disability. During the first step of the investigation of an applicant's capacity, an SSA case worker analyzes the applicant's dexterity, flexibility, memory, comprehension and other skills to determine if they are able to perform the same job they did previously. If they are able to perform that same job, the case worker will likely not determine that the applicant is disabled and will deny them benefits.

If, however, it is clear that the applicant cannot perform the tasks of their previous job, the case worker will investigate whether there is any job that they can do. This step, therefore, includes the new limitations placed on the applicant by their disability. If the applicant is able to perform another job, they may not be found disabled or may have their benefits reduced by the amount of income they can earn from that job. This step is often referred to as the applicant's "residual functional capacity," because it analyzes what an applicant can continue to do after becoming disabled.

Residual Functional Capacity Form

When analyzing the types of jobs an applicant can perform, the SSA requires applicants to complete a "Residual Functional Capacity Assessment." The RFC form addresses both physical and mental limitations. Physical functions examined include:

• Exertional: Ability to lift, stand, push, pull and walk
• Postural: Capability to climb, balance, kneel or crawl
• Manipulative: Ability to reach, feel and handle objects
• Visual: Ability to see, the extent of the field of vision and whether any visual correction is required
• Communicative: Whether the applicant can hear and speak
• Environmental: The applicant's sensitivities to cold or heat

For each of these sections, the applicant identifies whether they are limited or not limited in their use or performance. If limited, the applicant must describe the limitation and provide medical documentation of it.

Mental functions examined include understanding and memory, sustained concentration and persistence, social interaction and adaptation. These aspects are analyzed as not significantly, moderate or markedly limited. Here again, evidence of the disability must be provided. The form must be completed with the initial application and also during the time when the applicant receives benefits. If the beneficiary is a child, the case worker may permit their parent to complete the form, or may request that a physician complete it.

If you are uncertain about how your physical functional capacity could be viewed by the SSA, seek legal advice. An attorney will review your medical records and discuss how it could impact your receiving benefits.