Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a financial lifeline for those with a disability or medical condition that prevents them from being able to support themselves and their families.
Whether you’re applying for SSDI benefits or are already receiving them, you’ve likely already encountered a number of unfamiliar terms and acronyms. It’s important to understand them. Let’s look at an important one: residual functional capacity (RFC).
What is RFC and how is it determined?
RFC refers to a person’s “maximum remaining ability” to do the job they had prior to their illness or injury, as well as to do other jobs on a continuing basis. In other words, can they work a regular workday and work week despite the limitations they have because of their condition?
A person’s RFC is first determined when they apply for SSDI. It is “assessed by adjudicators at each level of the administrative review process,” according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), based on information the applicant provides as well as that provided by their doctor(s). According to the SSA, “in assessing RFC, the adjudicator must consider only limitations and restrictions attributable to medically determinable impairments.”
Is RFC reassessed, and how often?
Those receiving SSDI are subject to a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) periodically. Part of this review is a reassessment of their RFC. CDR frequency depends on whether and how much medical improvement is expected. This can range from 6 to 18 months if it’s expected to as long as 7 years if it’s not.
Understanding terms like RFC can help applicants and beneficiaries better prepare their application and deal with follow-up assessments and present a strong and thorough case for why they need these benefits. Having experienced legal guidance can prove to be very valuable in doing this.