RFC form in a Social Security Claim

All about the RFC form in a Social Security Claim

The residual functional capacity (RFC) form is an assessment of your ability to perform work-related activities considering all of your medical conditions. The RFC is a staple item in disability claims.

There are many types of RFCs. Some RFCs relate to physical impairments while others relate to mental impairments. Some medical impairments have an RFC form that relates specifically to that condition. But regardless of the medical condition you suffer from, it is important to encourage your medical provider to fill out these forms.

So, what if you have more than one doctor? The doctor best equipped to answer the questions related to your conditions should complete the RFC. For example, if you suffer from a heart condition and have both a general practitioner and a cardiologist, the cardiologist should complete the RFC if it specifically relates to your heart condition. If your cardiologist is unable or unwilling to complete the RFC, you should also ask your general practitioner.

The following list contains important information to consider when the Social Security Administration evaluates an RFC:

1. The RFC should be filled out completely and legibly. If the adjudicator cannot read the handwriting, it will bring no benefit to your claim.
2. The RFC should list objective medical findings to support the limitations reflected in the completed form. (i.e. diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in June of 2012)
3. The RFC should be supported by consistent medical records. In other words, your medical records from visits to your doctor should match the RFC. If the RFC does not have supportive medical records, the form may not hold as much value even if it reflects severe limitations.
4. Be honest with your doctor. Opening up can be very difficult for most, however; open communication with your medical provider regarding your symptoms and limitations will reflect in your medical records which can support the RFCs completed in the future.

It is important to remember that RFCs must not only reflect your inability to perform your past work but also any other type of work that you could perform. Many jobs must be eliminated in order for you to be found disabled under the law.

If you have additional questions on RFCs, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 1-877-526-3457. If you can’t talk now, fill out this form so that we may contact you at a later time.