All disability benefits applications have to be evaluated by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine whether the person is eligible. Part of this process involves a residual functional capacity evaluation which looks at both physical and mental limitations. Do not panic if your initial application was denied. Talk to a Philadelphia denied benefits appeal lawyer about what steps you can take next.

What is Residual Functional Capacity?

Residual functional capacity is one way the SSA determines whether someone needs disability benefits. The goal of conducting a residual functional capacity evaluation is to figure out whether a disability will prevent someone from working. This includes past work, current work, and any other types of work a person may not have tried yet.

Both physical and mental abilities are examined with a residual functional capacity evaluation. The way these are tested is by assessing the most a person can do, physically or mentally. This helps reveal how severe the disability is and whether a person would be able to return to work despite having a disability.

Medical evidence and non-medical evidence will be used during this evaluation. In some cases, this may also involve undergoing a consultative examination. A consultative examination involves undergoing a basic evaluation of your symptoms by a professional chosen by the SSA. The report generated from this evaluation will be used as part of the residual functional capacity evaluation.

The SSA will also base this decision on statements and descriptions of your symptoms from you and your loved ones. This includes descriptions of any physical or mental limitations you are struggling with.

How Mental Residual Functional Capacity is Measured

A residual functional capacity evaluation examines physical residual functional capacity and mental residual functional capacity. Physical capacity looks at things like how much a person can lift or pull objects of different weights. Whereas mental residual functional capacity examines:

·      Concentration and persistence

·      Understanding and memory

·      Ability to adapt

·      Social interaction

This type of evaluation usually involves answering questions related to work activities and requirements. For example, a question could ask whether the person can remember work task instructions. Answering these questions as honestly as possible is important for making sure you receive the benefits you need.

Once all of the questions in these four main areas are answered, the examiner will be instructed to rate these areas. This rating system ranges from not significantly impaired to markedly impaired. In many cases, the examiner is the person’s primary care physician.

Difficulties in daily living and mental deficits may also be evaluated with further questions. If you have any questions about this process, then consider contacting a Philadelphia disability lawyer who can help. A lawyer might be able to increase your chances of receiving disability benefits.

Disability Attorney in Philadelphia

Trying to navigate all the requirements of disability benefits is not always easy. Feel free to consult with a Philadelphia disability lawyer to explore your options for disability benefits. All you have to do is call Edelstein Martin & Nelson today at (800) 300-0909 for a consultation about your disability claim. Our team of attorneys might be able to help you obtain disability benefits.