If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability (SSDI), you’ve likely heard about the RFC form — the Residual Functional Capacity assessment that tells Social Security what kind of work, if any, you can still do.
But here’s the truth: most SSDI denials happen because the RFC is missing, incomplete, or written the wrong way.
This guide breaks down how to get the right RFC form, what to include, and how to make sure it actually helps your claim.
✅ 1. What Exactly Is an RFC Form?
RFC stands for Residual Functional Capacity – it’s a detailed evaluation of your physical and mental limitations caused by your medical conditions.
It answers the crucial question SSA uses in every disability case:
“What can this person still do on a regular, sustained basis?”
There are two kinds:
- Physical RFC: focuses on sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and use of hands.
- Mental RFC: focuses on memory, focus, attendance, stress tolerance, and pace.
✅ 2. Why SSA’s Own RFC Isn’t Enough
SSA has its own doctors fill out internal RFC forms – but they never examine you in person. They just skim medical records and often underestimate your limitations.
That’s why it’s critical to submit an RFC from your treating doctor or specialist. A well-supported RFC from your physician can outweigh SSA’s internal opinion; if done correctly; ALJs look specifically for these medical track records.
✅ 3. Who Should Complete Your RFC Form?
- Knows your condition well (rheumatologist, psychiatrist, neurologist, etc.)
- Has treated you for at least several months
- Documents symptoms regularly
Avoid having your RFC filled out by urgent care or one-time examiners – their opinions carry less weight.
If you have multiple conditions, get separate RFCs from each relevant specialist. For instance:
- A rheumatologist for autoimmune disorders
- A psychiatrist for depression, PTSD, or anxiety
- A pain management specialist for chronic pain or fibromyalgia
✅ 4. What a Strong RFC Form Should Include
SSA judges look for specific, measurable limitations – not vague statements. Your doctor’s RFC should specify:
- How long you can sit, stand, or walk in an 8-hour workday
- How much you can lift or carry
- Whether you need frequent breaks or to lie down
- How often you’d miss work or lose focus
- The impact of pain, fatigue, or medications on performance
Each limitation should be supported by medical findings (MRI, labs, neuro tests, or exam notes).
✅ 5. How to Get an RFC Form Done Right
Here’s the process disability attorneys use:
- Ask your attorney for the correct RFC form (SSA’s forms are often generic — we use tailored versions).
- Have your treating doctor complete it: with objective evidence noted.
- Review for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Submit it early: before the hearing stage if possible.
When the RFC matches the medical evidence and your personal testimony, it becomes one of the strongest pieces of your disability claim.
✅ 6. Why an Attorney’s Guidance Matters
We make sure your RFC:
- Matches SSA’s format and phrasing
- Avoids “trigger phrases” that cause rejections
- Aligns with your medical records and testimony
This can mean the difference between denial and approval.
⚖️ Need Help Getting the Right RFC?
Our law firm works directly with your doctors to ensure your RFC supports your claim: not weakens it.
📞 Free consultation: We’ll review your medical records and identify what RFC you need.
🧾 No fee unless we win your case.
