Key Factors in a Social Security Disability Case

Here are a few key ingredients that go into a Social Security disability case.  I am referring mainly to the hearing level - but to some degree, these "ingredients" go into cases at all levels of consideration.

• Claimant's Age:  It is a little easier for claimants over age 50.  That doesn't mean younger claimants can't win; they certainly do.  But we may have to work harder.
• Education level:  The more education a claimant has, the more likely the ability to transition into "other work."  The "occupational base" will be larger.
• Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) - refers to the maximum exertional abilities the claimant can still perform even with his/her impairments.
• Relevant Past Work - refers to all the jobs the claimant has performed within the past 15 years (with some conditions applied).
• Are there transferable skills?  If the claimant has worked in very skilled occupations, she may have skills that will transfer to other types of work.
• Exertional limitations - lack of ability to lift, carry, walk, push, pull, etc.
• Postural limitations - can the claimant kneel, bend, crouch, crawl, climb, stoop, etc.?  Is her ability to sit for prolonged periods of time restricted?
• Non-exertional limitations - may also include mental restrictions, such as the ability to understand and follow instructions, make work related decisions, or respond appropriately to supervision, co-workers or others.

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