RFC (Residual Functional Capacity)

Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is SSA's assessment of the most you can still do in a work setting despite the limitations caused by your impairments. A physical RFC addresses abilities such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, and manipulating objects, and typically places you at a sedentary, light, medium, or heavy exertional level. A mental RFC covers concentration, memory, persistence, pace, social interaction, and the ability to handle workplace stress and changes.

Your RFC is central at steps four and five of the sequential evaluation, where SSA decides whether you can perform your past work or adjust to other work. Detailed opinions from your treating providers describing specific functional limits can strongly influence the RFC finding.