Sequential Evaluation

The sequential evaluation is the five-step process SSA uses to decide every adult disability claim, in a fixed order. Step one asks whether you are working above the substantial gainful activity level. Step two asks whether you have a severe, medically determinable impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Step three asks whether your condition meets or equals a listing.

If not, SSA assesses your residual functional capacity, then asks at step four whether you can perform your past relevant work, and at step five whether you can adjust to other work considering your age, education, and experience. The burden shifts to SSA at step five, where the medical-vocational grid rules and vocational testimony often decide the case.