How to Show That MS Impairs Your Ability to Work Using the RFC Form

Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating disease that can make daily living a challenge. Equally challenging is holding a job and performing this job fully. When you are no longer able to perform certain functions, you may be unable to work. This can be frustrating and scary. When this happens, you need Social Security Disability Insurance benefits to help you live.

When MS Prevents You From Working

Sometimes, people may be impaired to the point where they are unable to work. Still, they do not qualify for SSDI because they do not meet the specific requirements set in place by the Social Security Administration (SSA). When this happens, it is important to know that you still have options.

Residual Functional Capacity Form

To determine the level of impairment caused by your multiple sclerosis, the SSA will use a special form called a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form. Here’s what the form measures:

• Physical Abilities. Many jobs require that you are able to lift, push, pull, or carry certain items. If your multiple sclerosis impairs your ability to do this, you may qualify for SSDI. Other physical symptoms that may impair your ability to work include difficulty with balance and walking, numbness, or weakness in the arms and legs.
• Mental Abilities. Mental impairments may also make it difficult to perform a job well. Some of the mental abilities tested in the RFC are your memory, concentration, and ability to understand or carry out instructions.
• Sensory Functions. The loss of other sensory functions may also impair your ability to do certain types of work. These functions include hearing loss, low vision, or any speech problems.

Although you do not have to be impaired in all of the categories, physical, mental, and sensory, you must have impairments in enough that prevent you from doing any work. Once the SSA receives the RFC, caseworkers will compare your impairments to a list of possible jobs for people with your education and experience level. If they determine that there is no work that you can do, then you will qualify for SSDI benefits.

Qualifying For Disability with MS

Qualifying for these benefits is not easy. Contact a Boston SSDI lawyer at Keefe Disability Law to learn how to fill out the RFC form accurately and to the standard sought by the SSA.

Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?

If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 888.904.6847 to schedule your free consultation.