What non-medical factors does the SSDI program consider for Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) in New York?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/19/2025


What non-medical factors does the SSDI program consider for Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) in New York? In New York, the SSDI program evaluates non-medical factors alongside medical evidence to determine your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). These factors help the SSA understand how your condition affects your ability to work on a daily basis beyond just your physical or mental impairments. The assessment of non-medical elements includes your educational background, work history, and environmental conditions. This approach ensures a comprehensive review of what kind of work, if any, you can perform given your unique circumstances.

Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.

Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.


Consideration of Work History

The SSDI program evaluates:

  • Your previous job duties and how your impairments impact those tasks.
  • Duration and type of past employment in relation to your functional abilities.
Educational Level and Skills

The SSA examines:

  • Highest grade completed and any specialized training or skills.
  • How education affects your ability to adjust to other types of work.
Age Affecting Work Capacity

Age can influence RFC by:

  • Determining how your age interacts with other factors to limit work options.
  • Recognizing that older applicants may face greater difficulty adapting to new work environments.
Environmental and Social Factors

Other aspects include:

  • Access to transportation which affects the feasibility of attending work.
  • Availability of support systems like family or community assistance in managing daily tasks.
Workplace Adaptability and Restrictions

SSA considers:

  • Potential accommodations or limitations you might face in various work settings.
  • Whether physical or social restrictions limit your ability to perform even simple tasks.
>
Consistency and Reliability

The SSA reviews:

  • How consistently you can sustain work-like activities throughout an extended period.
  • Your history of attendance and ability to follow workplace routines.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we guide New York SSDI applicants in understanding the impact of non-medical factors on their Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessments.

  • Evaluating your educational and work history to highlight strengths and limitations relevant to the SSA’s evaluation.
  • Advising on how social and environmental circumstances may affect your ability to sustain employment.
  • Assisting you in documenting non-medical elements that support your case for disability benefits.
  • Representing your interests during SSA hearings to ensure all non-medical factors are considered in determining your RFC.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you need help navigating how non-medical factors influence your SSDI Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) claim in New York, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to helping you present a complete case to the SSA and maximizing your chances of approval through expert guidance.


Further Reading

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

Boost Your Chance of Being Approved

Get the Compensation You Deserve

Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.


How It Works
A black and white drawing of a checklist and a handshake.
1

Briefly tell us about your case

A stack of papers with lines on them on a white background.
2

Provide your contact information

A black and white icon of a scale of justice and a briefcase.
3

Choose attorneys to contact you