Step 1: Consider Your Age

The SSA looks at:

• Your age category(younger, closely approaching retirement, or advanced age) affects job adaptability.
• Older applicants may be considered less able to adjust to new work environments.

Step 2: Evaluate Education Level

Your educational background matters:

• Formal education impacts your ability to learn new skills or perform different jobs.
• Limited education can restrict opportunities to adapt to other types of work.

Step 3: Review Work Experience

Your previous jobs influence RFC:

• Past work skills and how transferable they are to other positions.
• Work history consistency can affect SSA’s view of your employability.

Step 4: Assess Transferable Skills

The agency considers:

• Skills you can apply to different types of work despite your limitations.
• Ability to adjust to employment that accommodates your RFC.

Step 5: Factor in Your Ability to Adapt

Non-medical aspects include:

• Motivation and adaptability to new work tasks or environments.
• Social skills and communication which affect workplace success.

Step 6: Consider Language and Learning Barriers

The SSA also looks at:

• Proficiency in English or other languages crucial for job performance.
• Learning difficulties that might limit ability to acquire new skills.