How does SSA determine the nature of limitations on a claimant’s ability to work?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines the nature of limitations on a claimant’s ability to work primarily by assessing strong medical evidence and reports. This involves a thorough examination of medical records, diagnoses from healthcare providers, treatment histories, and any relevant test results. The SSA looks for credible and objective evidence that supports the claimant's assertions about their disability and how it affects their functional capacity.

Medical evidence is critical because it provides a clear picture of the claimant's physical or mental health conditions and their severity. This evidence helps the SSA evaluate whether a claimant meets the social security criteria for disability, which includes an assessment of how medical conditions limit the ability to engage in substantial gainful activity. Strong medical documentation can include hospital records, notes from physicians, and results from diagnostic tests, and is essential for establishing the foundation of the individual's claim.

While interviews with claimants and psychological testing can provide additional context about their limitations, they are not the primary basis for determining disability, nor are educational background and skills typically the main focus when assessing physical or mental impairments. Thus, medical evidence stands out as the most significant in the SSA's determination process.