A consideration that needs to be made during the disability application is something that is known as Residual Functional Capacity or RFC. What this is, is a total of what you will be left capable of accomplishing after your impairment or condition has taken its toll. This concept is used when determining whether or not a disability applicant is capable of working, even with their condition or impairment. The Social Security Administration identifies the Residual Functional Capacity in terms of the following categories:

-- Sedentary Work
-- Light Work
-- Medium Work
-- Heavy Work

About Sedentary Work

This type of work, according to the Social Security Administration, involves lifting 10lbs or less at a time, and sometimes carrying or lifting small articles such as ledgers, docket files, small tools and so on. Sitting is primarily what is required in a job categorized as being sedentary, however standing and walking may also be required on an occasional basis. Only two hours of the eight hour workday should involve standing and walking, with sitting making up the remaining six hours out of the average eight hour work day.

About Light Work

This type of work, according to the Social Security Administration, involves lifting 10lbs or less at a time, or carrying objects that can weigh as much as 10lbs. Light work can generally involve a good amount of walking and standing, such as approximately six out of every eight hours in a workday. Good use of arms and hands for holding and grasping will also be required for many jobs in this category. Another category of jobs that falls into this light work category is sitting position jobs that involve extensive use of foot or hand controls.

Maximum Residual Functional Capacity

The maximum amount of RFC or Residual Functional Capacity that is allowed for the age category of between 18 and 44 years of age is below the sedentary work level in order for a disability application to be approved by the Social Security Administration.

The maximum level of RFC or Residual Functional Capacity that is allowed for literate people that are between the ages of 45 and 49 is less than sedentary regardless of their education level.

For people above the age of 50, with some consideration given to the education as well as the previous types of work experience of the applicant, the maximum amount of RFC or Residual Functional Capacity that is allowed is increased in order to include sedentary work, light work and medium work.

Although this is not the only consideration when it comes to SSDI application approval, it is something that needs to be considered when applying. Understanding how Residual Functional Capacity works is an important part of understanding the requirements set by the Social Security Administration for being able to work in a Substantial Gainful Activity or SGA. If you are considered to be able to work in a substantial gainful activity allowing you to make enough income to meet the minimum requirement, then the Social Security Administration will not approve your disability application.