Steps 4 and 5 of the Sequential Evaluation Process

The Social Security Administration uses a five-step process to evaluate adult disability claims. If a claim is not approved or denied during the first three steps, Social Security considers the applicant’s ability to work during Steps 4 and 5.

These steps focus on whether the applicant can return to relevant past work or adjust to another type of work.

Understanding Residual Functional Capacity

Before considering Steps 4 and 5, Social Security assesses the applicant’s residual functional capacity, commonly called RFC.

An RFC describes the work-related physical and mental activities a person can still perform despite limitations caused by medically determinable impairments. Depending on the individual, Social Security may consider limitations involving:

  • Sitting, standing and walking
  • Lifting and carrying
  • Reaching, handling and using the hands
  • Following instructions and maintaining concentration
  • Interacting with supervisors, coworkers and the public
  • Adjusting to workplace changes
  • Maintaining regular attendance and an appropriate work pace

The RFC assessment is based on the complete record, including medical evidence, treatment history, reported symptoms and other relevant information.

Step 4: Can You Perform Your Past Relevant Work?

At Step 4, Social Security determines whether the applicant can perform past relevant work. Past relevant work generally includes qualifying work performed within the applicable five-year period that reached the level of substantial gainful activity and lasted long enough for the applicant to learn the job.

Social Security compares the applicant’s RFC with the physical and mental demands of past work. It may consider the job as the applicant actually performed it and as that occupation is generally performed in the national economy.

Important details about past employment may include:

  • Job titles and primary duties
  • Dates worked
  • Hours worked each day or week
  • Lifting and carrying requirements
  • Time spent sitting, standing or walking
  • Equipment, tools or machinery used
  • Supervisory duties
  • Skills learned on the job
  • Mental and interpersonal demands

If Social Security determines that the applicant can still perform qualifying past work, the claim may be denied at Step 4. If the applicant cannot perform that work, the evaluation generally proceeds to Step 5.

Step 5: Can You Adjust to Other Work?

At Step 5, Social Security considers whether the applicant can adjust to other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy.

The evaluation may consider the applicant’s:

  • Residual functional capacity
  • Age
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Transferable job skills
  • Physical and mental limitations

Social Security does not decide whether a particular employer will hire the applicant or whether a specific job opening exists nearby. The question is whether other work exists in the national economy that a person with the applicant’s vocational profile and limitations could perform.

If Social Security determines that the applicant can adjust to other qualifying work, the claim may be denied. If the applicant cannot perform past relevant work or adjust to other work, Social Security may find the applicant disabled.

Why a Detailed Work History Matters

Incomplete or inaccurate work information can make it difficult to properly evaluate a disability claim. Applicants should provide a detailed description of their former job duties rather than relying only on job titles.

For example, two people with the same job title may have performed very different physical or mental tasks. Explaining how the work was actually performed can help Social Security compare the job’s demands with the applicant’s current limitations.

Medical Evidence and Functional Limitations

A diagnosis alone does not establish that a person is unable to work. Medical records and other evidence should help explain how the condition limits work-related activities.

Relevant evidence may include:

  • Treatment notes
  • Medical test results
  • Medication history and side effects
  • Statements describing physical or mental limitations
  • Information about symptoms and daily activities
  • Records showing the duration and progression of the condition

Clear and consistent evidence can help Social Security understand why an applicant may be unable to return to past work or adjust to another occupation.

Learn More About Your Disability Claim

Steps 4 and 5 can involve detailed medical and vocational questions. If you are applying for benefits, appealing a denial or preparing for a disability hearing, consider learning more about how your work history and functional limitations may affect the evaluation.

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