Social Security Ruling (SSR) 95-5p. Titles II and XVI: Considering Allegations of Pain and Other Symptoms in Residual Functional Capacity and Individualized Functional Assessments and Explaining Conclusions Reached

In accordance with 20 CFR 422.406(b)(1), the Commissioner of Social Security gives notice of Social Security Ruling 95-5p. This Policy Interpretation Ruling restates and clarifies that our longstanding policies of considering allegations of pain in assessing residual functional capacity (RFC) and of requiring explanations of the conclusions reached about pain, apply to the evaluation of all symptoms, not just pain. The Ruling also restates and clarifies that these policies apply to the preparation of the individualized functional assessment in the evaluation of disability for individuals under age 18 claiming benefits under Title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act (the Act) as well as to the assessment of RFC for other persons claiming benefits based on disability under Title II (Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Benefits) or title XVI of the Act, and that an explanation of the functional impact of symptoms, such as pain, when applicable, is required. This Ruling supersedes SSR 88-13 (C.E. 1988, p. 90) and SSR 90-1p (C.E. 1990-1991, p. 67), both entitled ``Titles II and XVI: Evaluation of Pain and Other Symptoms.''