Functional Capacity Evaluation: FCE Tests for Disability
Author: Disability Attorneys Dell & Schaefer
Published: 2010/09/24 - Updated: 2026/01/11
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Claims - Related Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This information provides practical guidance on Functional Capacity Evaluations written by disability attorneys Dell & Schaefer, making it particularly authoritative for individuals navigating disability insurance claims. The article explains how FCE testing measures a person's physical abilities against established Department of Labor occupational standards, which directly impacts whether someone qualifies for disability benefits. People with disabilities and those pursuing claims will find this resource valuable because it addresses both the potential benefits and risks of undergoing these evaluations, offers strategic considerations before attending an FCE, and clarifies why insurance companies may challenge previous test results. The straightforward explanation helps claimants make informed decisions about their participation in these assessments - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Many disability claimants ask what is a Functional Capacity Evaluation is and how will attending an FCE affect my claim for disability benefits?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (also known as a Functional Capacity Exam or FCE) is a battery of tests that you will be put through to see what your physical capabilities are with regard to work. The results of the FCE are normally weighed against the Department of Labor and the dictionary definition of occupational title standards of sedentary, light, medium and heavy.
Main Content
Attending an FCE can be a double-edge sword for a claimant.
The results may indicate that there's nothing wrong with you or, on the flip-side, may say that this person can't even work at a sedentary level. There are as many ways of having an FCE performed as there are different types of functional capacity evaluations.
What if you have previously undergone a functional capacity evaluation?
Insurance companies are always very quick to try to point out that the FCE you previously attended was insufficient, it was unreliable and that the functional capacity evaluation that they would have you attend with a doctor of their choosing, is superior.
A Functional capacity evaluation can yield beneficial evidence of a disability, but at the same time they can also hurt your disability claim.
Like statistics, the results of an FCE can be interpreted in various ways, so it's very important to know all of your options before attending a functional capacity evaluation.
If you have any questions concerning functional capacity exams, if your disability insurance company or treating doctor wants to send you to one, or you have a question about your own disability claim, please contact Attorneys Dell & Schaefer and we can discuss what your options are, what your possibilities are, and what you might be able to expect.