An ALJ will sometimes use a Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score to deny benefits in mental health cases. However, the Social Security Administration does not rely upon GAF scores and they do not indicate particular limitations. The Federal Register explains why the Commissioner did not include GAF scores in Section 12.00D of the Listing of Impairments (The Listings), (56 FR at 33132): We did not mention the GAF scale to endorse its use in the Social Security and SSI disability programs,…It does not have a direct correlation to the severity requirements in our mental disorders listings. 65 Fed. Reg 50746-01, 50764-65. Copyright 2013. Glen Cook www.cooklaw.org
The use of Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) Scores in Social Security Hearings
by Glen Cook on Jul. 24, 2013
Summary
Mental health professionals will use Global Assessment of Functioning Scores as an estimate of severity in diagnoses. Administrative Law judges will use these scores to deny benefits. However, the Social Security Administration does not rely on these scores
