In short: This guide explains what is a third party function report in plain English, using current 2026 SSA figures and the official rules — so you can understand what is a third party function report and decide what to do next.
What is a third party function report, and why is Social Security asking someone you know to fill one out? If you applied for disability benefits, a friend or family member may get a form in the mail. It asks them how your health affects your daily life. This can feel strange or even worrying.
However, it is a normal part of many claims. It does not mean anything is wrong. This guide explains what is a third party function report in plain English. We cover who fills it out, what it asks, when it is due, and how it can help your claim.
So, what is a third party function report?
Simply put, it is a form called the “Function Report – Adult – Third Party.” Its official number is SSA-3380-BK. Someone who knows you well fills it out. They describe what your days look like now and what you can no longer do.
The form usually comes from Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS is the state agency that makes the first medical decision for the Social Security Administration (SSA). You will likely get your own version too, called the SSA-3373 Adult Function Report. The two forms ask many of the same questions.
Why does the SSA want this? Medical records show diagnoses and test results. However, they often miss how you actually live. For example, a chart may say “back pain” but not that you need help putting on socks. A third party report fills that gap. As a result, it helps DDS judge your residual functional capacity (RFC). Your RFC is the most you can still do despite your limits.
It also works alongside other evidence. DDS checks your records against the Blue Book, which is the SSA’s official Listing of Impairments. DDS may also send you to a consultative examination (CE). A CE is a short exam with a doctor the SSA pays for. Knowing what is a third party function report adds to this helps you see why it matters.
Who answers what is a third party function report asking, and key numbers
Many people wonder who should answer it. The helper does not need to be a relative. It can be a spouse, adult child, friend, neighbor, former coworker, or caregiver. The best choice is someone who sees you often. They should know how your life has changed since you got sick or hurt.
The form covers daily life in detail. It asks about personal care, like bathing, dressing, and eating. It asks about cooking, chores, shopping, and handling money. It also asks about hobbies, social life, and getting along with others. Finally, it asks about lifting, standing, walking, sitting, remembering, and focusing. The helper checks boxes and writes short explanations.
Usually, DDS asks for the form back within about 10 days. If your helper needs more time, call the DDS examiner named on the letter. In most cases, they will allow a short extension. The figures below show the bigger picture of your claim.
| Item | 2026 Figure |
|---|---|
| SGA earnings limit (non-blind / blind) | $1,690 / $2,830 per month |
| Average SSDI payment (maximum) | About $1,630 per month ($4,152) |
| SSI federal benefit rate (individual) | $994 per month |
| SSDI waiting period / back pay | 5 months / up to 12 months before you applied |
| Medicare start / appeal deadline | 24 months after SSDI entitlement / 60 days from denial |
SSDI means Social Security Disability Insurance. SSI means Supplemental Security Income. SGA, or substantial gainful activity, is the monthly earnings limit for most claimants. These federal figures change every January. Always confirm the current figure with the SSA. Any estimate here is only an example, and every case is different.
Getting it right: what is a third party function report looking for?
If you are still asking what is a third party function report looking for, the answer is honest, specific detail. DDS wants a real picture of both your typical days and your worst days. For example, “My mom can’t cook” says very little. “My mom stopped cooking in March because her hands shake and she forgets the stove” says much more.
Here are some claimant-first tips to share with your helper:
- Pick someone who sees you at least a few times a week.
- Describe changes: what you did before, and what you do now.
- Include the help they give, like rides, reminders, meals, or dressing.
- Mention bad days, naps, pain, side effects, and how long tasks take.
- Keep a copy before mailing the form back.
Honesty matters most. The helper signs the form, and false statements can bring legal penalties. Also, answers that go far beyond your medical records can hurt trust in your claim. In most cases, it is fine to talk it over together. However, the helper should write what they have seen with their own eyes.
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Try to keep both reports consistent. If your SSA-3373 says you walk a mile, and your helper says you cannot walk a block, DDS may notice. As a result, it helps to be accurate on both forms. Once you understand what is a third party function report meant to show, being consistent feels natural.
If you are denied, please do not lose heart. Many claimants are denied at first and win later. You have 60 days from the denial notice to appeal. A new third party statement can be sent with your appeal. It can also be used before a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). A representative’s fee is the lesser of 25% of past-due benefits or $9,200. There is no fee if you do not win. Confirm your options with the SSA and a licensed attorney or accredited representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
So, what is a third party function report, and do I have to return it?
It is SSA form SSA-3380-BK, where someone who knows you describes your daily limits. It is usually not strictly required. However, if it is not returned, DDS will decide using only the other evidence it has. In most cases, returning it gives a fuller and fairer picture.
Can my spouse or caregiver fill out the form?
Yes. A spouse, caregiver, adult child, friend, or neighbor can usually complete it. For example, a caregiver who helps you every day often gives the clearest details. The best helper is someone who sees your limits often.
Can a third party report alone win my claim?
Usually, no. Medical evidence is the main thing the SSA generally requires. However, a strong report can support your records and explain your real limits. Every case is different, so no single form can guarantee an outcome.
Key point: When people ask about what is a third party function report, the honest answer depends on your own situation — this guide on what is a third party function report walks through what the SSA actually looks at.
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Sources & How to Verify
The figures and rules in this guide on what is a third party function report come from official government sources. Social Security figures, deadlines, and rules change — the federal amounts reset every January — so always confirm the current figure with the SSA:
- Social Security Administration: ssa.gov — the first and most authoritative source on SSDI and SSI.
- SSA Blue Book (Listing of Impairments): ssa.gov Blue Book — the medical criteria SSA uses.
- U.S. Department of Labor: dol.gov — disability and benefit resources.
- USA.gov: usa.gov — a plain-language gateway to federal benefits.
- National Council on Aging: ncoa.org — benefits help for older adults.
Verified September 2026. SSA figures change every January; if you spot anything outdated, please contact us.
Related What Is A Third Party Function Report Guides
More guides related to what is a third party function report:
- How to Apply for Disability, Step by Step
- Do You Qualify for Disability? Free 5-Step Check
- Approval Chances & Wait Time by State
- Disability Back-Pay Estimator
- Denied? What to Do Next
Disclaimer. This page is for general information only and is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Disability Claim Info is an independent educational resource — we are not the Social Security Administration, a law firm, or a medical provider. SSDI and SSI rules and dollar figures change, and any estimate is an illustration, not a prediction. For your situation, confirm your eligibility and any deadline with the Social Security Administration and a licensed attorney or accredited representative before you act.