All the rationale elements described in DI 26515.001, DI 27020.001, and DI 28090.001. must be documented in all wholly unfavorable or partially favorable childhood disability determinations. A full rationale is not required in fully favorable determinations.

Most rationales are completed on an SSA-4268-U4/C4. However, if the SSA-538 (Childhood Disability Evaluation Form - see DI 25230.001) includes all the required rationale elements, it is not necessary to complete an SSA-4268-U4/C4.

If the SSA-538 does not contain all the required rationale elements and an SSA-4268-U4/C4 must be completed, the findings in the SSA-538 may be incorporated by reference in the SSA-4268-U4/C4.

Descriptions of the rationale elements required in initial, reconsideration, and continuing disability review cases:

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  DI 26515.001, Overview of the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program

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  DI 27020.001, The Reconsideration Rationale

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  DI 28090.001, Cessation or Continuance of Disability or Blindness Determination and Transmittal (SSA-832/833) Rationale

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  DI 25230.001, Instructions on use of the SSA-538.

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  DI 25230.020, Exhibit of form SSA-538.