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SSA RIN: 0960-AI96 Publication ID: Spring 2025 
Title: ●Rescission of the Extension of the Flexibility in Evaluating "Close Proximity of Time" to Evaluate Changes in Healthcare  
Abstract:

We are rescinding the flexibility in the "close proximity of time” standard, in our musculoskeletal disorder listings (listings). Our listings require a disability claimant to show all necessary criteria was present simultaneously or within a close proximity of time. Our regulations clarified a "close proximity of time” means within a 4-month period. We provided flexibility to meet this standard because the COVID-19 national public health emergency (PHE) caused barriers for some individuals to timely access healthcare and we further extended this flexibility until May 11, 2029. 

We would revert to the original 4-month standard. The original standard was based on quantitative evidence which has not been supplanted by stronger or more recent evidence.

 
Agency: Social Security Administration(SSA)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: First time published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
EO 14192 Designation: Other 
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined     (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
Final Action  03/00/2026 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Small Entities Affected: No  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Agency Contact:
Michael J. Goldstein
Director
Social Security Administration
Office of Disability Policy, 6401 Security Boulevard,
Baltimore, MD 21235-6401
Phone:410 965-1020
Email: michael.j.goldstein@ssa.gov