Opinion ID: 170153
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Grids

Text: We next consider whether the Appeals Council correctly applied the grids, see 20 C.F.R. § 404, subpt. P, App. 2, to find Mr. Shivel non-disabled prior to August 1, 2001. “[T]he grids cannot be applied conclusively if a claimant has nonexertional limitations that significantly limit his ability to perform the full range of work in a particular RFC category on a sustained basis.” Williams, 844 F.2d at 752 (quotation omitted). The grids may be applied, however, if a claimant’s nonexertional limitations do not further limit his ability to perform work at the applicable exertional level. Eggleston v. Bowen, 851 F.2d 1244, 1247 (10th Cir. 1988). Here, if a proper evaluation of Mr. Shivel’s mental impairments reveals nonexertional limitations that impacted his functionality during the relevant time period, the grids may not be applied conclusively.