John F. Masterson, Jr. v. Jo Anne B. Barnhart, Comm'r of Soc. Sec., 309 F.3d 267 (5th Cir. 2002). · Go Syfert
John F. Masterson, Jr. v. Jo Anne B. Barnhart, Comm'r of Soc. Sec., 309 F.3d 267 (5th Cir. 2002). Cases Citing This Book View Copy Cite
610 citation events (610 in the last 25 years) across 11 distinct courts.
Strongest positive: Villegas v. Commissioner of Social Security (txwd, 2025-09-22)
Treatment trajectory · 2003 → 2026 · click a year to view as-of
2003 2014 2026
Top citers, strongest first. 50 distinct citers. How cited ↗
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Villegas v. Commissioner of Social Security
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) De La O v. King
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Hicks v. Commissioner, SSA (2×) also: Cited as authority (rule)
5th Cir. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
we will not re-weigh the evidence, try the questions de novo, or substitute our judgment for the commissioner's, even if we believe the evidence weighs against the commissioner's decision.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Ramirez v. Commissioner of Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Martinez v. O'Malley, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Venegas v. Commissioner of Social Security
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Venegas v. Commissioner of Social Security
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Thompson v. SSA
5th Cir. · 2024 · signal: see · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
we will not re-weigh the evidence, try the questions de novo, or substitute our judgment for the commissioner's . . .
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Montez v. Commissioner of Social Security
W.D. Tex. · 2023 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) ACOSTA v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2023 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the alj's decision thus became the commissioner's final and official decision when the appeals council denied request for review on the merits.
examined Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Brewster v. Saul (4×) also: Cited as authority (rule), Cited "see"
W.D. Tex. · 2021 · signal: see · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
onflicts in the evidence are for the commissioner and not the courts to resolve.
examined Cited as authority (quoted) Tammy Fabian v. Nancy Berryhill, Acting Cmsnr (3×) also: Cited as authority (rule)
5th Cir. · 2018 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence low
we affirm the commissioner's findings whenever supported by substantial evidence.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Preston Lee v. Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of Social Security Administration
E.D. La. · 2026 · confidence medium
Halterman v. Colvin, 544 F. App’x 358, 360 (5th Cir. 2013) (citing Newton, 209 F.3d at 452 ). 13 Ripley v. Chater, 67 F.3d 552, 555 (5th Cir. 1995) (citing § 405(g)). 14 Chrisner v. Astrue, 249 F. App’x 354, 356 (5th Cir. 2007) (quoting Wren v. Sullivan, 925 F.2d 123, 126 (5th Cir. 1991)); Perez, 415 F.3d at 462 (citation omitted). 15 Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (citations omitted). 16 Giles v. Astrue, 433 F. App’x 241, 249 (5th Cir. 2011) (citing Clari v. Barnhart, 214 F. App’x 479 (5th Cir. 2007) (“The ALJ is not required to mechanically follow every g…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Cook v. SSA
5th Cir. · 2026 · confidence medium
Under that standard, “[w]e will not reweigh the evidence, try the questions de novo, or substitute our judgment for the [Social Security] Commissioner’s, even if we believe the evidence weighs against the Commissioner’s decision.” Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (citation omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jessica Ponce, AKA: Jessica Facundo v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520 ; Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 453 (5th Cir. 2000)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jacqueline Cheryl Newton Green v. Martin O'Malley, et al. (2×)
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.P.R. § 404.1520). #23 at 3-9, Plaintiff contends the ALJ erroneously relied on neurological findings—specifically, heel-to-knee-to-shin and finger-to-nose tests—that assess cerebellar function rather than knee limitations. fe, at 7-8.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Charika Toomer v. Martin O'Malley (2×)
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v, Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (Sth Cir, 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Tyke Fontenot v. Commissioner of Social Security
M.D. La. · 2026 · confidence medium
Richardson v. Perales, 402 U.S. 389, 401 (1971); Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jimmy A. v. Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Substantial evidence has also been defined as “more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.” Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (quoting Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 452 (5th Cir. 2000)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Felipe C. v. Frank Bisignano (2×)
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 6 At the administrative hearing, Plaintiff’s onset date was amended to the same as his application date, August 27, 2021.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jacqueline C. N.G v. Frank Bisignano
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 At Step Two, the ALJ found Plaintiff has the following severe impairments: “history of cerebral vascular accident (CVA), left homonymous hemianopsia, diabetes mellitus, and major depressive disorder (MDD) (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).” (Id.).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Rodney Paul F. Sr. v. Frank Bisignano
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 following severe impairments: “morbid obesity; degenerative disc disease, lumbar spine; osteoarthritis, bilateral knees; diabetes mellitus; sleep apnea; migraine headaches; post-traumatic stress disorder; major depression; adjustment disorder; anxiety; alcohol abuse (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).” (Id.).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Ivan Andres B.G. v. Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Substantial evidence has also been defined as “more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.” Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (quoting Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 452 (5th Cir. 2000)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Laretta L. B. v. Frank Bisignano
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 impairments: “obesity; degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine; degenerative changes of the right ankle; osteoarthritis and arthralgias of the knees; ventral hernia; irritable bowel syndrome; bipolar disorder; depressive disorder; generalized anxiety disorder; and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (20 CFR 416.920(c)).” (Id. at 22–23).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Rendell H. v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2026 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 452 (5th Cir. 2000)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Kimberly R. v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 impairments: “morbid obesity; spinal fusion; Ehlers-Danlos syndrome; anxiety; and depression (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).” (Id. at 27).
cited Cited as authority (rule) HERNANDEZ v. O'Malley, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Montalbano v. Commissioner of Social Security
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Burns v. Colvin (2×)
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Robinson v. O'Malley (2×) also: Cited "see"
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Madkins v. Bisignano
5th Cir. · 2025 · confidence medium
II “We review the Commissioner’s denial of social security benefits ‘only to ascertain whether (1) the final decision is supported by substantial evidence and (2) whether the Commissioner used the proper legal standards to evaluate the evidence.’” 1 “Substantial evidence is merely enough that a _____________________ 1 Keel v. Saul, 986 F.3d 551, 555 (5th Cir. 2021) (quoting Whitehead v. Colvin, 820 F.3d 776, 779 (5th Cir. 2016)). 3 Case: 24-60485 Document: 54-1 Page: 4 Date Filed: 09/03/2025 No. 24-60485 reasonable mind could arrive at the same decision; though the evidence ‘must…
cited Cited as authority (rule) Macias v. O'Malley, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Allen v. O'Malley
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 application date.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Miller v. Commissioner of Social Security
M.D. La. · 2025 · confidence medium
Tex. June 7, 2016)). 23 Greenspan v. Shalala, 38 F.3d 232, 236 (5th Cir. 1994); Carey v. Apfel, 230 F.3d 131, 135 (5th Cir. 2000). 24 Boyd v. Apfel, 239 F.3d 698, 704 (5th Cir. 2001), quoting Harris v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 413, 417 (5th Cir. 2000). 25 Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002); Selders v. Sullivan, 914 F.2d 614, 617 (5th Cir. 1990). 26 Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 452 (5th Cir. 2000). 27 Bruno, M, citing Bradley v. Bowen, 809 F.2d 1054, 1057 (5th Cir. 1987) and Western v. Harris, 633 F.2d 1204, 1206 (5th Cir. 1981).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Short v. Commissioner of Social Security
N.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Substantial evidence is “more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.” Jd. (quoting Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (Sth Cir. 2002)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Gonzalez v. Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (2×)
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (Sth Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Brown v. Commissioner, SSA
5th Cir. · 2025 · confidence medium
Edison Co. v. NLRB, 305 U.S. 197, 229 (1938)). 6 Garcia, 880 F.3d at 704 (quoting Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002)). 7 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 (a)(4) (2023) (five-step sequential process for disability insurance benefits); id. § 416.920(a)(4) (parallel regulation for supplemental security income). 8 Barnhart v. Thomas, 540 U.S. 20, 24 (2003). 9 Webster, 19 F.4th at 718 . 10 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1560 (b)(1) (2023) (amended 2024), 416.960(b)(1) (2023) (amended 2024). 11 Id. §§ 404.1572, 416.972. 3 Case: 24-11068 Document: 33-1 Page: 4 Date Filed: 06/17/2025 No. 24-11068 ma…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Bosley v. Kijakazi
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Substantial evidence has also been defined as “more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.” Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002) (quoting Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 452 (5th Cir. 2000)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Bruno v. O'Malley
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 2 psychosis, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post that [sic] traumatic stress disorder.” (Id.).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Vasquez v. O'Malley
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
“The relevant law and regulations governing the determination of disability under a claim for disability insurance benefits are identical to those governing the determination under a claim for supplemental security income.” Davis v. Heckler, 759 F.2d 432 , 435 n.1 (5th Cir. 1985). 8 Taylor, 706 F.3d at 602 (internal quotation marks omitted). 9 Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002). 10 Whitehead v. Colvin, 820 F.3d 776, 779 (5th Cir. 2016) (per curiam) (internal quotation marks omitted). 11 See Ripley, 67 F.3d at 557 ; 20 C.F.R. § 416.913 (a) (describing the categories o…
cited Cited as authority (rule) Whitmire v. Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 3 (Id. at 28).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Byars v. Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
This Court cannot substitute its judgment for that of the ALJ, even if it were to “believe the evidence weighs against the Commissioner’s decision.” See Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 272 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Young v. Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 3 (and tear), hypertension, hyperlipidemia, vitamin D deficiency, post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”), anxiety disorder, and depressive disorder (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Brady v. Social Security Administration
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 3 perform—such as packer, assembler, laundry folder—and therefore Plaintiff was not disabled as defined under the Social Security Act.
cited Cited as authority (rule) Weinmeister v. Kijakazi
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 3 consultant—and therefore Plaintiff was not disabled as defined under the Social Security Act.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Garcia Andre v. Kijakazi <font color=\red\">DO NOT DOCKET. CASE HAS BEEN REMANDED.</font>"
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Masterson v. Barnhart, 309 F.3d 267, 271 (5th Cir. 2002) (citing 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 ). 3 disease of the lumbar, cervical, and thoracic spine, osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome of the right hand, sleep apnea, left shoulder disorder, varicose veins, and anxiety/posttraumatic stress disorder (20 CFR 404.1520(c) and 416.920(c)).” (Id.).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) TARANGO v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Judicial review of the Commissioner’s decision is limited to two inquiries: (1) whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole; and (2) whether the Commissioner applied the proper legal standard.7 Substantial evidence “is more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.”8 The Commissioner’s findings will be upheld if supported by substantial evidence.9 In evaluating a disability claim, the Commissioner must follow a five- step sequential process to determine whether: (1) the claimant is presently working; (2) the claimant has a severe medica…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) GARCIA v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Judicial review of the Commissioner’s decision is limited to two inquiries: (1) whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole; and (2) whether the Commissioner applied the proper legal standard.7 Substantial evidence “is more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.”8 The Commissioner’s findings will be upheld if supported by substantial evidence.9 In evaluating a disability claim, the Commissioner must follow a five- step sequential process to determine whether: (1) the claimant is presently working; (2) the claimant has a severe medica…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Richard Juarez v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Judicial review of the Commissioner’s decision is limited to two inquiries: (1) whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole; and (2) whether the Commissioner applied the proper legal standard.7 Substantial evidence “is more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.”8 The Commissioner’s findings will be upheld if supported by substantial evidence.9 In evaluating a disability claim, the Commissioner must follow a five- step sequential process to determine whether: (1) the claimant is presently working; (2) the claimant has a severe medica…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Betancourt v. Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Judicial review of the Commissioner’s decision is limited to two inquiries: (1) whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole; and (2) whether the Commissioner applied the proper legal standard.7 Substantial evidence “is more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.”8 The Commissioner’s findings will be upheld if supported by substantial evidence.9 In evaluating a disability claim, the Commissioner must follow a five- step sequential process to determine whether: (1) the claimant is presently working; (2) the claimant has a severe medica…
Retrieving the full opinion text from the archive…
John F. MASTERSON, Jr., Plaintiff-Appellant,
v.
Jo Anne B. BARNHART, Commissioner of Social Security, Defendant-Appellee
01-51137.
Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Sep 4, 2002.
309 F.3d 267
Mary Ellen Felps, Austin, TX, for Plaintiff-Appellant., Roberta Gene Bowie, Social Security Administration, Office of General Counsel, Dallas, TX, Raymond A. Nowak, San Antonio, TX, for Defendanb-Appellee.
Davis, Smith, Benavides.
Cited by 263 opinions  |  Published
1 passage pin-cited by 1 case
Pinpoint authority: bottom 83%
Citer courts: Fifth Circuit (1)
JERRY E. SMITH, Circuit Judge:

John Masterson appeals a judgment entered by the magistrate judge, sitting by consent of the parties (hereinafter the “district court” or the “court”), affirming the Social Security Commissioner’s decision to deny his application for disability benefits. Concluding that substantial evidence supports the administrative law judge’s (“ALJ’s”) denial of benefits, we affirm.

I.

Masterson, an accountant by training, applied for Social Security disability benefits in 1994, claiming he had suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”) since 1993 because of his combat service in Vietnam. Masterson contended that[*269] PTSD contributed to an inability to work with others, fear of the future, and intrusive thoughts. Despite these alleged symptoms, he acknowledged that he still could perform everyday tasks and tend to his personal needs.

After Masterson’s application was denied initially and on reconsideration, he requested a de novo hearing before an ALJ, who considered Masterson’s medical history and potential evidence of PTSD. Medical records from the Veteran’s Administration (“VA”) indicate that Master-son had complained of depression and PTSD in 1991. The treating physician, however, ruled out PTSD and diagnosed dysthymia. Masterson then began psychotherapy. In December 1991, a VA physician reported that Masterson had some PTSD symptoms and prescribed anti-depressant medication.

Masterson was first diagnosed with PTSD in October 1992. The diagnosing psychotherapist also established a working diagnosis of alcohol dependence by history, and a probable personality disorder, not otherwise specified, with dependent, self-defeating features. In November 1992, the psychotherapist identified the working diagnoses as PTSD, dysthymia, and alcohol dependence in remission.

In April 1994, the VA provided a “Rating Decision” that Masterson was unemployable and entitled to individual unem-ployability benefits. The Rating Decision stated that Masterson was depressed and anxious, that the VA examiner found him moderately to severely impaired in his occupational functioning, and that he had service-connected disabilities for shell fragment wounds to the left chest and left arm. [1] VA medical records also indicate that Masterson had sleep apnea, which was well controlled with medication and a breathing apparatus.

In January 1995, Dr. George Robison performed a consultative medical examination at the request of the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. Masterson reported that he had back pain, but no radiation, and that he did not find the pain limiting. Robison reported Masterson’s past medical history of PTSD and noted that Master-son’s hearing, emotional affect, and gross mental status were normal.

Also in January 1995, Dr. Stuart Nemir, Jr., performed a consultative psychological examination requested by the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. Masterson reported to Nemir that he was active in Alcoholics Anonymous, that he had a good relationship with his four sons, and that his daily activities included preparing meals for himself and his son, driving his son to school, doing household chores, visiting with acquaintances on the phone, working with the computer, engaging in leisure activities, and keeping up with current events through television and the newspaper. Nemir observed that Master-son was alert and his affect was appropriate; he saw no signs of depression or thought disorder.

Nemir diagnosed personality disorder, not otherwise specified, and sleep disorder. Nemir concluded that if Masterson “has PTSD, it certainly is atypical” and that “[w]ith this man’s educational background and talent together with his intelligence, I think the prognosis for him is fair to good.”

In June 1995, Robert O’Brien, Ph.D., another VA psychotherapist, reported that Masterson continued to experience recurrent combat memories and nightmares and[*270] demonstrated markedly diminished interest and participation in significant activities. O’Brien opined that Masterson had moderate problems in performing activities of daily living, moderate difficulty in maintaining social functioning, and frequent problems with concentration, persistence, and pace that resulted in a failure to complete tasks in a timely manner. O’Brien also indicated that Masterson often failed to start even simple tasks, such as returning phone calls. He assessed chronic PTSD secondary to combat service and wounding in Vietnam, dysthymia secondary to PTSD, guilt, and sense of failure.

The ALJ also heard testimony at the hearing in June 1996 from Masterson, a medical expert, and a vocational expert. Masterson testified that he was forty-seven years old with a masters degree in accounting. He said he had difficulty sleeping, headaches, high frequency hearing loss, skin problems, sleep apnea, polyps on his colon, and depression. He identified an inability to concentrate as the main reason he could not work. He stated that he occasionally experienced chest pain, which medication resolved within one minute.

Masterson also testified that at his last job, he had threatened to assault two persons who had said something about the men who died in Vietnam being losers. He stated that he had begun to hurt people years ago but had been able to stop and that he had not assaulted anyone since 1982. He said, however, that he recently had hit his twenty-one-year-old son in the side of his head but did not injure him.

Masterson stated that he did laundry once a month, went grocery shopping late, watched television, occasionally watched movies with his son, read, played solitaire on the computer, and attended Alcoholic Anonymous meetings, after which he often would join others for a meal. He attended therapy and lunched weekly with four friends, who were also combat veterans.

Dr. Joe Berry, a psychiatrist with forty-two years of experience, testified as a medical expert and noted that the medical records showed diagnoses of PTSD, alcohol dependency, dysthymia, and a personality disorder. Berry stated that Master-son’s testimony did not sustain a diagnosis of PTSD. He also testified that, based on the medical evidence, Masterson had slight restrictions on daily activities, slight to moderate difficulties in social functioning, and seldom to often-experienced deficiencies of concentration. On cross-examination, Berry testified that, based on Master-son’s testimony, Masterson would have moderate to marked restrictions of daily activities and moderate to marked difficulties in maintaining social functioning, and he often would experience deficiencies in concentration.

Dr. Robert Marion, Professor of Special Education and Rehabilitation at the University of Texas at Austin, testified as a vocational expert and opined that Master-son had skills transferrable to sedentary and light jobs, given his education and age. Marion also said that sedentary and light jobs not requiring much interaction with the public existed in significant numbers in the national economy.

Marion identified several sedentary jobs that Masterson could perform without exposure to stressful situations and with less public interaction than his previous accounting jobs required: assembly worker, order clerk, appointment clerk, and security officer. Marion also identified several suitable non-stressful light jobs: mail clerk, general office clerk-gopher, and assembly worker. Marion testified, however, that Masterson could not perform any of these jobs if he lost his concentration[*271] fifty percent of the time, as Masterson had testified he did.

The ALJ denied Masterson’s application for benefits and made eight main determinations: (1) that Masterson had not had substantial gainful activity since March 31, 1993; (2) that Masterson suffered from obstructive sleep apnea and personality disorder but did not have an impairment or combination of impairments that met or equaled the severity of an impairment listed in 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart B, Appendix 1.; (3) that Masterson was not disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act; (4) that Masterson’s allegations of disabling symptoms were not fully credible; (5) that the medical evidence did not support the YA’s PTSD diagnosis; (6) that Masterson had the residual functional capacity to perform sedentary and light work not involving exposure to stressful situations or dealing with the public; (7) that Masterson had skills transferrable to sedentary and light work; and (8) that Masterson was able to perform work existing in significant numbers in the national economy.

The Appeals Council denied Masterson’s request to review the ALJ’s decision on the merits. The Council reviewed the evidence presented to the ALJ, as well as new evidence submitted by Masterson, namely, a report by Dr. Kevin McFarley dated September 22,1997.

McFarley reported that Masterson was currently functioning at the “Very Superi- or (Mentally Gifted)” range of overall intellectual ability. Although Masterson did not indicate any significant area of cognitive or intellectual deficit, McFarley stated that Masterson could not engage in productive work because of his ruminations, psychological problems, and severe interpersonal problems. McFarley diagnosed PTSD and recurrent, moderate major depressive disorder. McFarley also stated that Masterson was not malingering and that he was “currently completely disabled by the psychological and emotional effects of his combat experience.”

The Appeals Council concluded that McFarley’s report did not justify a review of the ALJ’s decision on the merits, much less a reversal of the ALJ’s decision. The ALJ’s decision thus became the Commissioner’s final and official decision when the Appeals Council denied Masterson’s request for review on the merits. Masterson sought judicial review of the ALJ’s decision in the district court on February 15, 2000.

II.

A.

A claimant bears the burden of proving that he suffers from a disability, which the Social Security Act defines as a medically determinable physical or mental impairment lasting at least twelve months that prevents the claimant from engaging in substantial gainful activity. 42 U.S.C. § 423(d)(1)(A); Newton, 209 F.3d at 452. [2] The Commissioner follows a five-step sequence to evaluate claims of disability: whether (1) the claimant is currently engaged in substantial gainful activity, (2) he has a severe impairment, (3) the impairment meets or equals the severity of a listed impairment in Appendix 1 of the regulations, (4) the impairment prevents the claimant from performing past relevant work, and (5) the impairment prevents him from doing any other work. 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520; Newton v. Apfel, 209 F.3d 448, 453 (5th Cir.2000).

[*272] If the claimant satisfies the first four steps with sufficient proof, the burden of proof shifts to the Commissioner to show that the claimant can perform other substantial work in the national economy. Newton, 209 F.3d at 453; Chaparro v. Bowen, 815 F.2d 1008, 1010 (5th Cir.1987). The burden of proof then returns to the claimant to rebut the Commissioner’s showing. Chaparro, 815 F.2d at 1010. A finding that the claimant is not disabled at any step is conclusive and ends the inquiry. Greenspan v. Shalala, 38 F.3d 232, 235 (5th Cir.1994).

B.

We review the denial of benefits only to ascertain whether substantial evidence supports the final decision and whether the Commissioner used the proper legal standards to evaluate the evidence. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); Newton, 209 F.3d at 452; Brown v. Apfel, 192 F.3d 492, 496 (5th Cir.1999). We affirm the Commissioner’s findings whenever supported by substantial evidence. Martinez v. Chater, 64 F.3d 172, 173. Substantial evidence “is more than a mere scintilla and less than a preponderance.” Newton, 209 F.3d at 452 (citations omitted). We will not re-weigh the evidence, try the questions de novo, or substitute our judgment for the Commissioner’s, even if we believe the evidence weighs against the Commissioner’s decision. Id. at 452. In short, “[c]onfliets in the evidence are for the Commissioner and not the courts to resolve.” Id. (citations and internal alterations omitted).

C.

Masterson challenges the ALJ’s three main factual findings. According to Mas-terson, substantial evidence does not support the ALJ’s findings that Masterson does not suffer from PTSD, that he is not otherwise disabled, and that he had the residual functional capacity to perform sedentary and light work not involving exposure to stressful situations or dealing with the public. We disagree; substantial evidence supports all three findings.

The ALJ received conflicting evidence on whether Masterson suffered from PTSD. The VA originally diagnosed Mas-terson with PTSD in October 1992, nearly a year after he first obtained treatment from the VA. Nemir, who performed the consultative psychological exam for the Texas Rehabilitation Commission in January 1995, diagnosed Masterson only with an unspecified personality disorder. Moreover, he commented on the VA’s diagnosis of PTSD by remarking that if Masterson had PTSD, it was certainly an “atypical” version. Likewise, Berry testified that Masterson did not suffer from PTSD. Berry admitted that Masterson might suffer from PTSD, but only if one took Masterson’s testimony as true.

The ALJ, though, found Masterson’s testimony less than fully credible. The ALJ carefully considered this and other evidence and concluded that Masterson did not suffer from PTSD. See Moore v. Sullivan, 919 F.2d 901, 905 (5th Cir.1990) (stating that ALJ has the responsibility to resolve conflicting medical opinions); Chaparro, 815 F.2d at 1011 (stating that ALJ has the responsibility to resolve questions of credibility). Given Nemir’s findings and Berry’s testimony, substantial evidence supports the ALJ’s conclusion that Mas: terson did not suffer from PTSD.

The ALJ also concluded that Mas-terson is not otherwise disabled, despite finding that he suffered from a sleep apnea and a personality disorder. The ALJ found, however, that Masterson’s sleep apnea is well controlled with medication. Masterson, does not challenge this finding[*273] on appeal. Berry testified that Master-son’s unspecified personality disorder was not sufficiently severe to qualify for disability benefits. See 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart B, Appendix 1, Listing 12.08 (“Personality Disorders”). Although Berry admitted on cross-examination that Masterson’s unspecified personality disorder might qualify under the listing if one took Masterson’s testimony as true, the ALJ did not fully credit Masterson’s testimony. Given Berry’s testimony and the ALJ’s finding that Masterson was not entirely credible, substantial evidence supports the ALJ’s conclusion that Masterson was not otherwise disabled.

Finally, the ALJ concluded that Masterson had the residual functional capacity to perform sedentary and light work not involving exposure to stressful situations or dealing with the public. The ALJ expressly and rightly relied on the testimony of Marion, the vocational expert, in reaching this conclusion. Vaughan v. Shalala, 58 F.3d 129, 132 (5th Cir.1995) (the ALJ may rely on vocational expert’s testimony). Masterson offered no contrary evidence and thus did not satisfy his burden to prove that he could not perform the kinds of jobs identified by Marion.

Masterson objects that the ALJ asked Marion improper hypothetical questions about Masterson’s abilities, but the record clearly reflects that the ALJ scrupulously incorporated into the hypothetical questions all of Masterson’s disabilities supported by evidence and recognized by the ALJ. [3] See Boyd v. Apfel, 239 F.3d 698,[*274] 707 (5th Cir.2001). Furthermore, Master-son had the opportunity to cross-examine Marion about the hypothetical questions. Given Marion’s testimony and Masterson’s failure to refute the testimony, substantial evidence supports the ALJ’s finding that Masterson could perform sedentary and light jobs not involving much stress or public interaction.

AFFIRMED.

1

. Masterson was hospitalized briefly in 1994 for chest pain caused primarily by his history of pleurisy or costochondritis. The discharge diagnosis was costochondritis with atypical chest pain and mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

2

. "Substantial gainful activity” is work activity involving significant physical or mental abilities for pay or profit. 20 C.F.R. § 404.1572(a)-(b).

3

. Masterson relies in part on McFarley's report to attack the ALJ’s hypothetical question. Yet, Masterson did not submit the report to the ALJ at all; rather, he obtained the report after the. ALJ's decision and submitted it to the Appeals Council to support his request for a review of the ALJ's decision on the merits. The Appeals Council considered the report, as it must under 20 C.F.R. § 404.970(b), but concluded that the report did not justify reviewing the case on the merits.

We do not understand what Masterson would have us do with McFarley's report. Masterson might have argued that the court should remand to the ALJ for reconsideration in light of the report. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); Ripley v. Chater, 67 F.3d 552, 554-55 (5th Cir.1995). Yet, Masterson does not request a remand in light of the new evidence, so he has waived the argument. United States v. Thibodeaux, 211 F.3d 910, 912 (5th Cir.2000) (stating that questions not briefed on appeal are waived).

Alternatively, Masterson might have argued that we should use McFarley's report as grounds to reverse the ALJ's decision. We have not decided the question whether new evidence presented to the Appeals Council for its decision on whether to review the ALJ's ruling on the merits but not presented to the ALJ is part of the record for the district court to review when the Appeals Council did not consider the ALJ's ruling on the merits.

This question has split the circuits. Compare Matthews v. Apfel, 239 F.3d 589, 593-94 (3d Cir.2001) (holding that such evidence is not part of the record for a district court to review); Eads v. Sec’y of Dep’t of Health & Human Servs., 983 F.2d 815, 817 (7th Cir.1993) (same); Cotton v. Sullivan, 2 F.3d 692, 695-96 (6th Cir.1993) (same) with Perez v. Chater, 77 F.3d 41, 44-45 (2d Cir.1996) (holding that such evidence is part of the record for a district court to review); O’Dell v. Shalala, 44 F.3d 855, 859 (10th Cir.1994) (same); Keeton v. Dep’t of Health & Human Servs., 21 F.3d 1064, 1067 (11th Cir.1994) (same), but see Falge v. Apfel, 150 F.3d 1320, 1323 (11th Cir.1998); Ramirez v. Shalala, 8 F.3d 1449, 1452 (9th Cir.1993) (same); Nelson v. Sullivan, 966 F.2d 363, 366 (8th Cir.1992) (same); Wilkins v. Secretary, Dep’t of Health & Human Servs., 953 F.2d 93, 96 (4th Cir.1991) (en banc) (same). The First Circuit' adopts neither position and instead reviews the ALJ's decision only on the evidence presented to the ALJ, but reviews the Appeals Council’s decision to refuse review when the Council gives an egregiously mistaken ground for its decision. See Mills v. Apfel, 244 F.3d 1, 4-5 (1st Cir.2001).

Again, however, Masterson does not raise this argument on appeal; he simply assumes that McFarley’s report is part of the record for review before the district court and this court. We are unwilling to accept this as[*274] sumption or to decide, without proper briefing, a question that has split the other circuits. Thibodeaux, 211 F.3d at 912 (5th Cir.2000) (opining that questions not briefed on appeal are waived). Moreover, the report would not change the outcome of this appeal, because the report merely diagnoses PTSD after the claim period and without reference to Maslerson’s medical history during the claim period. Cf. Haywood v. Sullivan, 888 F.2d 1463, 1471 (5th Cir.1989) (holding that diagnoses after the claim period are immaterial to remand requests). We therefore reserve the question for another day when properly presented and briefed.