The article presents the algorithm of the step method for determining the limit loads for elastic-plastic rod systems. The development of the iterative process with the hypotheses used is given, taking into account the influence of the moment and longitudinal force on the limit state of individual sections, the lenght of the plastic deformation zones along the lenght of the rod. The advantage of the step-by-step method for determining the limit loads in rod systems in comparison with the "direct method " of A.R.Rzhanitsyn is demonstrated. The functions of forms depending on the type of section in explicit form are defined; the algorithm of tabulation of the form function is developed.

Keywords: slab and pile foundation, settlement of the building,stress-strain state,homogeneous anisotropic analog,finite element method