Definition of Past Relevant Work by SSA

Understanding the term helps in the disability process:

• Work performed in the last 15 years is considered relevant for SSA review.
• Substantial gainful activity means the job must have provided meaningful income.
• Any job requiring skills or experience you can still perform may affect your claim.

Role in Disability Determinations

SSA uses this information to decide claim outcomes:

• Ability to do past work may lead to denial of disability benefits.
• If unable to do past relevant work, SSA evaluates ability to do other work.
• Assessment of physical and mental demands of your previous employment is critical.

Evaluation Criteria

SSA considers multiple aspects:

• Skills, knowledge, and job duties performed in past work.
• Physical requirements such as lifting, standing, or walking needed for the job.
• Mental demands including concentration and interaction with others.

Importance in Alabama's Disability Process

Local SSA offices rely on this definition to:

• Determine whether claimants qualify for benefits based on previous job abilities.
• Guide vocational experts in assessing transferable work skills.
• Support consistency in disability decision-making.

Common Challenges with Past Relevant Work

Applicants often face difficulties such as:

• Disputes over job descriptions and the nature of prior work tasks.
• Proving limitations that prevent performing past jobs.
• Gathering adequate documentation to explain past work history.