Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA defines past relevant work as:

• Work done in the last 15 years that was substantial and beneficial.
• Jobs you performed long enough to learn skills and gain competence.
• Jobs requiring skills transferable to other work.

How SSA Uses Past Relevant Work

This work is evaluated to determine:

• Whether you can still perform your former jobs despite your disability.
• If you cannot do any past work, whether you can adjust to other work.
• The nature of your previous jobs and the demands they required.

Importance in Disability Determination

Past relevant work plays a key role because:

• It can show if physical or mental limits prevent you from working.
• It helps establish your residual functional capacity (RFC).
• The inability to perform past relevant work might qualify you for benefits.

Michigan-Specific Considerations

In Michigan, the SSA carefully reviews:

• Local job market trends affecting available work types.
• Your detailed work history documented during interviews.
• Any vocational expert testimony on your past relevant work.

Common Challenges

• Lack of detailed work history can delay decisions.
• Disputes over whether past work qualifies as substantial gainful activity.
• Determining transferability of skills can be complex.