Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA defines Past Relevant Work as:

• Jobs performed within the last 15 years that lasted long enough for you to learn to do them well.
• Work that has a meaningful impact on your ability to earn a living.
• Positions involving specific skills and exertion levels relevant to your disability claim.

Role in Disability Evaluation

SSA uses Past Relevant Work to:

• Assess if you can still perform the same or similar jobs despite your limitations.
• Help determine whether your disability fully prevents you from working.
• Compare your physical and mental capacity against your previous job requirements.

Work Experience Limits

Key timeframes and conditions include:

• Only work within the past 15 years is considered relevant.
• Job must have been performed long enough to learn and maintain skill level.
• Work that meets certain exertional levels(sedentary, light, medium, etc.) is analyzed.

Impact of Disability on Past Relevant Work

SSA evaluates your ability to:

• Perform the sustained activities of your prior jobs.
• Overcome physical, mental, or environmental limitations related to those roles.
• Adapt to any changes in occupational demands caused by your disability.

Use in Tennessee Disability Claims

For Tennessee residents:

• The SSA applies federal standards for Past Relevant Work assessment.
• Local labor market conditions may be considered during the review.
• This evaluation is critical to determine if benefits are approved or denied.