Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA defines past relevant work as:

• Jobs held in the last 15 years that were performed long enough for you to gain skills.
• Work that is considered skilled, semi-skilled, or unskilled under SSA guidelines.
• Positions with substantial pay or responsibilities qualifying as meaningful employment.

Role in the Disability Process

SSA uses this work history to:

• Determine if you can still perform your past jobs despite disabilities.
• Assess if your physical and mental capabilities allow you to resume similar occupations.
• Decide whether you qualify for benefits or if you can adjust to other work.

Assessment of Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)

The SSA evaluates:

• Your ability to meet the demands of past relevant work based on your current condition.
• Limitations that affect your capacity to handle job tasks such as lifting, sitting, or concentrating.
• Whether your disability prevents you from performing prior paid work.

Implications if Past Work Is Relevant

If you are capable of your past relevant work, SSA might:

• Find you not disabled since you can still work.
• Suggest a denial of benefits because your disability doesn't stop you from past roles.
• Require proof that you are unable to return to similar work due to medical reasons.

Challenges in Proving Inability to Do Past Relevant Work

Common difficulties include:

• Showing your disability creates significant limitations preventing job duties.
• Compiling adequate medical evidence to support functional restrictions.
• Demonstrating that employer demands can no longer be met safely or effectively.

Past Relevant Work and Virginia-Specific Rules

In Virginia, it is important to:

• Provide detailed work history specific to Virginia employment conditions.
• Explain how local job market and your skills affect your capacity for past relevant work.
• Understand the SSA's interpretations may consider Virginia’s economic and work environment nuances.