How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in California?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/17/2025

How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in California? The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses 'Past Relevant Work' to determine if a claimant's previous jobs are significant enough to influence their disability decision in California. SSA defines it as work you have done in the last 15 years that required substantial skills or physical demands. This helps SSA assess if you can still perform any of your former jobs despite your disability. Past Relevant Work plays a key role in deciding whether you can return to work or if you qualify for disability benefits.

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Definition of Past Relevant Work

SSA considers:

  • Work done in the last 15 years that was substantial and sustained.
  • Jobs requiring significant skills or exertion relevant to your disability claim.
Role in Disability Decision

SSA uses Past Relevant Work to:

  • Evaluate if you can perform your previous jobs despite your medical condition.
  • Determine your ability to adjust to other types of work.
Consideration of Job Skills and Demands

SSA looks at:

  • Physical and mental demands associated with your past jobs.
  • Whether your current limitations prevent you from those tasks.
Importance in Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)

Past Relevant Work is compared with your:

  • RFC determination to see if you can return to prior work roles.
  • If not, SSA explores other job options you might perform.
Effect on Disability Outcomes

Having Past Relevant Work you can do may:

  • Result in denial of disability benefits if SSA believes you can work.
  • If not, it supports your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

Hogan Smith assists California clients by providing expert guidance on identifying and documenting Past Relevant Work accurately during the disability process.

  • Reviewing your work history to highlight jobs that meet SSA’s criteria for Past Relevant Work.
  • Advising on medical and vocational evidence to demonstrate your current limitations related to past jobs.
  • Helping you prepare for SSA hearings and addressing issues about your ability to do past work effectively.
  • Working with experts to provide strong vocational assessments supporting your claim.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you have questions about how Past Relevant Work affects your Social Security disability claim in California, contact Hogan Smith today. We offer a free consultation to evaluate your work history and help you understand how the SSA uses Past Relevant Work in the disability process. Let our team support you in receiving the benefits you deserve with confidence and clarity.

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