Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA considers work that:

• Was done in the past 15 years prior to the disability claim.
• Lasted long enough for the claimant to acquire significant skills or experience.
• Includes jobs where you performed duties that require transferable skills.

Role in Disability Determination

The SSA uses past relevant work to:

• Assess whether you can still perform your previously held jobs.
• Evaluate if your disability limits your ability to do similar work.
• Help decide if you can adjust to other work given your skills.

Types of Work Considered

Past relevant work includes:

• Skilled, semiskilled, and unskilled work based on your job history.
• Jobs involving substantial gainful activity prior to disability onset.
• Work that reflects your actual earning capacity and training.

Time Limits

Work is only considered relevant if:

• Performed within the last 15 years before filing for disability.
• Long enough duration to gain familiarity and competency with job tasks.
• Reflects the claimant's ability to perform current job duties.

Impact on Disability Eligibility in Minnesota

Past relevant work affects:

• Whether the SSA finds you disabled or able to work.
• The agency’s decisions at the vocational evaluation stage.
• Potential eligibility for continued employment or retraining.