Definition of Past Relevant Work

• Work done in the last 15 years that you performed long enough to learn the job skills.
• Relevant skills and experience gained from prior employment that SSA considers when assessing disability.

Role in the Disability Process

• The SSA uses past relevant work to decide if you can still perform your previous jobs despite your disability.
• If you can return to past relevant work, you may be found not disabled.

Evaluation Criteria

• The SSA looks at the physical and mental demands of the past work compared to your current abilities.
• Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) exams help determine if you can meet the job requirements.

Importance in Indiana

• Indiana claimants must clearly document their past work history for accurate SSA assessment.
• Well-documented employment records strengthen your case for disability benefits.

Consequences of Past Work Assessment

• Failure to prove inability to perform past relevant work can lead to denial of benefits.
• Proper use of past relevant work ensures only those truly unable to work due to disability receive benefits.