Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA considers PRW as work that was:

• Done within the last 15 years before your disability began.
• Substantial and gainful, meaning it provided significant earnings or skill development.
• Long enough for you to have learned the job skills and duties.

Role of PRW in Disability Determination

SSA uses PRW to:

• Assess if you can still perform your past jobs with your current limitations.
• Decide eligibility based on whether your disability prevents past work.
• Help determine if you can adapt to similar work.

Evaluation Process

During review, SSA:

• Examines your job duties and skills from past employment.
• Considers your physical and mental abilities compared to what your PRW required.
• Uses vocational experts if needed to analyze work demands.

Impact on Disability Claims in North Carolina

Using PRW, the SSA can:

• Approve benefits if you cannot perform your past relevant work.
• Potentially deny benefits if you are able to return to your previous type of work.
• Identify if other work options are available based on transferable skills.

Challenges with PRW in Florida

Some common issues with PRW include:

• Disputes about what counts as relevant work.
• Difficulty proving the physical or mental demands of past jobs.
• Complications when work is part-time or seasonal.