Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA defines past relevant work as jobs you have performed in the last 15 years that were:

• Substantial in terms of earnings and time.
• Done long enough to learn the duties thoroughly.
• Performed within the previous 15 years before your disability began.

Use in Disability Determination

The SSA evaluates whether you can do your past relevant work despite limitations by:

• Assessing physical and mental demands of your past jobs.
• Comparing those demands with your medical restrictions.
• Determining if your disability prevents you from performing those same tasks.

Importance in Maine

In Maine's disability claims, past relevant work plays a key role by:

• Serving as a benchmark to assess your current functional capacity.
• Helping SSA decide if you are eligible for benefits or can continue working.

When Past Relevant Work is Not Considered

The SSA may disregard past relevant work if:

• Your work experience is too outdated or minimal.
• Your disability affects entirely different functions than those required.

Documentation Required

Supporting your claim requires:

• Detailed work history including job titles, duties, and durations.
• Medical evidence linking your limitations to your inability to perform past relevant work.