Definition of Past Relevant Work

The SSA considers past relevant work as employment that involves:

• Jobs performed within 15 years prior to the disability claim.
• Substantial earnings showing the work was significant.
• Sufficient duration to learn and perform the duties.

Role in Disability Determination

SSA assesses your past relevant work to:

• Establish if you can still do similar tasks despite your condition.
• Evaluate transferable skills to other potential jobs.
• Decide on eligibility for disability benefits based on work capacity.

Assessment of Physical and Mental Demands

SSA analyzes your former jobs for:

• Physical requirements like lifting, standing, or walking.
• Mental demands such as concentration and decision-making.
• Environmental factors like exposure to hazards or stress levels.

Impact on Disability Benefits

The findings affect your claim by:

• Determining if you can perform your past work, which might deny benefits.
• If not, SSA checks for other work you can do considering your limitations.
• Ensuring benefits go to those unable to work in relevant jobs.

Special Considerations in Georgia

Additional aspects in Georgia include:

• Regional job availability which may influence work evaluations.
• Local economy factors affecting job opportunities for disabled individuals.
• State-specific vocational resources considered by SSA during review.