Definition of Past Relevant Work

• Work done in the last 15 years that was significant enough to learn and perform effectively.
• Jobs requiring sufficient skill, experience, and duration that demonstrate your work capacity.
• Any job performed longer than 6 months and substantial enough for skill accumulation.

Role in Disability Determination

• SSA uses PRW to assess if you can do your past jobs despite disabilities.
• Finding you unable to perform PRW may support eligibility for benefits.
• If you can perform PRW, SSA may deny disability claims.

Evaluation Criteria

• SSA considers the physical and mental demands of your past work.
• The decision factors include your current medical condition and functional capacity.
• Jobs are analyzed for whether you could still perform them full-time with your limitations.

Importance to Applicants in New Jersey

• PRW helps determine if New Jersey applicants are truly disabled or able to work.
• Understanding PRW guides New Jersey claimants in presenting complete work histories.
• Accurate job descriptions and tasks are essential to avoid misinterpretation.

Common Challenges

• Applicants may not realize that similar past jobs count as PRW.
• The focus on functional capacity sometimes leads to disputes over work abilities.
• Lack of detailed vocational information can complicate SSA’s assessment.