What Qualifies as Past Relevant Work?

In order to be found disabled, you must show that you cannot perform your past relevant work (PRW).  If you can perform any of your past relevant work, then you will be found not disabled.  Here are the requirements for work to be considered "PRW":

1. The work was performed during the last 15 year period.
2. It was performed at substantial gainful activity level; in 2013 SGA level is gross earnings of at least $1,040 per month.  SGA was less in 2012, etc.
3. The work was performed long enough for the claimant to learn how to do it. If you only worked at a job for 3 or 4 months, it is likely that the judge will determine that isn't long enough to learn the job.

If it is determined that you cannot do any past relevant work, the consideration moves to the final step - can you do any other work that exists in significant numbers in the local or national economy?  If the answer is "yes," you will be found not disabled.

It is also important to understand whether your past relevant work was skilled, semi-skilled or unskilled and whether there are any transferable skills.