How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in Connecticut?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/17/2025
How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in Connecticut? The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Past Relevant Work (PRW) as any job you have performed in the last 15 years that was done long enough for you to learn how to do it and that was substantial enough to qualify as work. In Connecticut, the SSA uses PRW to evaluate if you can still perform any of your previous jobs despite your disability. This assessment helps determine whether you are eligible for disability benefits or if you can return to your past work. If you can still do your past relevant work, the SSA may decide you are not disabled.
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Definition of Past Relevant Work
Past Relevant Work means:
- Jobs done in the last 15 years where you worked long enough to learn the job.
- Work that was substantial enough to count towards your disability claim.
Role in Disability Determination
The SSA uses your Past Relevant Work to:
- Decide if you can still perform these jobs despite your impairments.
- Test if you can return to your previous work or a similar job.
Impact on Disability Approval in Connecticut
SSA evaluates whether:
- You have the residual functional capacity to do your PRW.
- If yes, your claim may be denied because you are not considered disabled.
Assessing Skills and Demands
SSA examines:
- Physical and mental demands of your past jobs.
- If your current condition allows you to meet those demands.
Why Past Relevant Work Matters
It helps the SSA:
- Avoid awarding benefits to those who can still work.
- Ensure that benefits are given only if you truly cannot do any PRW.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Hogan Smith helps Connecticut residents with understanding and navigating the complexities of Past Relevant Work by:
- Evaluating your work history to identify which jobs SSA will consider as Past Relevant Work.
- Explaining how your medical condition affects your ability to perform those past jobs.
- Gathering and organizing medical and vocational evidence to show you cannot do your PRW.
- Advocating on your behalf during appeals if SSA initially denies your disability claim based on PRW.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you need help with how the SSA defines and uses Past Relevant Work in Connecticut's disability process, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our expert team will guide you through understanding your work history and assist in building a strong case to maximize your chance of approval.
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