How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in Mississippi?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/19/2025
How does SSA define and use 'Past Relevant Work' in the disability process in Mississippi? The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Past Relevant Work (PRW) as jobs you have done in the last 15 years that were substantial and gainful. In Mississippi, SSA uses your PRW to evaluate whether you can still do work you have done before, which directly affects your disability determination. If you are able to perform your PRW given your condition, SSA will likely deny disability benefits. However, if your impairments prevent you from doing your PRW, SSA may consider your disability claim for further review.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Definition of Past Relevant Work
SSA considers PRW as work that:
- You performed within the last 15 years before applying for disability in Mississippi.
- That was substantial gainful activity (SGA), meaning you earned above a certain threshold set by SSA.
- Was done long enough for you to learn the job well enough to perform it again.
Role of Past Relevant Work in Disability Evaluation
SSA uses PRW to assess if you can:
- Still perform the duties of your past jobs despite your impairment.
- Engage in similar work based on your residual functional capacity.
Mississippi-Specific Considerations
- Local job market factors may influence what SSA considers comparable work.
- Documentation from Mississippi employers and providers supports PRW evaluation.
Importance in Denial or Approval
- If you can do PRW, SSA will likely deny the claim.
- If you cannot perform PRW, SSA will consider other work options or approve benefits.
Medical and Functional Analysis
- Functional capacity assessments help determine job limitations related to PRW.
- Medical evidence must show how impairments affect your ability to do past jobs.
Work History and Review
- Accurate work history details are essential for SSA to evaluate PRW properly.
- Mississippi-specific job demands may be considered in relation to your capabilities.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we guide Mississippi applicants through understanding and proving their Past Relevant Work to improve disability claim outcomes by:
- Analyzing your work history to clearly identify jobs SSA classifies as past relevant.
- Collecting and organizing medical and vocational evidence that demonstrates how your impairments impact your PRW abilities.
- Explaining how SSA evaluates PRW in Mississippi to set realistic expectations for your claim.
- Helping you prepare for disability hearings by developing strong arguments about your inability to perform PRW.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you're facing challenges with how SSA defines or applies your Past Relevant Work in Mississippi's disability process, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will advocate for your rights and help maximize your chance of a favorable disability decision.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you