How does SSA define the term "past relevant work"?

The term "past relevant work" as defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) refers specifically to work that the claimant has performed within the last 15 years. This time frame is significant because it is focused on the most recent employment experiences, which are considered most relevant to assessing a claimant's current ability to work. The SSA uses this period to ensure that the evaluation of a person's work capability is based on recent skills and experiences, rather than outdated work history that may not reflect current job markets or personal capabilities.

The emphasis on this 15-year window also aligns with the concept that work skills and relevant experiences can become obsolete or less applicable over longer periods, making this timeframe a practical measurement for assessing a person's employability. This criterion allows the SSA to effectively evaluate whether a claimant can return to their previous type of work or adjust to different employment based on recent and relevant job experiences.