The Social Security Administration (SSA) has shortened the period it reviews for a claimant’s “past
relevant work.” As of June 22, 2024, the SSA now only considers the most recent five years of work
history, a significant reduction from the previous 15-year period. Additionally, the SSA no longer counts
jobs that lasted fewer than 30 calendar days in its work history evaluation.
These changes are intended to lessen the burden on applicants and focus the review on more recent and relevant employment
history.