The Work History Report (SSA-3369) is a critical part of your disability claim. This form helps SSA evaluate whether your disability prevents you from doing your past work or adjusting to new types of work. How you describe your job duties and work limitations can significantly impact SSA’s decision, so it’s important to be thorough and accurate.
Why Detail Matters in the Work History Report
Your job history is more than just a list of roles; it tells SSA how physically and mentally demanding your work was, and why you can no longer perform these tasks due to your disability. For example, if you were a retail worker, simply saying “handled sales” doesn’t give SSA enough context. Instead, explain that your job involved standing for long hours, lifting boxes of inventory, and dealing with the stress of managing customer complaints.
Being vague or general in your job descriptions can lead SSA to assume that you’re still capable of performing these duties, which might result in a denial. In contrast, providing detailed examples of how your condition affects specific job tasks allows SSA to see the full scope of your limitations.
Claimants often make the mistake of downplaying their work responsibilities, which can harm their claim. To avoid this, be specific about how tasks like lifting, standing, or concentrating became more difficult as your condition worsened.
Explaining Job Transitions and Modifications
If your condition caused you to transition out of your job or request workplace accommodations, it’s important to explain this clearly on SSA-3369. This shows SSA how your ability to work declined over time and that even with adjustments, you could no longer perform essential job functions.
For example, a nurse with chronic back pain might have initially been moved to lighter duties, such as administrative work, but eventually found that even sitting at a desk caused pain. By detailing this transition and showing that modifications were not enough, you help SSA understand the progression of your disability.
Another common mistake is failing to mention job modifications. Claimants sometimes assume that because their employer allowed for certain accommodations, SSA will see them as able to work. However, explaining how even modified tasks were unmanageable strengthens your case.
Avoiding Common Mistakes on SSA-3369
Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when completing your Work History Report:
- Being too vague: Instead of writing “desk job,” explain how your administrative work involved repetitive motions like typing, which worsened your carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Downplaying the physical demands of your job: If your job involved lifting 50-pound boxes, don’t gloss over this detail—it’s critical in demonstrating how your condition limits your ability to work.
Another frequent error is assuming SSA understands the nature of your work. Claimants sometimes write “sales” or “management” without explaining the physical, mental, or emotional toll their job took. Always be specific, giving SSA a clear picture of the challenges you faced.
How SSA Uses the Work History Report
SSA cross-references your work history with your medical records to assess whether you can return to your past work or adapt to other work. If there’s any inconsistency between your work history and what your medical records say, SSA might question the validity of your claim.
For example, if you list job duties that involved standing and heavy lifting but fail to show how your back injury prevents you from standing for long periods, SSA may conclude you’re still able to perform that work. Being consistent in how you describe your symptoms and work limitations is crucial.
Working with an attorney like DLG can help ensure that your medical records and work history report align perfectly. An experienced attorney can also help you explain job transitions, modifications, and other details that may not seem important at first glance but are critical to building a strong case.
Completing SSA-3369 is a critical step in proving your disability claim. If you’re unsure how to fill out the form or need help organizing your work history, Disability Law Group is here to assist you. Contact their experienced team to ensure your work history reflects your limitations and strengthens your claim.
