How to Prepare for Disability Benefits

Job duties matter more than job titles

A job title alone does not tell SSA much. Two people with the same title can have very different physical and mental demands. Focus on what you actually did, how often, and what became difficult because of your condition.

What to gather for each job

For recent jobs, collect the basics first, then expand into duties and demands.

• Employer name
• Job title
• Approximate start and end dates
• Hours per week
• Main duties
• Physical demands
• Mental or concentration demands
• Why the job ended or hours were reduced

Describe the real demands

Note lifting amounts, standing or walking time, use of hands, bending, climbing, driving, customer contact, supervision, pace, and stress level. If you needed accommodations, extra breaks, or help from coworkers, write that down.

Strong versus weak descriptions

Weak description: 'warehouse worker' or 'office job.' Stronger descriptions explain the actual tasks: 'lifted boxes up to 40 pounds several times an hour,' or 'answered phones, entered data, and stayed seated most of the day while managing frequent interruptions.'

Self-employment and reduced work

If you were self-employed, describe the business tasks and how your condition changed what you could manage. If you reduced hours, changed duties, or stopped working because of health, record when that happened and what changed.

Why this preparation helps

Clear work history helps SSA understand past relevant work and whether those demands are still realistic. It also helps an advocate or representative review your situation more efficiently.