The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently updated the list of occupations used in the disability evaluation process. This update is part of SSA’s ongoing efforts to ensure that its disability programs remain current and relevant. The changes are designed to improve the accuracy and fairness of disability determinations, making it easier for individuals to understand and navigate the process.
Background to SSDI and SSI changes
The SSA administers disability benefits through two main programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To determine eligibility for these benefits, the SSA evaluates whether an individual can perform work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy. This evaluation considers the individual’s capacity to perform work-related activities, as well as their age, education, and work experience.
The role of the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT)
Historically, the SSA has relied on the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) and its companion publication, the Selected Characteristics of Occupations Defined in the Revised Dictionary of Occupational Titles, as primary sources of information about various occupations. These resources provide detailed descriptions of job duties, physical and mental requirements, and other relevant characteristics.
Recent social security updates
In June 2024, the SSA announced significant updates to the list of occupations used in the disability evaluation process. These updates were driven by the need to reflect changes in the labor market and to address concerns raised by federal courts and other stakeholders.
Key changes in disability evaluation
- Removal of obsolete occupations: The SSA identified 114 DOT occupations that exist in very limited numbers, if at all, in each of the nine U.S. Census divisions. These occupations will no longer be used to support a finding of “not disabled” at the final step of the evaluation process.
- Additional evidence requirements: For 13 DOT occupations where federal courts have questioned the supporting evidence for a “not disabled” finding, the SSA has implemented additional evidence requirements. This change aims to ensure that decisions are based on the most accurate and reliable information available.
- Focus on relevant occupations: The SSA will now consider only the most relevant occupations when determining if an individual applying for disability benefits can perform other types of work. This change is expected to streamline the evaluation process and reduce the burden on applicants.
Implications for applicants
These updates are expected to have several positive implications for individuals applying for disability benefits:
- Increased fairness: By removing obsolete occupations and requiring additional evidence for certain jobs, the SSA aims to make the disability determination process more fair and transparent. Applicants can be more confident that their evaluations are based on current and relevant job information.
- Improved accuracy: The focus on relevant occupations will help ensure that disability determinations are based on realistic assessments of an individual’s ability to work. This change is particularly important for individuals with unique or complex medical conditions.
- Reduced burden: The streamlined evaluation process is designed to reduce the administrative burden on applicants. By focusing on the most relevant occupations, the SSA can make quicker and more accurate determinations, potentially reducing the time it takes for applicants to receive a decision.
Short list of the 114 DOT occupations that will not be used in Social Security Disability Evaluation
Below is a short list of occupations that will not be used for Social Security Disability Evaluation. For the full list check here.
- Agricultural engineer
- Agricultural-research engineet
- Design-engineer
- Test engineer
- Agricultural equipment
- Astronomer
- Geographer
- Genealogist
- Historian
- Clerk
- Fur farmer
- Canary breeder
- Dispatcher
- Radiotelegraph operator
- Photoradio operator
- Directory-Assistant operator
- Telegrapher
- Model
- Scuba diver
- Animal Breeder
- Livestock rancher
- Poultry rancher
- Fire ranger
- Loft workers
Future updates
The SSA’s recent updates are part of a broader effort to continuously improve its disability programs. The agency is also analyzing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Requirements Survey, which will inform future updates to the list of occupations used in the disability evaluation process.
