If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), one of the key pieces of your application is the Work History Report (SSA-3369). This form provides the Social Security Administration (SSA) with a detailed overview of your past work experience, which is used to assess whether your disability prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity. Let’s break down the process of completing and submitting this essential report.
What Is the Work History Report (SSA-3369)?
The Work History Report (SSA-3369) is a form you must complete as part of your SSDI application. It details your employment history over the last 5 years prior to becoming unable to work, including job titles, duties, and how your medical conditions affect your ability to perform those jobs. It helps the SSA determine whether you can still work despite your disability and if you qualify for SSDI benefits.
Steps to Complete the Work History Report
Step 1: Gather Your Employment Information. Before filling out SSA-3369, it’s a good idea to have a list of your employment history ready. You will need to provide details about:
Employer names and contact information
Dates of employment for each job (start and end dates)
Job titles
A detailed description of your job duties
If you’ve had multiple roles at the same company, be sure to include all of them in your Work History Report.
Step 2: Complete the Work History Report. The SSA-3369 form will ask for information in several sections. Here’s what you’ll need to fill out:
Personal Information. Your name, Social Security number, contact information, and date of birth.
General Work History. You’ll list each job you’ve had in the past 5 years you worked. For each job, include:
Employer’s name and address
Dates of employment (start and end)
Title or position held
A description of your job duties
The number of hours worked per week
The type of work you performed
For each position, you will be asked to explain:
What tasks you performedWhether those tasks involved physical activities (e.g., lifting, walking, standing)The level of skill required
Whether the job required specific tools or machinery, and if so, which ones
The space provided to explain how your medical condition affects your ability to perform the job is limited, so be direct, but brief, in your answer.
The form will also ask you to list any other jobs you’ve held in the past, including any positions you may have worked in when you were younger or part-time jobs. If you cannot perform your previous jobs due to your disability, the SSA may ask if you have any transferable skills that could help you do other types of work. This allows them to evaluate whether you could perform a different type of work despite your disability.
If there’s any extra information about your work history that is relevant to your disability claim (like periods of unemployment due to your condition), you’ll have an opportunity to provide that, too.
Step 3: Review and Verify Your Information. Once you have completed the form, carefully review it to ensure all the information is accurate and up to date. Check that the job duties are clearly described, and that you have provided clear information about what you were expected to do while holding that role.
If you’re unsure about a particular section, don’t hesitate to ask a friend or family member to review it for clarity.
Step 4: Submit the Work History Report. You can submit the SSA-3369 form in the following ways:
Online: If you’re filing your SSDI application online through the SSA’s website, you can fill out and submit the Work History Report directly online. Log into your SSA account and follow the instructions for submitting your application and related forms.
By Mail: If you’re not applying online, you can download the SSA-3369 from the SSA website, complete it manually, and mail it to the SSA office processing your SSDI claim.
In Person: You can drop the completed form off at your local SSA office.
Make sure to keep a copy of the form for your records, as it may take some time for the SSA to process your application.
Step 5: Follow Up on Your Application. After submitting the Work History Report, be sure to follow up on your SSDI claim. The SSA may contact you for additional information or clarification, especially if there’s any confusion about your work history or disability.
You can check the status of your claim online through your SSA account or by contacting the SSA directly. It’s also a good idea to keep track of any additional forms or medical records the SSA may require during the review process.
Tips for a Successful Submission
Treat it like a resume. You are showing the SSA who you are. Be honest about your past jobs and what was expected of you to carry out your tasks. You should be sure to explain the job requirements and duties exactly as required to perform the role.
Be detailed and specific: The more clarity that you can provide about your job duties, the easier it will be for the SSA to evaluate your claim. Take each question literally, and be honest about exactly what the job entailed..
Don’t leave anything out. Even if a job seems minor or irrelevant, include it in your history if it occurred within the last five years. The SSA will assess every detail to make its decision.
Seek help if needed: If you’re having trouble with the form, you can always ask a representative at the SSA for guidance. Additionally, many nonprofit organizations and legal aid services offer help for individuals applying for SSDI.
Ensure Your Best Chance at Securing Benefits with Disability Attorneys of Michigan
Completing the Work History Report is an essential part of your SSDI application, and taking the time to do it carefully can make a significant difference in the approval process. The more accurately you describe your work experience and duties, the stronger your case will be for receiving SSDI benefits.
If you’re living with a disability and are considering applying for SSDI benefits, contact Disability Attorneys of Michigan today to help you through the process. Contact us today by submitting a form online or calling our office at (800) 949-2900 for a free case evaluation.
