The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently introduced a significant change to its disability benefits program that could help more applicants qualify for assistance. This update focuses on the removal of outdated jobs from the SSA’s jobs database, which is used to determine whether disability applicants can find alternative work. By modernizing this database, the SSA aims to improve the fairness and accuracy of its disability determinations, ensuring that applicants are not unjustly denied benefits based on age.

Why the Jobs Database Was Outdated

In evaluating applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the SSA assesses whether an applicant can perform any other work based on their abilities. To do this, the SSA has long relied on a jobs database that lists thousands of occupations. However, this database hadn’t been fully updated since 1977, leading to many outdated and obsolete jobs remaining on the list. These jobs, which have little to no relevance in today’s economy, have contributed to unjust denials of disability claims for many applicants.

Examples of Obsolete Occupations

Some of the jobs that persisted in the SSA’s database include:

• Reptile farmer
• Railroad telegrapher
• Watch repairer
• Nut sorter
• Egg processor

These jobs are either rare or no longer exist in any meaningful capacity, yet they were still being cited by SSA decision-makers as potential employment options for applicants. This made it harder for many individuals to qualify for disability benefits, as they were being evaluated against occupations that were not realistic options.

The SSA’s Decision to Update Its Jobs Database

After years of criticism regarding the outdated jobs database, the SSA announced that it is removing 114 obsolete occupations from its system. This decision comes after public outcry, including coverage by the Washington Post, which highlighted a case where a disability applicant was denied benefits because the judge determined that he could still work as a nut sorter or egg processor—jobs that are virtually nonexistent today.

This change will apply to both SSDI, which provides benefits to individuals who cannot work due to a long-term or terminal medical condition, and SSI, which assists disabled individuals with low incomes.

The Importance of This Update for Applicants

This update is viewed as a major victory for disability applicants and advocates. By removing outdated job listings, the SSA will help ensure that applicants are judged based on more realistic employment opportunities. Anansi Wilson, a law professor, called this change “huge,” particularly for disabled people of color, who are statistically more likely to face denials for disability benefits. The update is a critical step toward creating a fairer system, one that reflects today’s job market and recognizes the challenges disabled individuals face in finding work.

The GAO’s “High Risk” Classification

In a 2023 report, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) deemed both Social Security’s and the Department of Veterans Affairs’ disability programs as “high risk,” meaning they were vulnerable to inefficiencies and outdated criteria. By updating its jobs database, the SSA is addressing one of the key concerns raised by the GAO, which should improve the overall accuracy and fairness of its disability determinations.

Which Jobs Are Being Dropped?

As part of this update, the SSA is removing 114 jobs from its database that are no longer relevant to the modern economy. These jobs can no longer be cited by SSA decision-makers when determining whether a disability applicant could find alternative work. Examples of jobs that have been dropped include:

• Canary breeder
• Character impersonator
• Directory assistance operator
• Historian of the dramatic arts
• Motion-picture projectionist
• News wire-photo operator
• Radiotelegraph operator
• Watch repairer

By focusing on more relevant occupations, the SSA is ensuring that disability applicants are not denied benefits based on unrealistic job opportunities.

How This Change Will Benefit Disability Applicants

The SSA’s decision to modernize its jobs database will positively impact millions of Americans applying for Social Security disability benefits. By removing outdated job listings, the SSA is helping to create a more equitable system for applicants, ensuring they are evaluated based on realistic employment opportunities that actually exist today. This update will help prevent unjust denials, making it easier for individuals to access the benefits they need to maintain their financial stability during a time of disability.

Why Hiring a Social Security Disability Attorney is Crucial

While this update marks a significant improvement in the SSA’s disability benefits process, navigating the complexities of the application process can still be challenging. Hiring a Social Security disability attorney can make a critical difference in the success of an application. Attorneys can help applicants ensure that all required documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted on time, increasing the likelihood of approval.

At SocialSecurityDisability.com, we offer a free attorney-matching service that connects individuals with experienced Social Security disability attorneys. Whether you are facing a denial or need assistance with the application process, we can help you find the legal support you need at no cost. Our goal is to help you secure the disability benefits you deserve.

For more information on Social Security Disability and to find legal assistance, visit SocialSecurityDisability.com.