Occupational Data and Automation: What Has Actually Changed

Disability decisions about other work depend on both a person’s limitations and evidence about jobs. New data can affect that analysis, but a research project or software tool does not automatically replace the governing rules.

A Documented Jobs-List Change

In June 2024, SSA said it would stop using 114 Dictionary of Occupational Titles occupations to support a finding that someone could adjust to other work, because those jobs existed in very limited numbers or not at all across the Census divisions. The agency also announced extra evidence requirements for 13 other occupations. This was a specific update, not the retirement of the entire occupational system.

What the New Data Project Means

SSA’s Occupational Information System project uses work with the Bureau of Labor Statistics to develop more current information about job demands. Its published questions and answers say policy and computer-system changes are necessary before the new system is implemented. That source does not establish that a fully automated system now decides every disability claim.

Vocational Evidence Still Needs Context

Social Security Ruling 24-3p, effective January 6, 2025, addresses vocational specialists, vocational experts and occupational information. It recognizes the DOT alongside other reliable sources. An occupational code or a job count alone does not explain whether the work fits a particular person’s limitations.

For a claim, focus on an accurate account of past duties and supported limitations. Ask your representative how any cited occupation, data source or expert explanation relates to the issues in your case.

Useful Next Steps

• Understand vocational-expert evidence
• Read the grid-rule guide

Sources

• SSA: occupations-list update, June 24, 2024^[1]
• SSA: Occupational Information System project questions^[2]
• SSA: Social Security Ruling 24-3p^[3]

Independent educational coverage. We are not affiliated with SSA. This article does not determine eligibility or replace advice about an individual claim.

Official Sources and References

These SSA.gov links support the explanations above. Official applications, account services, and agency forms are completed through SSA.

1. SSA: occupations-list update, June 24, 2024 — SSA.gov
2. SSA: Occupational Information System project questions — SSA.gov
3. SSA: Social Security Ruling 24-3p — SSA.gov