The Interview

The individual may choose to be interviewed alone or with other family members present.  The individual should bring to the interview any information or documents that would help accurately answer the VE's questions.  The interview usually lasts one to two hours and the individual should be prepared to answer questions relating to the following topics:

• Education/training history - dates, location, degrees/certificates, licenses
• Current/former work history - dates, locations, employers' name, job titles, requirements, wage rates (last 25 years)
• Medical problems/restrictions - related pain/discomfort
• Medications/treatments/side effects
• Family/marriage relationships - living arrangements
• Emotional/psychological issues
• Ability to engage in exertional activities (walk, stand, sit, lift, carry, bend, stoop, push-pull, etc.)
• Non-exertional functioning (concentration, memory, social interaction, following instructions, public contact)
• Former/current daily living activities, hobbies, interests, social activities
• Future hopes, desires, aspirations
• Career/employment/educational goals or desires