Rendy Parker v. Michael Astrue

MEMORANDUM

Rendy Parker appeals the denial of her application for social security disability insurance benefits and supplemental security income under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act. Because we are unable to determine the basis for the Appeals Council’s decision or adequately evaluate its conclusions, we reverse and remand. See Gonzalez v. Sullivan, 914 F.2d 1197, 1200 (9th Cir.1990).

Parker argues that the Appeals Council erred in concluding that her past work was as a bill collection clerk. In so concluding, the Appeals Council rejected the finding of the ALJ, which was based on the testimony of a vocational expert, that Parker’s past work was as a car re-possessor. At the February 11, 2009, hearing, the vocational expert initially testified that Parker’s past work was best classified as “bill collection clerk” but then, after hearing Parker’s testimony, concluded that “car repossessor” more accurately captured her last job. Parker’s testimony at the hearing was that she left the office to arrange for the repossession of cars consistently “throughout a work week.” This testimony formed the basis for the vocational expert’s conclusion and, in turn, for the ALJ’s…