Maureen Thomas v. Jo Anne Barnhart, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration

Appellant Maureen Thomas appeals the district court’s order affirming the Social Security Administration Commissioner’s (“Commissioner’s”) decision denying Thomas’ application for Supplemental Security Income benefits. We have jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1291 . See Tackett v. Apfel, 180 F.3d 1094, 1097 (9th Cir.1999). Because substantial evidence supports the Commissioner’s decision to deny Appellant benefits, we affirm.

BACKGROUND

Ms. Thomas applied for Supplemental Security Income benefits on December 7, 1993, with a protective filing date of August 11, 1993, alleging disability since August 11, 1993. She has not been gainfully employed since 1993. Ms. Thomas’ applications were denied initially and upon reconsideration. A hearing was held before an administrative law judge (“ALJ”) on December 14,1995.

At the hearing, Ms. Thomas alleged disability due to back, shoulder and neck pain; carpal tunnel syndrome; difficulty concentrating; weakness and fatigue; depression; and disturbed sleep. At the time of the hearing, Ms. Thomas was 52 years old, had completed high school and had earned associate’s degrees in art. Her past relevant work is as a bartender, house cleaner…