How Drug and/or Alcohol Addictions May Affect Social Security Disability Benefits

This information is not intended to be authoritarian in nature and is provided only for your information. This information may not be the latest rulings provided by the SSA. Detailed information can be obtained from the Social Security Administration's website where this information was obtained. You may also fill out the form on this page for a FREE claim evaluation.

SSR 13-2p

During 2013 the Social Security Administration published SSR 13-2p concerning drug and alcohol addictions and how the addiction affects determining whether or not someone should receive disability benefits.

The Key!

The bottom line is the answer to this question: "Would the applicant still be disabled if the person was not using drugs or alcohol?"

Burden of Proof

In order to receive Social Security disability benefits for any disability, it is up to the applicant to prove that their disability prevents them from working gainfully. Some drug addictions, as well as alcohol, may make medical and mental conditions worse. Therefore, in the case of substance abuse, the applicant must further prove that the addiction or abuse is not the reason they are unable to work.

Summary

If substance abuse is the only factor causing disability, then one can expect a denial of disability benefits. However, if the applicant has additional medical or mental problems that would prevent gainful employment even without the addiction, then they have an opportunity to receive Social Security disability benefits.

I'm Still Not Sure if I Qualify For Social Security Disability

If you are unsure if your injury, illness or pain allows you to qualify for disability insurance, the acclaimed Cochran Firm offers you a FREE consultation whereby your claim may be evaluated. If your case is accepted, our experienced Social Security disability lawyers can help you obtain the benefits you deserve through the Disability System. Under the Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers' Social Security disability program, you will not be charged unless we win your disability benefits for you.

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Social Security Disability List of Injuries and Illnesses

Musculoskeletal System
(back & joint pain, fractures, injuries, Carpal Tunnel)

Respiratory System
(lung diseases such as asthma, sleep apnea)

Digestive System
(gastrointestinal, liver, bowel, nutrition)

Hematological Disorders
(blood related problems)

Endocrine Disorders
(diabetes, pancreatitis)

Neurological
(brain, stroke, seizures, Parkinson's, head injuries, migraines)

Malignant Neoplastic Diseases
(cancers & tumors)

Special Senses and Speech
(hearing, vision, vertigo)

Cardiovascular System
(heart attacks, chronic heart failure, blood clots)

Genitourinary Impairments
(kidney disease, dialysis)

Skin Disorders
(light sensitivity, burns)

Impairments that Affect Multiple Body Systems
(Down Syndrome)

Mental Disorders
(autism, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and more)

Immune System Disorders
(HIV, lupus, arthritis)

Contributed by: Benjamin A. Irwin, Esq.

The information on this website does not constitute legal advice nor form an attorney-client relationship. Please contact The Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers today to schedule a free Social Security disability benefits consultation. No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. You may view our Privacy Policy and Web Disclaimer. The Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers, P.C. is an Alabama Professional Corporation that operates in partnership with The Cochran Firm, P.C. The Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers, P.C. limits its practice to Social Security matters. For assistance in any other area of legal practice, call The Cochran Firm at 1-800-THE FIRM.