Alcohol and Drug-Related Problems

You can no longer win Social Security disability benefits based solely on alcoholism or drug addiction even if your substance abuse makes it impossible for you to work. And in fact, if your acohol or drug abuse contributes to another disabling condition you apply for, such as cirrhosis of the liver or depression, your substance abuse could keep you from getting benefits. (Unless you could prove to Social Security that your condition would not improve if you stopped drinking or using drugs.)

Articles

Can I Get Disability for Drug Addiction?

If drug abuse has caused serious physical damage, you may be able to get disability benefits.
Can I Get Social Security Disability for Alcoholism?

If chronic alcoholism has caused physical problems like alcoholic cirrhosis, you may be able to get disability benefits.
Will Alcoholism or Drug Addiction Affect My Disability Benefits Claim?

If you are still drinking or taking drugs, and your impairments would improve if you stopped, you won't be able to get disablity benefits.

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