Alcoholism and Drug Addiction

Since March 29, 1996, an individual may not be considered disabled if alcoholism or drug addiction is a contributing material factor to the determination of disability. This does not mean that alcoholics or drug addicts cannot be found disabled, just that it cannot be based upon alcoholism or drug addiction as the disabling condition. Many illnesses and other physical and mental problems caused by alcoholism and drug addiction can serve as the basis for a finding of disability. Also, the individual can be found disabled based on other conditions that would not go away if there was no use of alcohol or drugs. In many of these cases the Social Security Administration will require that a representative payee be appointed to handle benefits if awarded.