CAN DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE OR ABUSE IMPACT THE DECISION ON MY DISABILITY CLAIM?
The short answer is: YES. If an individual would be able to work if alcohol and drug use/abuse were to stop, then that individual will not be found disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act. Another way to put it is that individuals who are unable to work due to drug and alcohol use/abuse are not entitled to disability benefits. On the other hand, alcohol and drug use/abuse do not necessarily prevent an individual from being found disabled. Individuals who use/abuse alcohol and drugs will be found disabled if they would remain disabled even if all use/abuse were to stop. The occasional social drink or glass of wine with a meal should not influence the decision on an individual´s disability claim.
The short answer is: YES. If an individual would be able to work if alcohol and drug use/abuse were to stop, then that individual will not be found disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act. Another way to put it is that individuals who are unable to work due to drug and alcohol use/abuse are not entitled to disability benefits. On the other hand, alcohol and drug use/abuse do not necessarily prevent an individual from being found disabled. Individuals who use/abuse alcohol and drugs will be found disabled if they would remain disabled even if all use/abuse were to stop. The occasional social drink or glass of wine with a meal should not influence the decision on an individual´s disability claim in most cases.
