Is eligibility to disability benefits affected by drug or alcohol dependence?
Yes. If your disability is a direct result of alcohol or drug abuse that is continuing in nature and reversible if you cease use of these substances, then you will be ineligible to receive benefits under the Contract with America Advancement Act signed on 3/29/96. Please note that the use of drugs or alcohol must be the only or primary disability. For example, a person will not be qualified to benefits if they are using drugs or alcohol that results in psychiatric illness that would not exist but for the use of these substances. On the other hand, if you suffer from irreversible nerve damage, pancreatitis, or liver damaged from prolonged drug or alcohol use, the fact that you continue to suffer from addiction will not prevent you from receiving disability benefits. Although this is the law, you should expect a lengthy fight to receive benefits based on this type of eligibility.
