How Substance Abuse May Impact Your Social Security Disability Claim
Did you know that substance abuse can have an impact on your application for Social Security disability benefits?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better.
In this video, we will discuss considerations for Social Security disability claims that may involve substance abuse.
Focus on Your Underlying Medical Conditions
If you are applying for Social Security disability benefits for medical impairments but also have a history—past or present—of substance abuse, focus your application on your underlying medical conditions.
- Gather comprehensive medical evidence that documents your disabling physical or mental health conditions separate from any substance abuse issues.
- Emphasize how those conditions impact and limit your ability to work, even if you were to stop using drugs or alcohol.
Document Periods of Sobriety (If Applicable)
It can also be helpful to establish periods of sobriety. If possible:
- Document periods where you abstained from substance use but still experienced disabling symptoms.
- This helps demonstrate that your disability would persist even without drug or alcohol use.
Support from Treating Physicians
It can also be helpful to get support from your treating physicians.
- Ask your doctors to provide detailed statements explaining how your medical conditions impact your functioning independent of any substance use.
- The doctor’s professional opinions may carry weight with the Social Security Administration during their review.
Be Honest About Substance Use
Be honest about any substance use. Don’t try to hide past or current substance abuse, as that could ultimately hurt your credibility.
- Instead, focus on how you’ve been addressing the issue through treatment or recovery programs.
- When evaluating a claim, the Social Security Administration will determine whether your substance use is material to your disability.
The Key to a Successful Claim Involving Substance Abuse
The key is demonstrating that you would still be unable to work, even if you stopped using drugs or alcohol.
Providing clear medical evidence of your underlying conditions and how they affect your ability to function is critical for a successful claim that involves drug or alcohol abuse.
Thanks so much for watching!
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