There are millions of people in America who struggle with drug addiction and alcoholism, including many people in Los Angeles. Addiction is a powerful force in many people’s lives, and for many, it becomes the defining characteristic of who they are. However, the reality is that it seems that addiction and alcoholism can happen to anyone. It can happen to Los Angeles residents who have worked and been successful for years, only to find themselves in a difficult position due to addiction.
When people who suffer from addiction or alcoholism become disabled, how will their applications for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits be affected? It would be a mistake for our readers to think that addiction and alcoholism do not play a role in the ultimate determination of whether an application for SSD benefits will be approved.
The main issue? Whether an applicant would be disabled, regardless of the existence of addiction or alcoholism.
If the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that alcoholism or drug addiction is a contributing factor to an applicant’s disability, the application for benefits may be denied. But, if the applicant’s disability would be in existence, regardless of the person’s addiction or alcoholism, the SSA may determine that the applicant meets the requirements for SSD benefits.
There are many different factors that can come into play when a Los Angeles resident is filing for SSD benefits. Addiction and alcoholism are among those factors. When a person is attempting to qualify for SSD benefits, it can be a good idea to get the best information about their own unique circumstances before submitting an application to the Social Security Administration.
Source: SSA.gov, “Drug Addiction and Alcoholism,” accessed on Sept. 17, 2016
