If drug or alcohol abuse is found to be a “material” factor in your disability claim you will not be found disabled. This does not mean that you cannot be found disabled if you are suffering from alcoholism of drug addiction. For drug or alcohol use to be disqualifying, it must be a contributing factor to your disability. SSA must first determine if you are disabled given all your medical impairments, including the effects of your alcohol and drug use. If you are disabled, SSA then must determine if you would still be disabled if the drug or alcohol use was not present.

Keep in mind that although medicinal marijuana use is legal in some states, such as California, it is still considered an illegal drug according to the Federal Government and SSA.

 

Social Security Disability Topics

The Social Security Disability Process

Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

How Social Security Determines if You Are Disabled

Improving Your Chances of Winning

Do I really need to get an attorney?

Your Hearing Before An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Appealing a Denial of Benefits