If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits and do not want to risk losing the benefits to which you are entitled, you should avoid using illegal drugs and alcohol. If the use of illegal drugs and alcohol is a major factor causing your disability, Social Security laws can prevent you from receiving benefits. Though at one time, people were receiving Disability benefits for alcohol abuse, federal laws have changed. Social Security Disability benefits can no longer compensate for drug addiction and alcoholism.
It is possible to prove an individual is disabled even if they have an ongoing drug abuse or alcohol addiction; however, his or her credibility will be questioned and the individual may not be considered a trustworthy witness. The individual must prove that the drug and alcohol use is not causing the disability. For a Disability claim to be successful, a person must prove that the disability would exist absent the abuse of drugs or alcohol.
The Philadelphia Social Security Disability Lawyers at Silver & Silver Help our Clients Avoid Mistakes
The Philadelphia Social Security Disability lawyers at Silver & Silver consider the best interests of disabled individuals their priority. Our lawyers will guide you through the complicated application process and warn you against the dangers that can put your claim at risk. If you or a family member have become disabled and intends to file Social Security Disability claim, using illegal drugs and abusing alcohol should be avoided completely. If addiction is an issue, our disability attorneys will work to separate that issue from your disability so that you can receive the benefits that are rightfully due you. We are committed to keeping our clients well informed about the best way to avoid making claims mistakes. Look for the next installment to our blog series on serious errors when pursuing a Social Security Disability claim – failing to bring a key witness to your hearing.
Our office is conveniently located in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, serving clients throughout thePhiladelphia region including Delaware County, Montgomery County and Bucks County. We also accommodate many South Jersey communities such as Camden, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Moorestown and Mt. Laurel. To speak with one of our Social Security Disability lawyers, call our office at 800-947-4583 or contact us online.
