Know Your Legal Rights is a bi-monthly column distributed by the State Bar of Wisconsin. It is sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral Service (LRS), which connects Wisconsin residents with lawyers throughout the state. To find an attorney in your area, visit wislaw.org.
By Jessa Victor
People who are unable to work because of alcohol use disorder (AUD) may qualify for short- or long-term disability benefits (STD/LTD) — just as they would for any other medical condition.
For many years, alcohol dependence was seen as a personal weakness. Today, it’s recognized as a medical disorder that affects the brain and body, leading to cravings, loss of control, and
physical withdrawal symptoms. These can seriously interfere with daily life and a person’s ability to perform their job.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition marked by an inability to control drinking despite negative consequences. Common signs include strong cravings, repeated failed attempts to cut back, drinking in hazardous situations, or continuing to drink despite health or relationship problems.
AUD can range from mild to severe. Like other chronic illnesses, it’s treatable with counseling, medication, and ongoing support.
When Alcohol Use Disorder Qualifies as a Disability
Because AUD can cause measurable health and functional limitations, it can qualify as a disabling condition under many short- and long-term disability (STD/LTD) insurance policies.
Each insurance plan defines “disability” differently, but many consider someone disabled if they can’t perform the material duties of their occupation due to a medical condition. If symptoms of alcohol use disorder prevent you from working safely or consistently, you may be eligible for benefits.
Proving Eligibility
To qualify, you’ll need medical evidence showing both a diagnosis and how your condition limits your ability to work. Useful documentation includes:
- A diagnosis and treatment notes from a doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist.
- Proof of participation in therapy, rehab, or medication-assisted treatment.
- Records showing alcohol-related health effects or co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety.
- Doctor’s statements describing how symptoms interfere with your job — for example, missed work, concentration issues, or safety risks.
- Consistent documentation across medical and employment records.
Insurers often look for signs that you’re engaged in treatment. You don’t need to prove recovery, but showing effort — such as attending therapy or following medical advice — can strengthen your claim.
Benefit Limits for Substance Use Disorders
While STD benefits usually treat AUD like any other health condition, many LTD policies include a “mental illness and substance abuse limitation.” That clause often caps benefits at 24 months for conditions related to substance use or mental health.
This means LTD benefits for alcohol use disorder may be limited to two years, even if symptoms persist beyond the time. Always review your policy carefully or ask a benefits attorney to explain your options.
The Role of Stigma
Even with growing awareness, stigma around alcohol use disorder remains strong. Many people hesitate to seek treatment or file a disability claim out of fear of judgment. But addiction is not a moral failure — it’s a medical condition that deserves care and support.
Just as no one blames someone for developing diabetes or heart disease, those affected by alcohol use disorder should not be blamed for seeking help. Disability benefits exist to allow individuals time to focus on recovery without financial strain.
Where to Find Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use disorder, confidential support and treatment options are available:
- Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline: 211wisconsin.communityos.org/addiction-helpline
- Alcoholics Anonymous: www.aa.org
- SMART Recovery: www.smartrecovery.org
- Moderation Management: www.moderation.org
- Women for Sobriety: www.womenforsobriety.org
Jessa Victor is a Shareholder in Hawks Quindel’s Madison office. She specializes in employee benefits matters, representing individuals with claims for short- and long-term disability insurance, health insurance, life insurance, and retirement benefits. Know Your Legal Rights is sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral Service, which helps connect the public with appropriate legal counsel. Learn more at wislaw.org.
