Alcohol use disorder is a medical diagnosis describing a chronic pattern of problematic drinking characterized by impaired control, cravings, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences. It ranges from mild to severe and can lead to liver disease, cardiovascular problems, cognitive decline, mental health issues, and social or legal difficulties. Alcohol use disorder significantly increases mortality and morbidity risk, making it a major concern for life, disability, and long-term care insurers. Underwriters differentiate between occasional heavy use, harmful use, and full alcohol use disorder when assessing applications, with particular attention to treatment history and duration of sustained sobriety.

Underwriters evaluating alcohol use disorder review medical records, treatment histories, lab results, and any documentation of DUIs or workplace issues. Active disorder, recent relapse, or limited treatment engagement often leads to postponement or decline, while long-term, well-documented recovery may eventually support carefully rated offers. Advisors supporting clients with alcohol use disorder focus on timing applications after meaningful periods of stability, obtaining thorough documentation, and setting expectations that coverage may be limited or costly. They may also explore group coverage, guaranteed-issue options, or smaller face amounts as interim solutions. Understanding alcohol use disorder helps advisors handle these cases with sensitivity, encourage treatment and support, and design realistic protection strategies around elevated risk.