Paying for drug or alcohol treatment can be a problem, because typically all resources have been exhausted due to the persons drug habit. Many drug treatment facilities recognize this reality which is why many drug rehabilitation programs across the nation offer payment arrangements known as a sliding scale fee. There are several variables put into the equation of determining what the fee will be from person to person, and these factors are based on individual circumstances such as income, cash on hand, living circumstances, the size of one's family etc. Sliding scale fees have been in use for some time as most drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs would rather find a way to make it work financially so that those suffering with addiction can receive the help they need.