Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Step 9: Make Amends to People You’ve Harmed

Alcoholics Anonymous is a 12-Step program designed to help you achieve and maintain sobriety by attending regular meetings and working through each of the 12 Steps in sequence.

Here, we explore Step 9 of AA, ways to work this step, how to find a 12-Step recovery support group, and how you can find a treatment program that meets your needs.

What Is Step 9 of AA?

Step 9 of AA states, "Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others."² This Step invites members to let go of ego and embrace humility as they work to appropriately address and take accountability for past harmful actions toward others.³

Many people find this step difficult because it asks you to face the harm your alcohol use may have caused others.

This step includes an important caveat: think carefully about whether sharing every detail could harm the person you're making amends to.

This doesn't mean you never share information that could hurt a loved one. It means timing and support matter. Sharing sensitive details too early in recovery, or without support, can further strain the relationship.

What Is the Purpose of Step 9 of AA?

The purpose of Step 9 of AA has two parts: it gives you a chance to look at past behaviors and work to repair relationships.

Peer support can be an important part of sobriety for many people. By fostering connection, growth, and respect, peer support can keep people engaged in their recovery journey and lower the risk of relapse.¹ By repairing relationships, you may help others and give yourself a chance to rebuild support with family and friends. This can also support your progress toward the promises of recovery.

How to Complete Step 9 of AA

Completing Step 9 of AA is a highly personal process that can look different for everyone. It's important to take your time and be intentional with your actions while working this Step.

Completing Step 9 of AA is a personal process, and it can look different for everyone. It can help to take your time and act with care while you work this Step.

Some options that may help as you work Step 9 of AA include the following:

• Avoid arguing. When you make amends, the other person might feel upset or unsure because trust was broken in the past. If you meet resistance, you can stay calm, share that you regret your actions, and explain what you've changed.
• Be ready to listen. Listening can help repair relationships and support forgiveness. When you apologize, the other person may want to share how your actions affected them. Listen carefully and keep taking responsibility.
• Talk about change. Sharing the changes you've made may help the other person understand you're serious. You can talk about steps you're taking to support sobriety, like going to meetings, working with a sponsor, or getting treatment.
• Make physical amends. When possible, work to make it right. For example, replacing a damaged item, paying back debts, or completing tasks you committed to can help.How Step 9 of AA Fits Into Your Recovery Journey

How Step 9 of AA Fits Into Your Recovery Journey

To work Step 9 of AA, it helps to first complete Step 8 of AA. In Step 8, you identify the people you harmed while drinking or during active addiction. It builds on the moral inventory work from earlier steps.³ Once you’ve made your list of people to make amends to, you can begin putting Step 9 into action.

After you complete Step 9, you'll move on to Step 10 of AA. In Step 10, you practice noticing harmful actions as they happen and taking accountability, while continuing your personal inventory work.²

How to Find a 12-Step AA Program

You can find a 12-Step program by downloading the AA Meeting Guide app, which connects you to more than 100,000 meetings in person and online. You can also search for virtual AA meetings by visiting the AA Online Intergroup page. Searching "AA meetings near me" in your web browser can also bring up state or local websites with nearby meetings.

Learn More About the 12 Steps

• AA Step 1
• AA Step 2
• AA Step 3
• AA Step 4
• AA Step 5
• AA Step 6
• AA Step 7
• AA Step 8
• AA Step 10
• AA Step 11
• AA Step 12
• AA Big Book
• AA Promises

Find Treatment Centers to Support Your 12-Step Recovery

Working the Steps can help, and many people also benefit from professional care alongside AA. Recovery.com can help you find treatment centers that offer medical detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient programs, sober living, and aftercare programs. Compare trusted options and choose support that strengthens your recovery and helps you move forward with confidence.