Last reviewed March 2026 — LetterSure editorial team
Had a benefits decision you disagree with? You have the right to challenge it. A formal letter requesting a mandatory reconsideration is your first step — here is exactly how to write one that gets results.
The first step in challenging any benefits decision is to request a mandatory reconsideration. This is a formal request for the DWP to review their decision before you can appeal to an independent tribunal. You must complete this step first — you cannot go straight to tribunal without it.
You generally have one month from the date of the decision letter to request a mandatory reconsideration. If you miss this deadline you can still request one but you will need to explain why you are late. After the mandatory reconsideration outcome, you have one month to appeal to an independent tribunal if you are still unhappy.
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Generate my appeal letter — £6.99PIP — Personal Independence Payment
A decision that you do not qualify, or that you qualify for a lower rate than you believe you are entitled to.
Universal Credit
A decision about your entitlement, sanction, or the amount you have been awarded.
ESA — Employment and Support Allowance
A decision about your capability for work or your work-related activity group.
Housing Benefit
A decision about your entitlement or the amount you have been awarded.
Council Tax Reduction
A decision by your local council about your council tax reduction entitlement.
Carer's Allowance
A decision about your entitlement to Carer's Allowance.
Your full name, address and National Insurance number
So the DWP can locate your claim quickly.
The date of the decision you are challenging
Reference the decision letter date and any reference number.
Which benefit the decision relates to
State clearly which benefit you are appealing about.
Why you disagree with the decision
Explain specifically what you believe is wrong and why — be factual and clear.
Supporting evidence
Mention any medical evidence, letters from professionals, or other documents that support your case.
What outcome you want
State clearly that you want the decision to be changed and what you believe the correct decision should be.
The DWP must acknowledge your mandatory reconsideration request and review your case. A different decision maker will look at your claim and either uphold or change the original decision. There is no set time limit for mandatory reconsideration but most are completed within a few weeks.
If the DWP upholds their original decision you will receive a mandatory reconsideration notice. You then have one month to appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal — an independent and free service. Many appeals are successful at tribunal stage, particularly for PIP and ESA decisions.
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How do I appeal a benefits decision?
Request a mandatory reconsideration — a formal request for the DWP to review their decision. You must do this before appealing to tribunal. Write a formal letter explaining why you disagree and include any supporting evidence. You generally have one month from the decision letter date.
How long do I have to appeal?
One month from the date of the decision letter to request a mandatory reconsideration. If you miss this you can still request one but must explain why you are late. After the reconsideration outcome you have one month to appeal to tribunal.
What is a mandatory reconsideration?
A formal request for the DWP to look at their decision again before you can appeal to an independent tribunal. A different decision maker reviews your case and either upholds or changes the original decision.
What happens if my mandatory reconsideration is refused?
You can appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal — an independent and free service. You must appeal within one month of the mandatory reconsideration notice. Many appeals are successful at tribunal stage.
Do I need a solicitor to appeal?
No. Citizens Advice and local welfare rights organisations can help for free. A well-written formal letter setting out your grounds clearly is often sufficient for a mandatory reconsideration.
This guide is for general information only. LetterSure letters are personal correspondence drafts and do not constitute legal advice. For legal matters consult a qualified solicitor at solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk.