The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a reminder to anyone denied benefits that they have four weeks to appeal. The process, known as mandatory reconsideration, means your case can be reconsidered and possibly overturned – if you appeal within the time frame.
Anyone denied benefits can appeal if they think the decision was wrong, a mistake was made, or evidence was overlooked. You can ask for reassessment for 20 benefits, including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payments, and Attendance Allowance.
If your application for one of the benefits is rejected you can appeal within 30 days. The application period can even be extended in exceptional circumstances, such as illness or bereavement.
During the process of appeal you will need to submit evidence and paperwork, and the DWP will then give you a new decision. If the answer is still ‘no’, you can lodge an appeal with a tribunal.
The DWP says if you don’t act within the time allowed it could prevent you from getting access to the assistance you need. The appeals system covers everything from Maternity Allowance and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit to Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Carer’s Allowance, and Income assistance. The system also covers the Sure Start Maternity Grant and Winter Fuel Payments.
The Department for Work and Pensions Mandatory Reconsideration process is the first step in challenging a DWP decision before taking the matter to a tribunal.
You can lodge a reconsideration request in writing, over the phone, or online (for certain benefits). It’s essential for claimants to explain why they believe the decision is incorrect and provide any supporting evidence.
A different decision maker at the DWP will review the original decision. This individual will examine the evidence used in the initial decision, consider any new evidence, and decide whether the decision should be altered.
Claimants will receive a Mandatory Reconsideration Notice explaining the outcome. The original decision can be upheld, modified, or reversed. If the claimant still disagrees, they can appeal to an independent tribunal.
The DWP does not have a set timeframe for completing a reconsideration, but delays can happen. Claimants can reach out to the DWP for updates if it takes longer than anticipated.
Which benefits does the Mandatory Reconsideration process cover?
The Mandatory Reconsideration process applies to most DWP benefits, including (but not limited to):
- Universal Credit: Decisions about entitlement, payments, sanctions, or overpayments.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): Decisions about eligibility, rates, or duration.
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Decisions about eligibility, work capability assessments, or sanctions.
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA): Decisions about entitlement or award levels.
- Attendance Allowance: Disputes over eligibility or award levels.
- Carer’s Allowance: Decisions about eligibility or overpayments.
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA): Sanctions or entitlement issues.
- State Pension: Decisions related to claims or overpayments.
- Pension Credit: Eligibility or entitlement disputes.
- Child Maintenance: In cases where the DWP oversees maintenance arrangements.