Challenge a benefit decision (mandatory reconsideration)

Skip contents

If you disagree with the outcome

You can appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal if you think the decision in the mandatory reconsideration notice is wrong. The tribunal is supported by HM Courts and Tribunal Services (HMCTS) and is independent of government.

A judge will listen to both sides of the argument before making a decision.

You usually need to appeal within one month of the date of your mandatory reconsideration notice.

You cannot appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal until you get your mandatory reconsideration notice.

View a printable version of the whole guide

Part of Challenge and appeal a benefit decision: step by step

  1. Step 1 Find support and advice

    You can get free support and advice from:

    1. You can also seek advice from a legal adviser or solicitor

  2. Step 2 Ask for mandatory reconsideration

    1. Ask for the benefits decision to be looked at again (mandatory reconsideration)

    You normally need to do this within one month of the date on your decision letter.

  3. Step 3 Appeal the decision to a tribunal

    If you’re unhappy with the decision after mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal it to a tribunal.

    1. Appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal

  4. Step 4 Ask for the tribunal's decision to be 'set aside' (cancelled)

    If you disagree with the decision, you can ask for it to be set aside (cancelled). The decision letter from the tribunal will tell you how to do this.

  5. or Appeal the tribunal's decision

    If you think the decision was wrong for a legal reason, you can appeal to the Upper Tribunal.

    1. Appeal to the Upper Tribunal (Administrative Appeals Chamber)

  6. and Check if you can get legal aid

    You may be eligible for legal aid to help you appeal to the Upper Tribunal.

    1. Check if you can get legal aid