Quick answer: You normally have one month from the date of the decision to ask. If you are still unhappy after the reconsideration, you can appeal.
If you think a Universal Credit, PIP or other benefit decision is wrong, you can ask for it to be looked at again. It is free.
Key points
- You usually need to ask within one month of the date of the decision.
- You can ask after a month if you have a good reason, such as a hospital stay or a bereavement.
- It covers benefits including Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, Carer's Allowance and Pension Credit. Some decisions cannot be reconsidered, and Housing Benefit and a few other benefits use different processes. Your decision letter says which applies.
- If you are still unhappy after the reconsideration, you can appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal.
Steps
- Check the date on the decision letter or in your online account.
- Write down why you think the decision is wrong, and gather evidence. Use our letter template.
- Send your request as your letter says, or in your online journal if you have one. Keep a copy and a note of the date. Use the deadline calculator to work out your date.
- Wait for the written decision and read it carefully. It tells you how to appeal.
- Get free advice from Citizens Advice, Advicenow or a local adviser before you appeal.
Limits of this guide
This is general information. Deadlines can be counted differently, so send your request early.
Questions people ask
What if I miss the one-month deadline?
You can ask late if you have a good reason, such as a hospital stay or bereavement. Explain why in your request.
Sources and official help
This guide is general information, not legal or benefits advice. Rules and amounts change, so check the official links above or speak to Citizens Advice or your council before you make a decision.