Understanding the process
If your PIP application was not successful or you received a lower award than expected, you have the right to challenge the decision. Many people who challenge are ultimately successful, so it is well worth considering. The process has two stages. First, Mandatory Reconsideration — where you ask the DWP to look at the decision again. Around 25% of Mandatory Reconsiderations result in a changed decision. Second, if the reconsideration does not change the outcome, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Around 60% of PIP tribunal appeals are successful — a notably high success rate that suggests many initial decisions do not fully reflect claimants' circumstances. The appeals process applies to all PIP decisions, including: claims that were refused entirely, claims where you were awarded a lower rate than expected, claims where your award was reduced at a review, and claims where your award was removed. The same process applies to Attendance Allowance, ESA, and other DWP benefits.
Stage 1: Mandatory Reconsideration
You have 1 month from the date on your decision letter to request a Mandatory Reconsideration. You can do this by calling the PIP disputes line on 0800 121 4433 or by writing to the address on your decision letter. It is often best to do both — call to register your intention, then follow up in writing with your detailed reasons. In your Mandatory Reconsideration request, explain clearly and specifically why you believe the decision does not reflect your situation. Reference the specific PIP activities and descriptors where you believe you were scored incorrectly. For example: "I was scored 0 points for 'preparing food', but I am unable to safely use a cooker due to my tremor and cognitive difficulties. I rely on my daughter to prepare all my hot meals." Include any new evidence you have gathered since your assessment. This is a crucial opportunity to strengthen your case. The Mandatory Reconsideration is conducted by a different DWP decision-maker who reviews the original evidence plus anything new you provide. If successful, the decision is changed without needing to go to tribunal.
Gathering additional evidence
The quality of evidence is often the deciding factor in a successful challenge. The most valuable evidence comes from medical professionals and people who see you regularly. Medical evidence: Ask your GP for a letter specifically describing how your conditions affect your ability to carry out daily activities and mobility. Hospital consultant letters, specialist reports, physiotherapy assessments, occupational therapy reports, and mental health assessments are all valuable. A letter from your GP is often the single most impactful piece of evidence. Personal evidence: A care diary recording the help you need each day over 1–2 weeks provides powerful, concrete evidence. Note what you struggled with, who helped you, how long tasks took, and what happened on your worst days. Letters from family members, carers, friends, or support workers who witness your daily difficulties can provide an independent perspective. Photos of adaptations to your home (grab rails, shower seats, stairlifts) demonstrate the practical impact of your condition.
Stage 2: Appeal to a tribunal
If the Mandatory Reconsideration does not change the decision, you can appeal to an independent tribunal within 1 month of receiving the Mandatory Reconsideration Notice. Complete form SSCS1 — available online at GOV.UK or by post. The form asks you to explain which parts of the decision you disagree with and why. The tribunal panel typically consists of three members: a judge (who chairs the panel), a medical member (a doctor), and a disability-qualified member (someone with experience of disability). They will review all your evidence afresh — they are not bound by the DWP's assessment and make their own independent decision. Before the hearing, you will receive a copy of the DWP's response to your appeal. Read this carefully — it explains the DWP's reasoning for maintaining their decision. You can submit additional evidence or written statements at any time before the hearing. The tribunal can increase, maintain, or (rarely) decrease your award.
Preparing for the tribunal hearing
Hearings are usually held in person at a local tribunal centre, though telephone and video hearings are also available. The atmosphere is informal — it is not like a courtroom. There is no cross-examination or adversarial questioning. The panel members will ask you questions conversationally about how your condition affects your daily life. Prepare by reviewing each PIP activity and thinking about specific examples. Describe your worst days and be honest about variation — tribunals understand that conditions fluctuate. If some days are better than others, explain the pattern (for example, "approximately 3–4 bad days per week"). Use specific, measurable language: distances you can walk, times tasks take you, frequency of incidents. You can bring someone with you for support — a friend, family member, support worker, or representative. If you have a representative from Citizens Advice or a welfare rights service, they can present your case on your behalf. Hearings typically last 30 to 60 minutes. You will usually receive the decision in writing within a few days.
Getting free help
You do not have to go through the appeals process alone, and having professional support can significantly improve your chances of success. Citizens Advice is the most widely available source of free help. They can assist with Mandatory Reconsiderations, help you prepare tribunal submissions, and provide representation at hearings. Find your local Citizens Advice office at citizensadvice.org.uk or call the national helpline. Many local councils have free welfare rights services — sometimes called welfare benefits advice, money advice, or social welfare services. These are staffed by trained advisers who specialise in benefit appeals. Disability charities also provide specialist support: Scope (0808 800 3333), Mind (0300 123 3393), the MS Society, Parkinson's UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and many others have experienced benefits advisors. Some solicitors and law centres provide free representation under legal aid for benefit tribunal appeals.
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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.