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PIP

How to challenge a PIP decision

If you think your PIP decision is wrong, you can challenge it. Many decisions are changed. The key is to act quickly and explain clearly why the decision is wrong.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 2 minute read

Step 1: Mandatory reconsideration

Before you can appeal, you must ask the DWP to look at the decision again. This is called a mandatory reconsideration.

  • You must ask within one month of the date on your decision letter.
  • You can ask by phone, by letter, or using form CRMR1 from GOV.UK.
  • If you phone, follow it up in writing and keep a copy.

What to say

  • Say which activities you disagree with, and which statement you think should apply.
  • Explain why, with examples, using the "most days" and "reliability" rules.
  • Point out anything in the assessment report that is wrong or missing. Ask for a copy of the report if you do not have it.
  • Send any new evidence you have.

The DWP will send you a mandatory reconsideration notice with its new decision.

Step 2: Appeal to a tribunal

If you still disagree, you can appeal to an independent tribunal, called the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support). It is not part of the DWP.

  • You must appeal within one month of the date on your mandatory reconsideration notice.
  • You can appeal online at GOV.UK, or on form SSCS1.
  • You will need a copy of your mandatory reconsideration notice.

The hearing

A tribunal panel is made up of a judge, a doctor and a disability expert. You can take part in person, by phone or by video. The hearing is less formal than a court. The panel will ask you questions about your daily life.

Get help with your challenge

A challenge is much easier with help. Contact:

  • Citizens Advice
  • your council's welfare rights service
  • a local law centre
  • a charity for your condition

Next, see our PIP points self-check to check which statements you think should apply to you.

Common questions

Can my PIP award go down if I challenge it?

It can. When a decision is looked at again, the whole award can be reviewed, so it could go up, stay the same or go down. This is rare, but it is worth getting advice first if you already get an award you are happy with in part.

What if I missed the one month deadline?

You can still ask, up to 13 months after the decision, but you must explain why you were late, for example because you were ill. Do it as soon as you can.

Sources we used

We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.