I already have a decision letter

Understanding your decision letter

Your decision letter will explain the outcome of your claim, which components and rates have been awarded, the period of the award, and your rights if you disagree. Decision letters for PIP will also show the points awarded for each activity.

See our specific pages on PIP decision letters and DLA decision letters for help reading these.

If you agree with the decision

If the decision is what you expected or you are happy with the outcome, you do not need to do anything other than keep the letter safe. You will start receiving payments as described in the letter.

If you disagree with the decision

If you think the decision is wrong — for example, you believe you should have scored more points, been awarded a higher rate, or qualified when you were told you do not — you have the right to challenge it.

The first step is always mandatory reconsideration. You normally have one month from the date on the decision letter to request this. Do not miss this deadline — contact the DWP promptly if you want to challenge the decision.

See our pages on PIP mandatory reconsideration, DLA mandatory reconsideration, or Attendance Allowance mandatory reconsideration for more detail.

If mandatory reconsideration does not change the outcome

If you are still unhappy after mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. This is an independent body, separate from the DWP. See our appeals pages for PIP, DLA, or Attendance Allowance for more information.

Official source

For information on challenging decisions: GOV.UK — Mandatory reconsideration | GOV.UK — Appeal a benefit decision