Hi,

 If an application for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was turned down completely, or awarded at a lower rate than expected, you can still challenge the decision made by the DWP.
 
 You might believe your needs haven’t been fully recognised, or that professional evidence you provided with the PIP application hasn’t been properly considered by the DWP.

If you were awarded some PIP but you think you should have received more, seek advice from one of our disability benefit specialists before challenging the decision. This is because the DWP can look at the whole decision again and could decrease the award, as well as increase it or keep it the same.

Asking the DWP to look at the decision again is called a mandatory reconsideration (MR) 

You have one month from the date on the decision letter to request an MR. We would always advise submitting the MR request within one-month where possible, but you can submit a late request if you have a good reason, and the DWP will decide whether to accept your late request.
 

How to Request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR)
 

You can ask for an MR by phone or in writing. If you call, we recommend letting them know you will send more information in writing, rather than explaining everything over the phone.
 

When you ask for an MR, you can:
 

  • Explain why you disagree with the decision
  • Send extra evidence to support your case
     

A different decision-maker at the DWP will review everything, including any additional information you provide.
 

Tips for Strengthening Your Case
 

  • Use our guide to filling in the PIP2 claim form and look at the descriptors. These are the specific activities and points used to assess claims. Try to match your needs to the right descriptors and explain why you disagree with the DWP’s original assessment.
     
  • Add new evidence: If you didn’t include certain details or documents in the original claim, you can add them now. Supporting evidence is important and can strengthen PIP claims. We have some examples of supporting evidence to include.
     

You may also find the information on the Citizens Advice MR webpage useful.


I hope that this information is helpful. If you have further questions about challenging PIP decisions, please do let us know.