Ways to challenge a universal credit decision
To challenge a universal credit decision, a claimant must first apply for a reconsideration and only then appeal to the tribunal, both within set time limits.
Notification of the universal credit decision
A decision letter on a claim for universal credit must inform a claimant that:[1]
they have a right of appeal, but only after the mandatory reconsideration stage
they have the right to request a written statement of reasons within a month of the day after the date on the decision if this has not been provided, and
the time limits that apply
Claimants have the right to an internal reconsideration of any decision by way of revision. However, there are certain decisions that cannot be appealed.[2]
Asking for a reconsideration of the decision
The first step in challenging a universal credit decision is for a claimant to request that the DWP revise it.[3] This is known as mandatory reconsideration, because it is a compulsory step before a claimant can appeal to the First-tier tribunal. An application may be made in writing, in person or by phone.[4]
The DWP's mandatory reconsideration request form can be downloaded and used. An accompanying notes document explains how to fill in the form and what happens after the form has been returned.
The DWP may treat a request for an appeal as a request for the decision to be revised.[5]
Time limits for requesting mandatory reconsideration
Dispute period
A claimant must request a revision of a decision within the dispute period. The dispute period starts on the day after the date on the decision letter and ends one calendar month later.[6] A claimant can request a written statement of reasons within a month of the day after the date of the decision if this has not already been provided.[7]
The deadline for requesting a revision is extended by 14 days if reasons are provided within one month of the day after the date on the decision letter, or otherwise 14 days from the date of the reasons being provided.[8]
Out of time requests for a reconsideration
The time limit to request a revision of a decision can be extended up to 12 months where:[9]
a claimant has requested an extension of time
a claimant explains why they were unable to comply with the one month time limit
the DWP thinks this it is reasonable to grant an extension
the DWP judges that there were special circumstances which meant the applicant could not have requested the revision in time
'Any time' revisions
Some decisions are not subject to a time limit for revision and can be requested at any time.
The main grounds for an 'any time' revision include cases where:[10]
there has been an official error
a mistake about or ignorance of facts has led to a claimant being overpaid
another benefit has been awarded which affects the original claim
the decision made is one which cannot be appealed
Refusal to allow out of time request
There is no right to appeal if the DWP refuses to revise a decision because a claimant is out of time.
A claimant could ask for a judicial review of the DWP's refusal to reconsider. This is subject to the particular rules on judicial review.
Time limit for mandatory reconsideration of decisions by DWP
There is no time limit for the DWP to complete its reconsideration of a decision. The government has said that the time will vary depending on the circumstances of the case.[11]
Mandatory reconsideration notice
The DWP sends a claimant a mandatory reconsideration notice if it upholds its original decision.
The notice must set out the DWP's reasons for its decision and inform a claimant of their right to appeal.
If no reasons have been provided, a claimant can request a written statement of reasons within one month. This should be provided within 2 weeks.[12]
Appealing to the First-tier Tribunal
A claimant can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal if the DWP upholds its original decision.
The claimant appeals by sending a notice of appeal form SSCS1 direct to HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS), together with the mandatory reconsideration notice, the statement of reasons if the claimant has received one and any other documentation not already sent to the DWP.[13] This is called a direct lodgement of appeal.
Certain decisions do not carry the right to appeal. These are mainly decisions covering the administration of Universal Credit.[14]
Time limit for lodging an appeal
A claimant should normally lodge an appeal within one calendar month of being sent the mandatory reconsideration notice.[15]
Where an appeal is made to the First-tier Tribunal outside the one month time limit, a claimant must include a request for an extension of time and the reason it is late.[16]
The maximum extension is up to 13 months after the date of the mandatory reconsideration notice. It is usually granted if neither the DWP nor any other respondent objects. The Tribunal has the power to grant an extension even if there is an objection.[17]
Who can appeal
The First-tier tribunal can accept an appeal from:[18]
the claimant
an appointee when a claimant has died subsequent to their claim
an appointee when a claimant is unable to act on their own behalf
a person who claims Personal Independence Payment on behalf of another due to terminal illness
anyone, including the landlord, from whom the the authority decides to recover an overpayment
Last updated: 19 March 2021