If you disagree with the decision made about your claim, you can challenge the decision. This is known as a ‘mandatory reconsideration’. You will need to contact the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) within one month of the decision.
How to Apply and What to Include
When you apply for a mandatory reconsideration, you will need to include:
- The date of the decision
- Your specific reasons for disagreement
- Your name, address and National Insurance number
You can apply for mandatory reconsideration through:
- Your online Universal Credit account
- Through a CRMR1 form
- A letter to the DWP
- Calling the number on the decision letter. You should continue to send a letter to the DWP.
Asking outside the one-month deadline
You can still apply for mandatory reconsideration for up to thirteen months after the decision. However, you will have to explain why you did not apply within the original one-month deadline. You will also need to explain why the decision was wrong and why it must be changed.
If you disagree with the decision after mandatory reconsideration
If you disagree with the decision after mandatory reconsideration, you can take it to an independent tribunal that will hear your side of the story.
2.28