What to Do If Your PIP Claim Is Rejected: The Mandatory Reconsideration and Appeals Process
Unfortunately, not all PIP claims are successful on the first attempt. If you receive a decision that you disagree with, don’t worry—you have options. Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) and the appeals process are there to help you get the support you deserve.
At PIP Ready, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face a rejected claim, but we’re here to guide you through each step of the process. Let’s explore MR and how you can appeal a decision.
What is Mandatory Reconsideration (MR)?
If your PIP claim is rejected or you disagree with the rate awarded, the first step is to request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR). This means you’re asking the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to look at the decision again and review all the evidence and information you submitted.
Why request MR? The MR process allows you to challenge a DWP decision without having to go straight to court. The DWP will review your case and any additional evidence you submit. They might change their decision, award you a higher amount, or provide further clarification about why they made the original decision.
How long do you have to request MR? You must request an MR within 1 month of receiving the decision letter. It’s essential that you act quickly, as missing this deadline may affect your chances of getting the correct support.
How to Request a Mandatory Reconsideration
Here’s a simple guide to help you through the MR process:
Review the Decision: Before you request MR, carefully review the decision letter you received. Check the points that the DWP considered when making their decision. If you believe they’ve missed something, or if there are errors in the decision-making process, make a note of them.
Gather Additional Evidence: If your claim was rejected or awarded at a lower rate than expected, you might need to provide further evidence to support your case. This could include:
Additional medical reports or letters from your doctor.
Statements from family members or carers describing your limitations.
Any new information that shows how your condition affects you.
PIP Ready can assist you in gathering the appropriate evidence. We’ll guide you on what’s needed to ensure your MR request is as strong as possible.
Write Your Reconsideration Request: You’ll need to write a formal letter or request to the DWP stating why you disagree with their decision and providing your reasons for requesting the MR. In this letter, clearly explain what aspects of the decision you believe are incorrect.
At PIP Ready, we can help you craft the letter, making sure it’s clear, detailed, and focused on the points that are most likely to get the decision reconsidered.
Submit the Request: Once you’ve gathered your evidence and written your request, send it to the DWP. You can do this by post or through online channels (if available). Ensure you keep a copy of everything for your records.
What Happens After You Request MR?
Once your MR request is submitted, the DWP will review your case. This could take several weeks (typically up to 8 weeks), so it’s essential to remain patient during this period.
If your request is successful, you’ll receive a new decision letter. This letter will explain any changes to your award, including whether your PIP rate is adjusted or if they’ve upheld the original decision.
If the DWP maintains their decision after the MR, you have the option to appeal further.
What Is the PIP Appeal Process?
If you’re still unhappy with the decision after MR, you can take your case to a Tribunal. This is the second stage of challenging the DWP’s decision and is a legal process conducted by an independent tribunal panel.
How long do you have to appeal? If your MR is unsuccessful, you have 13 months from the date of the MR decision letter to submit an appeal. Similar to MR, acting quickly is key to ensuring your appeal is heard.
How to start the appeal: To start the appeal process, you must fill out an SSCS1 form (available from the tribunal service) and submit it to the HM Courts & Tribunals Service. You will also need to explain why you disagree with the decision and what evidence supports your claim.
The tribunal hearing: The appeal hearing usually takes place at an independent tribunal, which is different from the DWP. The panel will review your case, listen to your arguments, and ask questions to clarify anything they need to understand better. You can bring someone to help you at this hearing, such as a family member, friend, or legal representative.
How PIP Ready Can Assist with the MR and Appeal Process
PIP Ready is here to support you through the Mandatory Reconsideration and appeal process. Here's how we can help:
Review the Decision Letter: If you’ve received a PIP decision you disagree with, we’ll help you understand why it was made and whether it’s worth requesting MR. If so, we’ll guide you through the next steps.
Help with Gathering Additional Evidence: If your MR requires additional medical reports or evidence, we’ll help you collect the right documentation to strengthen your case. Our team is familiar with what works best and can ensure that your evidence is comprehensive.
Prepare Your MR Request: Writing a clear and effective MR request is vital for your success. PIP Ready can assist with drafting the request, ensuring that all relevant points are covered, and that your case is presented clearly and persuasively.
Appeal Support: If your MR is unsuccessful and you decide to proceed with an appeal, we’ll be by your side. We can help with completing the appeal forms, gathering additional supporting evidence, and preparing you for the tribunal hearing.
Final Thoughts
Facing a PIP claim rejection can be frustrating, but you don’t have to navigate the Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) and appeals process alone. PIP Ready is here to help you challenge a decision that you feel is unfair.
From drafting your MR request to preparing for the tribunal hearing, we provide full support to help you get the PIP benefits you deserve.
Contact us today to find out how we can assist you with your PIP claim, and let us take the stress out of the process for you.
