The DWP overturns more than half of its PIP (personal independence payment) decisions when they're appealed or when claimants take them to a tribunal, statistics show.
Anyone who applies for PIP and gets turned down can ask for a mandatory reconsideration. This might be because you disagree with the DWP's initial decision, you want it looked at again, or you think the department has made a mistake or missed important evidence.
You would typically need to request a reconsideration within one month of being turned down, unless there is a good reason why you couldn't do so within a month, according to the Express.
READ MORE: PIP payments for Asthma suffers could help them claim £608 a month
When you appeal, you should explain which bit of the DWP's decision you think is wrong and present evidence, such as medical reports, facts, and examples, to back up your argument.
Citizens Advice says the best way to launch an appeal is "to use the CRMR1 mandatory reconsideration request form on gov.uk, or write a letter to the DWP explaining why you disagree with the decision".
The organisation said: "You can call the DWP to ask for a reconsideration, but it’s better to have everything in writing. If you decide to call, make sure you follow up with a letter. The contact details will be on the decision letter from DWP."
If the DWP changes its decision on appeal, your PIP payments will begin immediately, and will take effect from the date of the original decision.
Citizens Advice says: "Don’t be put off if they don’t change the decision - not many decisions are overturned at this stage. More decisions are changed after the second stage of the challenge - if your mandatory reconsideration is turned down you can appeal to a tribunal."
What do you think? Sign in and join the conversations in the comments below
