How to appeal a PIP decision

ByThiago SF

Receiving a decision letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can bring both relief and frustration.

If your Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was refused, reduced, or awarded at the wrong rate, it doesn’t have to be the end of the process.

You have a legal right to challenge a PIP decision — and many people who do so successfully receive a better outcome.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to appeal with confidence, clarity, and the right information on your side.

1️⃣ Understanding Your PIP Decision

Before you appeal, take time to read your decision letter carefully.
It explains:

  • Whether you qualified for PIP,
  • Which components (Daily Living or Mobility) you were awarded, and
  • How many points you received in each activity area.

If you disagree with the decision — maybe because the DWP misunderstood your evidence or underestimated your condition — you can challenge it.

But the first step isn’t the tribunal. You must go through a stage called Mandatory Reconsideration.

2️⃣ Step 1: Request a Mandatory Reconsideration

A Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) is when the DWP reviews your claim again before you appeal to a tribunal.

This is a required step — you cannot skip it.

You must request it within one month of the date on your decision letter.

Here’s how to do it:

📄 Use the Mandatory Reconsideration Request Form (CRMR1) — available on GOV.UK.
📞 Or call the PIP enquiry line: 0800 121 4433 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm).
✉️ You can also write a letter to the address on your decision notice.

When submitting your MR, include:

  • The reason you disagree with the decision,
  • Any new medical evidence, and
  • Details about how your condition affects your daily life.

💡 Tip: Focus on why the decision was wrong, not just that you disagree.
Be specific — refer to examples from your daily activities that match the PIP descriptors.

3️⃣ Step 2: Appeal to a Tribunal

If your Mandatory Reconsideration doesn’t change the outcome, you can take your case to an independent tribunal.

You have one month from the date on your MR notice to start the appeal.

To begin:

The tribunal is completely independent of the DWP.

It’s run by HM Courts & Tribunals Service, and the panel usually includes:

  • A judge,
  • A doctor or medical expert, and
  • Sometimes a disability specialist.

You can choose whether to attend in person, by phone, or by video call.

4️⃣ Submitting Additional Evidence

To strengthen your appeal, submit clear, detailed, and relevant evidence.
Good examples include:

📋 Medical reports or letters from doctors, therapists, or consultants.
🗒️ Statements from people who help or care for you.
🧾 Records showing how your condition affects your daily tasks — diaries, prescriptions, appointment letters.

It’s not about quantity, but quality — evidence that directly supports your difficulties with PIP descriptors.

You can submit evidence:

  • With your SSCS1 form,
  • Or later via the online portal before your hearing date.

5️⃣ Managing the Appeal Process

Once you’ve submitted your appeal, you’ll receive an acknowledgment and can track the case online.
The waiting time for a tribunal can range from 3 to 6 months, depending on where you live and the tribunal’s workload.

During this time:

  • You can upload more evidence.
  • You’ll receive copies of DWP’s responses and evidence.
  • The tribunal will notify you of the hearing date.

On the hearing day, you’ll have a chance to explain your case in your own words.
Don’t be afraid — the panel is there to listen, not to interrogate.

💬 Tip: Bring notes, take your time to answer, and be honest about your challenges, even on “good days.”

6️⃣ Timeline and What to Expect

Here’s a general overview of how long each stage might take:

  • Mandatory Reconsideration: 4–10 weeks on average.
  • Appeal submission to hearing: 12–24 weeks (3–6 months).
  • Decision letter after hearing: Usually within a few weeks.

If you win your appeal, your PIP payments are backdated to the date of your original claim or the date of change.

More than half of all PIP appeals succeed, especially when the claimant provides strong evidence and personal examples.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ How do I request a PIP appeal?
You must first request a Mandatory Reconsideration. If you still disagree, fill the SSCS1 form or appeal online at GOV.UK.

2️⃣ How long do PIP appeals take?
Typically between 3 and 6 months, depending on your area and the tribunal’s caseload.

3️⃣ Can I get help with my appeal?
Yes. Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, or a welfare rights adviser can guide you through the process and even help you prepare statements.

4️⃣ Will I have to attend the tribunal in person?
You can choose — most hearings now offer video or telephone options, but in-person attendance may give you a stronger chance to explain your situation.

5️⃣ What happens if I win the appeal?
Your PIP will be backdated to the original decision date, and payments will be adjusted automatically.

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