Personal Independence Payment (PIP) How to Request a Reconsideration
When the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) decides that you are not eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or awards you a lower rate than you believe you deserve you have the right to ask the decision to be reviewed. This review is called a reconsideration. The process can feel daunting, but knowing what to expect and how to prepare can improve the chances of a successful outcome.
When to Request a Reconsideration
A reconsideration must be requested within one month of receiving the DWPs decision letter. If you miss the deadline, you may still be able to appeal, but you will need to show why the time limit was not met.
What a Reconsideration Involves
During a reconsideration the same decisionmaker who originally assessed your claim will look at the evidence again. They cannot change the original assessment method, but they can:
- Take into account any new medical evidence you provide.
- Correct any factual errors (e.g., missed appointments, misrecorded daily activities).
- Interpret the existing evidence in a different way.
The DWP does not automatically reinterview you, but you can request a facetoface meeting if you feel that would help explain your situation.
StepbyStep Guide to Submitting a Reconsideration Request
1. Read the Decision Letter Carefully
The letter will explain:
- The specific reasons for the decision.
- The points of evidence the DWP considered.
- The deadline for requesting a reconsideration.
Highlight any statements that you think are wrong or incomplete these will become the focus of your request.
2. Gather Supporting Evidence
Evidence can include:
- Recent medical reports, specialist letters, and test results.
- Daily activity logs a detailed diary of what you can and cannot do, written over a typical week.
- Statements from family, carers, or support workers who witness the impact of your condition.
- Any photographs, videos, or recordings that illustrate the difficulty of a task (e.g., a video showing you trying to get dressed).
Make sure each piece of evidence is dated and clearly labelled.
3. Write Your Reconsideration Letter
Structure the letter clearly:
- Header Your name, address, National Insurance number, and the PIP claim reference.
- Reference to the decision State the date of the decision letter and the outcome you are challenging.
- Grounds for reconsideration Explain why the decision is wrong. Use bullet points and reference specific parts of the decision letter.
- New evidence List each document you are attaching and explain briefly how it supports your case.
- Request for a facetoface meeting (optional) If you feel a meeting would help, ask for it.
- Signature and date.
Keep the tone respectful and factual; avoid emotional language that does not relate to the evidence.
4. Send the Request
Send your letter and all supporting documents to the address shown on your decision letter. It is advisable to send it by recorded delivery or another trackable service, keeping a copy for yourself.
Do not forget to keep a log of what you have sent, including dates and the method of postage.
5. Await the Response
The DWP aims to respond within six weeks. If they need more time, they will write to you explaining why. You will receive one of three outcomes:
- Decision confirmed The original decision stands.
- Decision changed You receive PIP, possibly at a different rate.
- Further evidence needed You are asked to provide additional documentation before a final decision is made.
What to Do If the Reconsideration Is Unsuccessful
If the decision is confirmed, you still have the right to appeal to an independent tribunal. The appeal process begins by completing an Mandatory Reconsideration Notice (MRN) form, which you should already have received with the decision letter. The appeal must be lodged within one month of the reconsideration outcome.
Practical Tips for a Strong Reconsideration
- Start early. Give yourself enough time to obtain recent medical reports.
- Be specific. Quote exact sentences from the decision letter that you disagree with.
- Use plain language. Explain how your condition affects daily living and mobility activities listed in the PIP criteria.
- Provide context. If you have fluctuating symptoms, describe typical good and bad days.
- Stay organised. Number each piece of evidence and reference it in your letter.
- Seek help. Charities such as Citizens Advice, Turn2Us, or disability advocacy groups can review your draft.
Common Reasons for a Successful Reconsideration
While each case is unique, many successful reconsiderations share one or more of the following factors:
- New medical evidence that was not available at the time of the original assessment.
- Evidence that demonstrates the impact of the condition on activities that were previously overlooked (e.g., managing medication, cooking, or using transport).
- Correction of factual errors, such as an incorrect description of your daily routine.
- A clear, wellstructured diary that quantifies the time taken to complete tasks.
Resources and Links
These organisations provide free advice and templates:
Final Checklist Before Sending
- Have you sent the request within one month of the decision letter?
- Is your letter addressed correctly and includes your claim reference?
- Have you attached all new evidence and clearly marked each document?
- Did you request a facetoface meeting if you think it will help?
- Did you keep copies of everything you send?
Following these steps will give you the best possible chance of a favourable reconsideration. Remember, the process is about presenting clear, documented proof of how your condition affects everyday life. Stay calm, stay organized, and use the support networks available to you.
Personal Independence Payment Reconsideration Request and Reference File Download Link
Personal Independence Payment Assessment Criteria and Reference File Download Link