If you disagree with a PIP decision, a Mandatory Reconsideration is your first step to challenging it. Here’s how to give yourself the best chance of success.
What Is a PIP Mandatory Reconsideration?
An MR asks DWP to look at a PIP decision again. A different decision maker reviews:
- The original assessment report
- Any new evidence you provide
- Your reasons for disagreeing
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Time limit | 1 month from decision date |
| Cost | Free |
| Who reviews | A different DWP decision maker (not the original assessor) |
| Success rate | ~20-25% |
| Required before tribunal? | Yes — you must complete MR first |
When to Request an MR
You can challenge:
- A new claim that was refused entirely
- Points scored being too low (you think you should score higher)
- Getting standard rate when you think you qualify for enhanced
- An existing award being reduced at review
- An existing award being ended at review
- The length of your award period
Time Limits
| Situation | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Standard | 1 calendar month from the date on your decision letter |
| Late request (with good reason) | Up to 13 months from the decision |
| Good reasons for late request | Illness, hospitalisation, didn’t receive the letter, bereavement |
How to Request an MR
By Phone (Quickest)
- Call the PIP enquiry line: 0800 121 4433
- State: “I want to request a Mandatory Reconsideration of my PIP decision dated [date]”
- Explain briefly which activities you’re challenging
- Follow up in writing with evidence
In Writing (Most Thorough)
Write to the DWP address on your decision letter. Include:
Your letter should contain:
- Your name and National Insurance number
- The decision date you’re challenging
- A clear statement: “I request a Mandatory Reconsideration”
- Which activities and descriptors you disagree with
- Why you think the decision is wrong
- Reference to new or existing evidence
- Any new evidence attached
Send by recorded delivery or get proof of posting.
Writing an Effective MR Request
Structure Your Letter
Section 1: Introduction
I am writing to request a Mandatory Reconsideration of the PIP decision dated [date]. My NI number is [NI number]. I disagree with the following aspects of the decision.
Section 2: Activity-by-Activity Challenge For each activity you’re disputing:
Activity [number]: [Name] The assessor scored me [X] points on descriptor [Y]. I believe the correct descriptor is [Z] because [specific explanation of your difficulties]. This is supported by [reference to medical evidence].
Section 3: Evidence Summary
I am enclosing the following new evidence: [list]. I also refer to [existing evidence already on file].
Section 4: Closing
I respectfully request that my decision is reconsidered in light of the above information and supporting evidence.
Common Points to Challenge
| Issue | What to Say |
|---|---|
| Assessor downplayed symptoms | “The report states I can [activity] unaided. However, my GP confirms [limitation]. The assessor’s observation was a snapshot of one appointment, not my typical daily experience.” |
| Report contains factual errors | “The report incorrectly states [error]. The correct position is [fact], as evidenced by [evidence].” |
| Variable condition not reflected | “The assessment was on a relatively good day. On most days (approximately [X] out of 7), I cannot [activity] at all, as confirmed by [evidence].” |
| Mental health not properly considered | “The assessor focused on physical abilities. My mental health condition ([diagnosis]) significantly affects Activities [numbers] as detailed in my CPN/therapist letter attached.” |
Evidence That Strengthens Your Case
| Source | What to Ask For |
|---|---|
| GP | Letter detailing diagnosis, how condition affects daily activities, treatment, and prognosis |
| Consultant/specialist | Report on your condition and its impact on the specific PIP descriptors |
| Mental health team | Assessment of how your condition affects social engagement, motivation, concentration |
| Physiotherapist | Assessment of mobility, standing, reaching limitations |
| Occupational therapist | Assessment of daily living capabilities |
| Social worker/support worker | Statement about observed difficulties |
| Carer/family member | Letter describing the help they provide daily |
Tip: Ask professionals to reference the specific PIP activities and descriptors in their letters. A GP letter saying “Mrs Smith has fibromyalgia and cannot cook safely due to fatigue and brain fog, scoring her on Activity 1 at a level requiring supervision” is far more useful than “Mrs Smith has fibromyalgia.”
What Happens During the MR
- Your case is assigned to a different decision maker (not the one who made the original decision)
- They review the assessor’s report, your reasons, and new evidence
- They may contact you for more information
- They issue a Mandatory Reconsideration Notice (MRN)
Possible Outcomes
| Outcome | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Decision changed fully | You receive the higher award, backdated |
| Decision partially changed | Some activities revised, increased award |
| Decision unchanged | Original decision upheld — you can appeal |
| Decision made less favourable | Rare, but possible — your award could decrease |
If Your MR Is Unsuccessful
You can appeal to an independent tribunal within one month of receiving the MRN. Tribunal appeal success rates for PIP are approximately 65-70%, making it well worth pursuing.
To appeal:
- Complete form SSCS1 (available from gov.uk)
- Attach your MRN and all medical evidence
- Write a detailed statement
- Submit within one month of the MRN date
- Consider getting free representation (Citizens Advice, Scope, Mind)