What is a mandatory reconsideration?
A mandatory reconsideration is when you ask the DWP to look again at a benefit decision you think is wrong. You normally have one month from the date on the decision letter to request it, it is free, and it is the required first step before you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
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A mandatory reconsideration is when you ask the DWP to look again at a benefit decision you think is wrong. You normally have one month from the date on the decision letter to request it, it is free, and it is the required first step before you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
Last reviewed: July 2026 · Written in plain English, checked against gov.uk · Information only, not legal advice
Mandatory reconsideration: the essentials
- What it isA request for DWP to review a benefit decision
- Deadline1 month from the decision letter date
- CostFree
- Applies toUniversal Credit, PIP, ESA, and many others
- Next stepAppeal to a tribunal if still unhappy
How do I ask for a mandatory reconsideration?
You can ask by phone, in writing, or using form CRMR1, quoting the decision date and explaining why you think it is wrong — ideally with any evidence, such as medical letters, that supports your case. Do it within one month of the decision letter. If you are outside the month but have a good reason (like illness or bereavement), you can still ask, up to a maximum of 13 months. Getting it in early, with clear reasons, gives the strongest chance of the decision changing.
What happens during and after a reconsideration?
A different DWP decision-maker looks at your case again and issues a 'Mandatory Reconsideration Notice' with the outcome — the decision may be changed in your favour, changed against you, or kept the same. If you disagree with that outcome, you can appeal to an independent tribunal (HM Courts & Tribunals Service) within one month of the notice. Tribunals overturn a significant proportion of PIP and ESA decisions, so an unfavourable reconsideration is not the end of the road.
Should I keep claiming while I wait?
For most benefits, asking for a reconsideration does not stop your other benefits, and in some cases you can ask for a benefit to continue at a certain rate while a decision is reviewed or appealed. Because the rules differ between benefits, it is worth getting free advice from Citizens Advice or a welfare rights service, who can also help you word the reconsideration request and gather evidence.
What happens if you ignore it?
If you do not ask for a mandatory reconsideration within the time limit, the decision usually stands and you lose the straightforward route to challenge it — you cannot go straight to a tribunal without one. Given that many benefit decisions are overturned on reconsideration or appeal, missing the one-month window can mean losing money you were entitled to. If a decision affects your income and you think it is wrong, requesting a reconsideration quickly is almost always worthwhile.
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How long do I have to ask for a mandatory reconsideration?
One month from the date on the decision letter. You can ask later (up to 13 months) if you have a good reason, but the sooner the better.
Do I need one before I can appeal?
Yes. You must have a Mandatory Reconsideration Notice before you can appeal a benefit decision to a tribunal.
Does it cost anything?
No. Requesting a mandatory reconsideration is free, and so is appealing to the tribunal.
Official sources & free help
For the full detail — and free, independent advice — see: