The DWP has explained the rules around a process that could see back payments issued to benefit claimants. People on DWP or HMRC benefits such as Universal Credit, PIP and Pension Credit can apply to go through the process.
Claimants could get “lump sum” benefit payments credited to their bank account as a result. The system came to light in a Government response to a question from Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart.
The MP for Hazel Grove asked the Government what assessment there has been of “the potential impact of mandatory reconsiderations on the finances and emotions of affected people”. She also asked what the DWP does to ensure these reconsiderations are “completed in a timely manner”.
If you disagree with a benefit decision, in many cases you can request a mandatory reconsideration. If you want to do this, you need to contact the office that provides your benefits. There will be details of how to get in touch on your decision letter.
DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms provided a response to the question. He said: “Mandatory reconsideration offers claimants the opportunity to challenge decisions and provide additional information which may be relevant to their claim.”
He also shared some details about how you could get back payments if the decision is changed as a result of mandatory reconsideration. Mr Timms said: “Entitlement is usually from the date of claim, so if a decision is changed at mandatory reconsideration, the amount awarded will be the same as if it were awarded at the initial decision stage.
“Arrears are paid as a lump sum.” On the topic of making sure people get their case reviewed promptly, the minister said: “We are allocating more decision makers to mandatory reconsiderations to ensure decisions are made in as timely manner as possible.”
What information should you include when requesting a mandatory reconsideration?
When you ask for mandatory reconsideration, you need to give these details:
- Date of the original benefit decision
- Your name and address
- Your date of birth
- Your National Insurance number.
You should also explain what part of the decision you believe is wrong and why. You can send in evidence to support your line of reasoning.
Evidence could include new medical evidence, reports or care plans from medical professionals, therapists or nurses, or bank statements and payslips.
Once the relevant benefits office has reconsidered your case, you will be sent a letter called a ‘mandatory reconsideration notice’ informing you whether they have changed the decision. This notice letter will explain the reasons for the decision and the evidence it was based on.
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