Court Guide · Sources checked 13 September 2026
Where to start
Start with the decision you want to challenge. The benefit, decision-maker and decision date determine the route. The statistics below help explain the system; your evidence and the applicable rules determine your own case.
Check the decision and reconsideration route
Keep the complete decision letter and envelope or notification. Check whether a mandatory reconsideration is required and how the decision letter says to request it. Some decisions use a different route. If a deadline is close or has passed, seek advice promptly instead of waiting for more evidence.
Prepare reasons linked to the decision
Identify what you disagree with and why. Useful material can include the decision and reconsideration notice, assessment report, relevant records and examples of how your circumstances affect the particular benefit rules. More documents are not automatically better: explain what each relevant item establishes.
Get ready for the tribunal
Read the tribunal’s directions and the response bundle. Check how to send further evidence, whether others must receive it and how the hearing will take place. Request communication support, adjustments or an interpreter in advance. Keep a short list of points and questions so you can find them during the hearing.
Find the right kind of help
A welfare-rights adviser can help identify the applicable rules and evidence. Citizens Advice, some law centres and university clinics may help, subject to their remit and capacity. Court staff can explain administration but cannot decide the merits of your appeal for you. Check whether a provider offers advice, document preparation or representation.
Find your area, provider or topic
9 resources
- SSCS appeal waiting-time contextApril–June 2025 and April–June 2026
- Attendance Allowance2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Child Support Allowance2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Disability Living Allowance2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Employment Support Allowance2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Housing/Council Tax benefit2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Pension Credits2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Personal Independence Payment2023/24–Q1 2026/27
- Universal Credit2023/24–Q1 2026/27