Overview
There are different ways to appeal if you disagree with a decision about benefits, tax credits or child maintenance.
How to appeal
Ask for ‘mandatory reconsideration’ before you appeal - you must usually do this within one month of the date of a decision about most benefits, tax credits or child maintenance (sometimes known as ‘child support’).
You can’t usually appeal to the tribunal if you haven’t asked for mandatory reconsideration within the time limit.
You don’t need to ask for mandatory reconsideration if you’re appealing a decision about Housing Benefit - you must contact the local council that made the decision before you appeal to the tribunal.
You must usually appeal to the tribunal within a month of the date of the mandatory reconsideration decision.
Help you can get
Contact Citizens Advice if you want help with your appeal; for example with filling in forms or going to a hearing.
You can also ask an adviser, friend, family member or lawyer to appeal on your behalf.