Understanding Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit designed to help with the extra costs faced by people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It’s aimed at children under 16 in the UK who need additional care or have mobility needs due to their physical or mental health. Understanding what DLA covers is essential before considering an appeal, as it helps you assess whether the decision about your claim was made correctly.

DLA is split into two main components: the care component and the mobility component. The care component is for those who need help with personal care, such as washing, dressing, or eating. The mobility component is for those who have difficulty getting around. Each component is paid at different rates depending on the level of support needed. Knowing which part of DLA you are claiming for – and why – can help you gather the right evidence if you need to challenge a decision.

Before starting an appeal, it’s important to be clear about the eligibility criteria and what the benefit is intended to support. This will help you understand whether your circumstances fit the rules set out in law and guidance. For a full overview of the benefit, including who can claim and what it covers, see Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

If you think your DLA decision is wrong – whether your claim was refused, or your award was lower than expected – it’s a good idea to learn about the appeals process and your rights. For practical advice and detailed information on how to appeal, including steps like mandatory reconsideration and what to expect at a tribunal, visit DLA appeals – Citizens Advice.

Taking the time to understand DLA and the rules around it will put you in a stronger position if you decide to challenge a decision. If you’re not sure whether your situation qualifies, or what evidence you might need, these resources offer helpful guidance to get you started.

When and Why to Appeal a DLA Decision

When and Why to Appeal a DLA Decision

If you’ve applied for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and received a decision you disagree with, you may be able to appeal. Common reasons for appealing include having your claim refused, being awarded a lower rate than expected, or experiencing a reduction in your existing payments. Sometimes, decisions are made because the evidence provided did not fully explain your needs, or because the decision-maker misunderstood your situation.

Before you begin the appeals process, it’s important to check whether you meet the DLA eligibility criteria. Carefully reviewing your eligibility can help you understand if the original decision was correct or if there’s a strong basis to challenge it. Accurate, up-to-date information about who can claim and what evidence is needed can be found by looking at the eligibility criteria for DLA provided by Disability charity Scope UK.

Double-checking your original application is also crucial. Make sure all details about your or your child’s condition, daily care needs, and mobility difficulties were included and clearly explained. Mistakes or missing information in your application can affect the outcome, so correcting these before appealing can strengthen your case.

A DLA decision can have a significant impact on your finances and access to support. DLA is designed to help with the extra costs of disability, so if your claim is refused or your payments are reduced, it may affect your ability to pay for necessary care or mobility aids. Appealing could mean you receive the right level of support for your needs.

Understanding your eligibility and ensuring your application is accurate are key steps before starting an appeal. If you decide to move forward, you’ll need to follow the official process, starting with a mandatory reconsideration. Taking the time to gather supporting evidence and clearly explaining your circumstances will give you the best chance of a successful outcome.

Can you help me check if I qualify to appeal my DLA decision?

Steps to Appeal a DLA Decision

Steps to Appeal a DLA Decision

If you disagree with a decision about your Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – whether your claim has been refused, your payments have been reduced, or your award period has changed – you have the right to challenge it. The appeal process involves a series of steps designed to ensure your case is reviewed fairly. Here’s how to get started:

1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration

The first step in appealing a DLA decision is to ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to look at your claim again. This is called a mandatory reconsideration. You must request this within one month of the date on your decision letter. If you miss the deadline, you should explain the reasons for the delay, as late requests may still be accepted in some circumstances.

To request a reconsideration, you can:

  • Fill in and return the mandatory reconsideration form sent with your decision letter,

  • Write to the address on your decision letter,

  • Or call the DWP using the contact details provided.

When making your request, clearly state why you think the decision is wrong. Include any new evidence or information that supports your case, such as medical reports, letters from carers, or updated details about your condition. The more relevant information you provide, the stronger your case will be.

For a detailed guide on what to include and how the process works, visit the mandatory reconsideration process.

2. What Happens Next?

After you submit your request, the DWP will review your claim and any new evidence. They may contact you for more information. You’ll receive a mandatory reconsideration notice explaining whether the original decision has been changed or remains the same.

If the DWP changes their decision in your favour, your appeal ends here. If not, you still have the right to take your case further.

3. Appeal to an Independent Tribunal

If you’re still unhappy after the mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. This tribunal is separate from the DWP and will look at all the evidence before making a decision.

To start your appeal, you’ll need your mandatory reconsideration notice. Submit your appeal form (SSCS1) to Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) within one month of the date on your notice. Clearly explain why you think the DWP’s decision is wrong and provide any supporting documents.

4. Preparing for Your Tribunal Hearing

Preparing well can make a big difference at your tribunal hearing. Here are some practical tips:

  • Gather Evidence: Collect up-to-date medical reports, care diaries, or letters from people who support you.

  • Review Your Application: Go over your original claim and the reasons for the DWP’s decision. This will help you address any misunderstandings or gaps.

  • Plan What to Say: Be ready to explain how your condition affects your daily life, using real examples.

  • Ask for Support: You can bring a representative, friend, or family member to the hearing for support.

Tribunal hearings can feel daunting, but remember, the panel is there to make an independent decision based on the facts. They will listen to your side of the story and consider all evidence before making a final decision.

If you’re new to the process or want to understand how DLA claims are made in the first place, see our guide to the DLA application process.

By following these steps, you can ensure your DLA appeal is handled thoroughly and fairly.

How do I prepare the best evidence for my DLA appeal?

Requesting a Mandatory Reconsideration

Requesting a Mandatory Reconsideration

If you disagree with a decision about your Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the first step is to ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to review it. This process is called a mandatory reconsideration. You must go through this stage before you can appeal to a tribunal.

How to Ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration

To request a mandatory reconsideration, you need to contact the DWP and ask them to look at your DLA decision again. You can do this by:

  • Calling the phone number on your decision letter,

  • Writing a letter explaining why you think the decision is wrong, or

  • Filling in and sending the mandatory reconsideration form, if one was provided.

When you contact the DWP, make sure you clearly state that you are requesting a "mandatory reconsideration" of your DLA decision.

For more details about the DWP and how to contact them, visit the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Time Limits for Requesting Reconsideration

You usually have one month from the date on your DLA decision letter to ask for a mandatory reconsideration. If you miss this deadline, you can still ask for a reconsideration up to 13 months after the decision, but you must explain why your request is late. The DWP may accept a late request if you have a good reason, such as illness or bereavement, but they do not have to.

What to Include in Your Request

To give yourself the best chance of success, include as much relevant information as possible in your mandatory reconsideration request:

  • Explain clearly why you think the decision is wrong. For example, if you believe the DWP underestimated your care or mobility needs, describe how your condition affects your daily life.

  • Provide new evidence if possible. This could include letters from your doctor, care plans, or statements from people who help you.

  • Refer to specific parts of the decision you disagree with. If the decision letter mentions certain facts or medical reports, address these directly.

  • Keep copies of everything you send. It’s a good idea to send your request by recorded delivery if posting.

The DWP will review all the information you provide and send you a new decision, called a "mandatory reconsideration notice." If you are still unhappy with the outcome, you can then appeal to an independent tribunal.

If you need further guidance or want to understand more about the DWP’s role in the process, you can find official information on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) website.

How do I write a strong mandatory reconsideration request?

Taking Your Case to a Tribunal

Taking Your Case to a Tribunal

If you’ve received a mandatory reconsideration notice and your Disability Living Allowance (DLA) decision hasn’t changed, you have the right to appeal to an independent tribunal. This next step gives you the chance to have your case reviewed by a panel that is separate from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

How to Appeal to a Tribunal

To start your appeal, you must submit a form called SSCS1, either online or by post, to Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS). You’ll need to include your mandatory reconsideration notice, explain why you think the decision is wrong, and provide any supporting evidence. There are strict time limits – usually, you must appeal within one month of getting your reconsideration decision.

What to Expect at a Tribunal Hearing

A tribunal is not a court, but it is a formal hearing where an independent panel will look at your case. The panel usually includes a judge and a doctor or disability expert. They will listen to your side of the story, review the evidence, and ask questions about how your condition affects your daily life.

Tribunal hearings can be held in person, by phone, or by video call. It’s normal to feel nervous, but the panel is there to make sure you get a fair hearing. For a detailed explanation of what happens during a tribunal hearing, Citizens Advice provides helpful guidance on what to expect and how to prepare.

Preparing Your Evidence and Representation

You can bring new evidence to the tribunal, even if you didn’t submit it before. This might include:

  • Medical reports or letters from your doctor or specialist

  • Statements from people who help care for you

  • A diary of how your condition affects your daily activities

You’re allowed to bring someone with you for support, such as a friend, family member, or representative (like a welfare rights adviser). If you want someone to speak on your behalf, let the tribunal know in advance.

Possible Outcomes of a Tribunal Decision

After hearing your case, the tribunal panel will make a decision, which could be:

  • Upholding the original decision: Your DLA remains unchanged.

  • Changing the decision: You may be awarded a higher rate, a different component, or your claim could be reinstated if it was stopped.

  • Reducing your award: In rare cases, your DLA could be reduced if the panel believes you are getting too much.

You’ll usually get the decision in writing within a few weeks. If you disagree with the tribunal’s decision, you may be able to appeal further, but only if there’s a legal reason, such as an error in how the law was applied.

For more advice on challenging DLA decisions and preparing for your hearing, visit the tribunal hearing page from Citizens Advice.

Understanding the tribunal process can help you feel more confident and prepared. If you need more information about DLA or other benefits, explore our related guides for further support.

How do I prepare the best evidence for my DLA tribunal appeal?

What to Do If Your Appeal Is Successful or Unsuccessful

What to Do If Your Appeal Is Successful or Unsuccessful

After you have appealed a decision about your Disability Living Allowance (DLA), what happens next depends on the outcome of your appeal. Whether your appeal is successful or not, it’s important to understand your options and the support available.

If Your Appeal Is Successful

If the tribunal decides in your favour, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will update your DLA award according to the tribunal’s decision. This could mean:

  • Restoring your DLA payments if they were stopped.

  • Increasing your payment amount if your DLA was reduced.

  • Backdating payments to cover the period from when your claim or previous award should have started.

The DWP should implement the tribunal’s decision as soon as possible, but it can take a few weeks for payments to be adjusted and for any backdated money to reach your account. You will receive confirmation in writing about the new decision and payment details.

If you notice any delays or errors in your payments after a successful appeal, contact the DWP directly to raise your concerns.

If Your Appeal Is Unsuccessful

If your appeal is not successful, you may feel disappointed or unsure about what to do next. However, there are still steps you can take:

1. Consider Reapplying for DLA

If your circumstances change or you have new evidence about your disability or care needs, you can make a new claim for DLA. This is especially relevant if your health condition has worsened or if you did not have all the necessary evidence at the time of your original claim. For more guidance on this process, visit reapplying for DLA.

2. Explore Other Benefits

Depending on your age and circumstances, you might be eligible for other benefits. For example, most people aged 16 or over now need to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead of DLA. Understanding the differences between DLA and PIP can help you decide which benefit is right for you. You may also find it helpful to read a detailed comparison of PIP vs DLA to understand your options if you need to make a new application.

3. Seek Further Advice and Support

You have the right to ask the tribunal for a “statement of reasons” if you believe a legal mistake was made in your case. In rare cases, you may be able to appeal to the Upper Tribunal, but this is only possible if there was an error in law. Consider getting advice from a welfare rights adviser or a local support organisation if you’re unsure about your next steps.

Understanding Alternative Support

If your DLA appeal is unsuccessful, it’s important not to give up. Many people find they are eligible for other forms of support, such as PIP or other disability-related benefits. Take time to review your situation and seek advice on what you may be entitled to. Information and guidance are available to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the support you need.

Remember, you are not alone – there are resources and organisations ready to help you understand your rights and the benefits available. If you need more information about appeals, the process of reapplying, or alternative benefits, take advantage of the links provided above and reach out for support.

Can I appeal again or apply for other benefits after my DLA appeal fails?

Additional Support and Related Benefits

Additional Support and Related Benefits

If you are appealing a decision about Disability Living Allowance (DLA), it’s important to know about other types of support that may be available to you and your family. Changes to your DLA can affect your finances, living arrangements, and even your rights at work. This section explains related benefits, support for carers, help with housing, and your legal protections in the workplace.

Other Disability Benefits

Beyond DLA, there are several other disability benefits you may be eligible for, depending on your circumstances. These can include Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for those aged 16 to State Pension age, and Attendance Allowance for people over State Pension age. Each benefit has its own eligibility criteria, so it’s worth exploring all the options to ensure you’re receiving the support you’re entitled to.

Carers’ Allowance

If someone provides regular care for you because of your disability, they might qualify for Carers’ Allowance. This benefit is designed to support people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives certain disability benefits, including DLA. The rules about who can claim are quite specific, so it’s helpful to review the criteria carefully.

For more detailed information, the carers allowance page from Scope UK offers clear guidance on eligibility and how to apply.

Housing Assistance

A change in your DLA – such as a reduction or stop in payments – can impact your ability to pay rent or manage other housing costs. If this happens, you may be able to access housing assistance to help you stay in your home or find suitable accommodation. This can include Housing Benefit, support with council tax, or help from your local authority. It’s important to seek advice as soon as possible if you are worried about your housing situation following a DLA appeal decision.

Rights at Work and Disability Discrimination

If your DLA appeal is linked to your employment situation, or if you face challenges at work because of your disability, you have legal rights under the Equality Act 2010. Employers must make reasonable adjustments to help disabled employees and must not discriminate against you because of your disability or benefit status. If you believe you have experienced workplace discrimination, there are steps you can take to address this, including raising the issue with your employer or seeking further legal advice.


Understanding all the support available can make a big difference when appealing a DLA decision. For more information, explore the linked resources above or seek advice from a qualified benefits adviser.

What other benefits can I claim alongside my DLA appeal?

Further Resources and Next Steps

Further Resources and Next Steps

Appealing a Disability Living Allowance (DLA) decision can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you have rights and options. If your claim has been refused, or your payments have been reduced or stopped, you can challenge the decision through a mandatory reconsideration and, if needed, appeal to an independent tribunal. Make sure to read any decision letters carefully and keep copies of all correspondence.

If you need help understanding the appeals process or want advice on what to do next, several organisations can offer support:

  • Citizens Advice: Provides free, confidential advice on benefits, including help with DLA appeals and preparing for tribunals.

  • Disability Rights UK: Offers detailed factsheets and guidance on DLA and other disability benefits.

  • Scope: Supports disabled people and their families, including guidance on benefits and appeals.

  • Local welfare rights services: Many councils and charities offer support with benefits appeals – search for services in your area.

It’s also a good idea to review related topics to make sure you understand all your options. If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements for DLA, check our guide on DLA eligibility. If you want to know more about how to start a claim, see the DLA application process. For those considering if DLA or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is right for them, our DLA vs PIP comparison explains the differences.

Taking the next step can make a real difference. Don’t hesitate to seek advice or support – many people successfully challenge DLA decisions and secure the help they’re entitled to.


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