I want to challenge a decision

10/03/2008

I have been turned down for Attendance Allowance, but I'm not giving up without a fight. I wish to appeal, but have no idea how to go about this. Can you please advise me? 

 

Reader from Milford Haven

 

The Benefits Doctor says: 

 

You have one month from the date on your turn down letter to challenge a decision. You have two options. Firstly, you can ask the DWP Benefits & Carers Centre to look at your claim again. The second option is to go to appeal, either straight away, or if the reconsideration decision is unsuccessful. 

 

Appeals are heard by a tribunal, which is a panel of up to three members. There are two kinds of tribunal hearing: an oral hearing (where you can attend to discuss your appeal); or a paper hearing, where you do not appear and the case is decided on written evidence. I would really recommend getting some help and advice from your local specialist benefits advice centre. They may be able to assist with your appeal, by helping you get supporting evidence and by representing you at the appeal.  

 

 

Billions of pounds in benefits go unclaimed each year by older people - often because the “system” seems confusing and demeaning.  MT‘s “Benefits Doctor” Lee Healey, the manager of leading London charity DABD (UK),  is here to help! Lee writes a “Benefits Doctor” column for Mature Times every month. You can write to him with your questions headed “Benefits Enquiries by email to: jayne.warren@maturetimes.co.uk. We cannot promise to answer all enquiries, but we will certainly do our best