DLA refused or awarded a lower rate: what to do next
Understand the reasons, check the deadline and prepare a focused challenge.
A disappointing decision can be difficult to read. Start by comparing the decision letter with your child’s needs, the original answers and the evidence supplied.
This guide explains Mandatory Reconsideration and the appeal route for DWP child DLA decisions in England and Wales.
Check which stage you have reached
Initial DWP decision
Usually request Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of the decision date. Follow the letter’s instructions.
Prepare a reconsideration requestReconsideration decision received
If you still disagree, normally appeal within one month of receiving the reconsideration decision.
Prepare a tribunal appealAlready late? Seek advice promptly and explain the delay. Late requests or appeals may be possible, but acceptance is not automatic. The two stages have different starting points—do not calculate the appeal window from the original decision alone.
Enquiries, waiting for reports or booking support do not automatically extend a deadline.
What may explain a refusal or lower award?
Use the actual reasons in your letter. A refusal is not always a form mistake: the authority may consider the criteria unmet, interpret evidence differently or overlook important information.
Care needs underestimated
Prompting, attention, supervision or the time involved may not be fully understood.
Same-age comparison disputed
The decision may regard the help as no more than ordinarily required by a child of that age.
Night-time needs unclear
The timing, frequency, duration or adult intervention may be insufficiently described.
Mobility criteria disputed
The decision may not accept the walking limitations or qualifying guidance and supervision needs.
Evidence lacks context
Reports may describe different settings, dates or support arrangements that need explanation.
Other eligibility conditions
Check age, duration, residence and any other issue identified in the letter.
Refusal to walk and higher-rate mobility
If the letter describes behaviour as a conscious choice, consider the evidence explaining what happens and why. But showing a link to autism or another condition does not by itself establish higher-rate mobility.
The relevant statutory route must be identified and its specific tests addressed. Seek specialist benefits advice where the mobility argument is complex.
Step 1: Mandatory Reconsideration
This asks DWP to look again at the decision and is normally required before a tribunal appeal. You can request it by phone or in writing using the details in the decision letter.
- Identify the decision. Include the child’s details and decision date.
- State what you disagree with. Identify the care or mobility finding and outcome sought.
- Explain why. Describe the qualifying needs and what the original account did not make clear.
- Reference evidence. Connect reports, records and examples to each disputed point.
- Keep records. Retain the request, attachments and notes of calls, including dates.
Do not wait for a perfect pack if time is running short. Seek advice about requesting reconsideration in time and how further evidence can be supplied. Follow DWP instructions.
Match the evidence to the disputed finding
Explain needs that existed at the relevant decision date. A later report can help describe that earlier position; a deterioration that only happened afterwards may need different advice.
Care and supervision
Record the activity, help, frequency, duration and consequences without support. Include relevant night-time needs and the same-age comparison.
Mobility
Describe actual walking difficulties or guidance and supervision outdoors. Connect the account to the relevant rate’s criteria rather than relying on diagnosis alone.
Use relevant school, medical or therapy evidence and representative diaries. Explain differences between settings accurately. More pages are not automatically better evidence.
Evidence and supporting statement guidanceStep 2: Appeal after reconsideration
If you disagree with the reconsideration outcome, you can normally appeal to the independent Social Security and Child Support Tribunal. It is separate from DWP and considers the decision under appeal.
Use the current GOV.UK appeal route or the appropriate SSCS1 form and instructions. Include the reconsideration notice where required, explain your grounds and identify the outcome sought.
Review an existing award carefully. Reconsideration or appeal can leave an award unchanged, increase it, reduce it or end it. Obtain advice about the strength of the case and implications before challenging.
Preparing for the tribunal
Understand the papers
Read the decision, your claim and the DWP response. Identify what remains disputed and reference relevant evidence.
Follow directions
Record dates and submit evidence as instructed. Do not assume documents can be sent at any time without consequences.
Prepare to explain the needs
Use clear examples of the help required at the decision date and why the requested award meets the criteria.
The tribunal will confirm the format and arrangements. A hearing may be in person, by video or by phone; some cases are considered on written evidence. Discuss participation and support needs with the tribunal.
Your child does not usually need to attend. Check the directions and ask in advance if attendance or other arrangements are being considered.
What to expect at a child DLA hearingWhere to get help
Free welfare-rights support may be available from Citizens Advice, Contact or local advice services. Choose help that understands child DLA and the disputed criteria.
School of Diversity support
We can discuss reviewing the decision and evidence, preparing a statement or grounds and organising the case. Scope and fees are agreed before work begins. Submission, hearing attendance and representation are included only where expressly agreed; an outcome cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
What if I missed the reconsideration deadline?
Seek advice promptly. Explain the delay and ask about the applicable late-request rules. If DWP refuses to accept the request, further options may exist; obtain advice rather than assuming the matter is closed.
Can I supply new evidence during an appeal?
Yes, subject to tribunal directions. Submit it promptly and explain its relevance to needs at the decision date. Ask about permission or deadlines if unsure.
How long does the process take?
Times vary. Use DWP correspondence and tribunal directions rather than relying on a guaranteed turnaround. Keep copies and follow up through the appropriate service.
Can an appeal reduce the award?
Yes. Seek advice about the implications for an existing award and the evidence supporting the requested change.
Is there a fee to challenge the decision?
Mandatory Reconsideration and lodging a benefit appeal are free. Fees for optional independent preparation or representation are separate.
Does this guide apply throughout the UK?
It describes DWP child DLA in England and Wales. Northern Ireland has a different appeal process. Scotland uses Child Disability Payment and its own challenge arrangements.
Official information: Mandatory Reconsideration and benefit appeals. Check current instructions and individual deadlines.
Related parent guides
Need help understanding the decision?
Tell us the decision date, whether reconsideration has taken place and what you disagree with. We can discuss the support available for your next stage.