DWP explains your options if you want to appeal PIP decision

The Government has provided guidance on the PIP (Personal Independence Payment) appeal process. If you disagree with your decision from the DWP about your PIP award, you have the option to request an appeal of the decision.

It's worth noting that before you lodge an appeal, you may have to ask the DWP to look at your decision again, in a process known as mandatory reconsideration, although in some cases you can go straight to appeal. Your decision will letter will explain what to do if you disagree with the decision and what your options are.

Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello asked the Government what steps it was taking to ensure that claimants going through the appeal process can get "face-to-face meetings".

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Justice minister Sarah Sackman provided a response. She said: "Listing appeals, including the mode of hearing, is a judicial function, and HM Courts and Tribunals Service cannot comment on decisions made by independent tribunal judiciary.

"As part of the appeal process, appellants are given the option to select the most suitable hearing types for them. This includes attending a tribunal venue for a face-to-face hearing; a video or telephone hearing; or for the appeal to be determined on the papers."

She said the DWP can also express a preference about how the appeal is processed: "The Department for Work and Pensions, as Respondent to the appeal, is also given the opportunity to express their preference for the type of hearing they would like. Most hearings are currently held in person at a tribunal venue."

She also directed the MP to some legal guidance on where hearings related to social security cases can be heard. You can lodge an appeal about your decision through the Government website.

What is PIP (Personal Independence Payment)?

PIP is a benefit that helps cover the extra costs of living with a long-term disability or health condition. The benefit includes a daily living part and a mobility part, with a lower and upper rate depending on your level of need.

These are the current weekly payment rates:

Daily living

• Lower rate -£73.90
• Higher rate - £110.40

Mobility

• Lower rate - £29.20
• Higher rate - £77.05.