The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is currently processing significant lump sum backpayments for claimants across twenty major benefits. This move follows successful mandatory reconsiderations, where initial decisions on claims have been overturned.
What Are Mandatory Reconsiderations?
If you disagree with a DWP decision regarding your benefits or child maintenance, you have the right to request a 'mandatory reconsideration'. This process asks the department to look at the decision again. It is a crucial step before you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
The issue was raised in the House of Commons by Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart. She questioned the government on the financial and emotional impact these reconsiderations have on people, and what is being done to ensure they are completed promptly.
Government Response and Payment Details
Responding for the government, DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms explained the process. "Mandatory reconsideration offers claimants the opportunity to challenge decisions and provide additional information which may be relevant to their claim," he stated.
He confirmed a key point for claimants: "Entitlement is usually from the date of claim, so if a decision is changed at mandatory reconsideration, the amount awarded will be the same as if it were awarded at the initial decision stage." This means any owed money is paid as a lump sum covering the period from the original claim date.
To address delays, Sir Stephen Timms added, "We are allocating more decision makers to mandatory reconsiderations to ensure decisions are made in as timely a manner as possible."
Full List of Benefits Eligible for Reconsideration
You can ask for a mandatory reconsideration if you believe a mistake was made or vital evidence was missed in your claim for any of the following benefits and schemes:
- Attendance Allowance
- Bereavement Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Carer’s Credit
- Child Maintenance (Child Support)
- Compensation Recovery Scheme (including NHS recovery claims)
- Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Funeral Expenses Payment
- Income Support
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Maternity Allowance
- National Insurance credits
- Pension Credit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Sure Start Maternity Grant
- Universal Credit (including advance payments)
- Winter Fuel Payment
This process is vital for ensuring claimants receive the correct amount of support they are legally entitled to. If you think a decision on your claim is wrong, you should act promptly to request a mandatory reconsideration.
