Appeals and reconsidering Housing Benefit decisions
You can let us know if you disagree with a decision we have about your application for Housing Benefit decision. You can:
- ask for an explanation of the decision
- request a reconsideration if you think the decision is wrong
- appeal to an independent tribunal if you still disagree
We recommend starting with an explanation or reconsideration. This is often quicker and easier than going straight to an appeal.
Use the online form below to ask for an explanation, request a reconsideration or appeal the decision.
Appeals and reviews for Housing Benefit
Ask for an explanation
If you’re unsure about a decision or think it might be wrong, use the online form above to ask us to explain how we reached it.
We will provide a detailed written explanation of the decision. This may help resolve your concerns or identify any errors without needing further action.
Request a reconsideration
If you believe the decision is wrong, use the online form above to ask us to look at it again.
- Submit your request within one month of the decision date.
- Explain why you think the decision is incorrect.
- Include any supporting evidence.
We’ll review the decision and let you know if we’ve changed it or kept it the same.
Appeal the decision
If you are not happy with the reconsideration outcome, or prefer not to request one, use the online form above to appeal directly to an independent tribunal.
- Submit your appeal within one month of the decision date.
- Clearly state which decision you’re appealing and why you think it’s wrong.
- Include any evidence to support your case.
When you cannot appeal
Some decisions can’t be appealed, including:
- payment methods, frequency, or recipients
- Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates used
- suspension of payments
- overpayment recovery methods or amounts
- how Pension Credit or Discretionary Housing Payments are calculated
Visit the GOV.UK website to learn more on how to appeal a benefit decision.