There is still time to contribute to the consultation on mandatory reconsideration.

You can request a mandatory reconsideration if you think the decision about your Benefit application is wrong. You can submit evidence you have to support this. If the DWP do not agree with you, you can then appeal the decision.

The DWP would be grateful for evidence on decision making across the benefit system. In particular, they would welcome evidence about decision making in Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and tax credit cases. They are seeking responses on the following:

1. How well does the appeals process currently function? Does mandatory reconsideration facilitate, encourage or discourage appropriate redress for claimants?
2. Is new evidence gathered in a way which is suitable for the claimant by DWP and HMRC? Could this be improved and, if so, how?
3. What are claimants’ experiences of claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) while waiting for their mandatory reconsideration notice when appealing an ESA fit for work decision?
4. Are there ways in which DWP and HMRC could make better use of evidence in making decisions on entitlement for benefits and tax credits? If so, how?
5. Could more effective communication with claimants and their advisers improve the quality of decision making? What aspects of claimant communications should the government prioritise?
6. Do you have any other general views about the quality of decision making and the role of mandatory reconsideration?

Respond by 11.45pm 15 March 2016 to: ssac.consultation@ssac.gsi.gov.uk

Committee Secretary
Social Security Advisory Committee
5th Floor, Caxton House
Tothill Street
London   SW1H 9NA