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Appealing a decision

 
If you disagree with the decision made on your claim for Housing/Council Tax Benefit you have the right to:

  • ask us to explain the decision verbally or in writing
  • ask us to review the decision
  • appeal to an independent appeal tribunal.
You must make any request in writing within one calendar month from the date on which you are told about the decision.

How to appeal

There are two steps involved in the appeal process:

  1. Explanation
    You may ask for a written or a verbal statement detailing our reasons for the decision. You can also request a full breakdown of how your benefit was calculated.
  2. Review
    You must tell us why you think the decision is wrong and provide any extra details you think may be relevant. Your case will then be looked at by a separate team who will notify you of whether the original decision has been changed. If we cannot change the original decision we will prepare a submission of your case and forward it to the Appeals Service. You will be advised of this in writing.

The Appeals Service

The chairman of the local appeals tribunal, who is legally qualified, will hear your case. A copy of the papers for the appeal tribunal will be sent to you with a form, which you must return within 14 days.

You may go to the tribunal ('oral hearing') or have your case heard without you ('paper hearing' where you're represented by a solicitor, advisor or anyone else).

For more information visit the Appeals Service website.

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