How long does it take to hear back from a mandatory reconsideration?
Asked by: Bruce Leffler | Last update: May 12, 2026Score: 4.4/5 (5 votes)
You can expect to wait anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a mandatory reconsideration (MR) decision, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has no official deadline, though averages are often cited as around 8 to 10 weeks, currently impacted by significant backlogs. Times vary greatly depending on the case's complexity, the DWP's workload, and if further evidence needs gathering, with some users reporting as fast as 2 weeks and others waiting 12-15 weeks or more.
How long does it take to get a mandatory reconsideration decision?
How long does it take? The DWP does not have a deadline for doing the Mandatory Reconsideration. See full definition . Some reconsiderations take two weeks, some take several months.
Is mandatory reconsideration worth it?
It's still worth asking for a mandatory reconsideration, as long as it's within 13 months of the decision. You'll need to explain your reasons for being late - for example if being ill or dealing with difficult personal circumstances meant you couldn't apply in time.
What comes after a mandatory reconsideration?
If you're unhappy with the decision after mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal it to a tribunal.
What is the success rate of the universal credit mandatory reconsideration?
The success rate for appeals about capability for work stands at over 60%.
Mandatory reconsideration
How long does a reconsideration take?
The Reconsideration process usually takes about 8-10 months, which is in addition to your initial application timeline. You first submit new or updated medical evidence to support your claim, then a new representative conducts a Disability Determination Services (DDS) review, which is really a second look.
How long do UC decision makers take for back pay?
Back payments usually only take a few weeks, many members have reported receiving the payment before they have received their uprated 4-weekly payment.
Do you still get paid during mandatory reconsideration?
If you are asking the DWP to reconsider a sanction
If you have been sanctioned, your benefit will be reduced or not paid during the mandatory reconsideration. You can ask for a mandatory reconsideration so you can challenge the decision.
What happens if reconsideration is approved?
If the claims examiners find that you should have been approved, that your denial was mistaken or inappropriate, you will be awarded your benefits. However, this is rare – only 12% to 15% of applications are approved at Reconsideration. Most likely, your application will be denied again.
What's the success rate of reconsideration?
The initial appeal, or Reconsideration, has a low SSDI appeal approval rate, typically around 13-15%. Most claimants must proceed to the next stage. Your chances of winning a disability appeal improve significantly if you get a hearing before a judge.
How many mandatory reconsiderations are successful?
At Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) stage, just 31% of claims changed in the claimant's favour. ⚖️ Tribunal outcomes: The national average success rate at tribunal in 2024-25 is around 65%. At Fightback, our success rate is consistently 88–90% at appeal.
Do I need a lawyer for reconsideration?
No, you do not need a lawyer to request a reconsideration. However, a lawyer can increase your chances of winning three times at the hearing stage. Working with a lawyer is beneficial because the lawyer will assess your case, help you gather and submit documentation, and represent you at the hearing.
How to chase a mandatory reconsideration?
use the CRMR1 mandatory reconsideration request form on GOV.UK - you'll need to download it and fill it in, then print it off and send it by post. write a letter or call the DWP - check the contact details on your decision letter.
Why would someone request a mandatory reconsideration?
You can ask for mandatory reconsideration after one month but it must be for a good reason, for example if you've been in hospital or had a bereavement. You must explain why your request is late. Call the phone number on your decision letter first.
What happens at a reconsideration hearing?
The most common type of post-trial motion is a Motion for Reconsideration in which you are asking the judge to reconsider his/her ruling and change one specific part of the court order or the court's overall ruling.
How long does an appeal take to be heard?
An appeal can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, with averages often falling between 6 to 18 months, but it varies greatly by jurisdiction (state vs. federal), case complexity, court workload, and whether oral arguments are held. Federal appeals can sometimes take longer than state appeals, while immigration or disability appeals might see timelines of 12-24 months, with factors like the judge's caseload significantly affecting the speed.
How long does a mandatory reconsideration take?
How long does mandatory reconsideration take? Although there's a one-month time limit for you to request mandatory reconsideration, there's no time limit for how long it can take the DWP or your local council to get back to you with their decision.
Why is my reconsideration taking so long?
The length of time it takes to receive the reconsideration decision is based on how quickly the examiner receives updated medical records and whether or not they decide additional questionnaires regarding activities of daily living (ADLs) or consultative examinations (CEs) are necessary.
Is it worth doing a mandatory reconsideration?
You should still ask for a mandatory reconsideration if you got the decision less than 13 months ago. PIP awards are based on what help you need with very specific activities because of your disability, illness, or treatment. Fit the difficulties you have to one of the descriptors.
What happens after reconsideration is denied?
Next Steps After a Reconsideration Denial
You must request a hearing within 60 days of receiving that notice. A hearing will allow you to present evidence, witnesses, and arguments to convince an administrative law judge that you qualify for disability benefits.
Does a mandatory reconsideration get backdated?
You'll get any benefit you're owed backdated. If the DWP don't change their decision, you can take your challenge to an independent tribunal. You can also do this if they won't let you make a late mandatory reconsideration request.
How much Universal Credit will I lose if I get carers allowance?
Your Universal Credit payment will be reduced by an amount equal to your Carer's Allowance payment. You may get an extra amount of Universal Credit for caring for someone who gets a disability-related benefit (whether you get Carer's Allowance or not). Report a change on your Universal Credit account.
Do UC pay a month behind?
Universal Credit is paid monthly, in arrears. The amount you get is based on your circumstances in the month before you get your payment. You will get your first payment of Universal Credit into your bank account around 5 weeks after you submit your claim.
How long does a decision maker at UC take?
Your completed ESA50, the medical assessment report and any other evidence you have provided is considered by a decision maker at the DWP. It may take four to six weeks after the assessment for you to receive the decision. determines whether you have 'limited capability for work related activity'.