We will assess your Housing Benefit claim and then send a decision in writing. You should read this carefully.
You can choose from 3 options if you disagree with our decision.
- ask us to explain our decision in more detail
- ask us to reconsider our decision
- appeal to an independent appeals tribunal
Ask us to explain our decision
If you disagree with our decision or would like further information, you can request an explanation. We will do this by phone or letter.
You must ask for this within one month from the date of the decision letter. You can contact the benefits team to request this, or complete the benefits dispute form.
Complete the benefits dispute form (PDF)
Ask us to reconsider our decision
If you disagree with our decision you can ask us to reconsider it. The decision will be looked at again by a different member of staff.
After reconsidering the decision, we will advise you in writing whether the decision has been changed or if it will stay the same.
If the decision remains the same, you then have one month to appeal our decision. This time limit may be extended by another 12 months, but only in exceptional circumstances such as serious illness.
You can contact the benefits team to request a reconsideration, or complete the benefits dispute form.
Complete the benefits dispute form (PDF)
Appeal our decision
If you want to make an appeal, you can do this straight-away, or after you have asked us to reconsider our decision.
If you have asked us to reconsider, you have one month from the date of our reconsideration to make an appeal. You cannot appeal against a decision more than 13 months after the date of our original decision letter.
If you would like to submit an appeal you must do this in writing, your appeal must be signed and you must include your reasons for appeal.
Complete the benefits dispute form (PDF)
Right of appeal
You do not have the right of appeal against some of our decisions including:
- a decision to suspend payments of benefit
- where we have used our discretion
- a decision on the amount of benefit when the amount is set by law
If you make an appeal we will let you know if you do not have the right to do so.
Help with your dispute
If you need any help or advice with your appeal or application for reconsideration you can contact the Citizens Advice Bureau, another local advice centre or a solicitor.
What happens next
Your appeal will be sent to HM Courts & Tribunals Service. They will send you a form and arrange a hearing if you request it.
You may request a decision on the papers instead of having to attend a hearing.
It may take approximately 3 to 6 months for your appeal to be heard from when it is received. Appeals in Camden are usually heard at Fox Court, 14 Grays Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HN.