DLA Mandatory Reconsideration Letter Template & Generator

If you need to challenge a refused or reduced DLA decision for your child, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong dla mandatory reconsideration should include, plus a free tool to generate yours.

What this letter needs to cover

• Request mandatory reconsideration of the DLA decision
• Describe the child's condition and how it affects them
• Identify which care and mobility needs were underestimated
• Describe the level of care and supervision needed both day and night
• Reference any medical evidence

What a mandatory reconsideration actually does

Before you can appeal a DLA decision for your child to a tribunal, you must first request a mandatory reconsideration — this asks the DWP to look at the decision again, and can result in the original decision being changed without needing to go through a full appeal at all. It's a genuinely useful first step, not just a bureaucratic hurdle.

What to include before you send it

• The decision reference and the date it was made
• Why you believe the decision doesn't reflect your child's actual care and mobility needs
• Any additional evidence not previously considered — medical letters, school reports, or specialist assessments
• Specific, concrete examples of the day-to-day support your child needs

Why specific examples matter more than general statements

Decision-makers respond to concrete, dated examples far more than general descriptions — "requires help washing and dressing every morning due to limited mobility" is much stronger evidence than "needs a lot of help." If your child's needs vary, explain this variation clearly too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a time limit for requesting a mandatory reconsideration?
Yes — you generally need to request this within one month of the decision date, though late requests can sometimes be accepted with a good reason.

What happens if the reconsideration doesn't change the decision?
You'll receive a "mandatory reconsideration notice," and you can then appeal to an independent tribunal if you still disagree with the outcome.

See our full letter template & generator library for related letters, or use our free checkers for guidance specific to your situation.