FAQs about ESA mandatory reconsiderations and appeal

Answers written by welfare rights advisers to the most frequently asked questioned about work capability assessment challenges and appeals.

Last updated: June 2026

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Can I go straight to appeal about my ESA decision?

What should I put in an ESA mandatory reconsideration letter?

Is there any point in setting out why the decision is wrong in a mandatory reconsideration?

Do I need new medical evidence for a mandatory reconsideration of the decision I was fit for work?

Do I need a new fit note for a mandatory reconsideration of my fit for work decision?

What if I missed the one-month deadline to appeal a fit for work decision?

How long does an ESA mandatory reconsideration take?

Who decides if my ESA appeal is successful?

What happens at a ESA appeal video hearing?

Can I bring someone with me to my ESA appeal hearing?

What should a doctor include in medical evidence for an ESA appeal?

ESA help

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ESA mandatory reconsideration letter tool

ESA mandatory reconsiderations advice

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FAQs about ESA mandatory reconsiderations and appeals

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