FAQs about work capability assessment mandatory reconsiderations and appeal

Answers written by welfare rights advisers to the most frequently asked questioned about fit for work challenges and appeals. All answers apply equally to ESA and Universal Credit health element. 

Last updated: May 2026

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  1. Can I get Universal Credit while I am appealing my fit for work decision?
  2. Universal Credit said I was well enough to work. What should I do?
  3. How do you disagree with a UC decision?
  4. What should I put in an UC health element mandatory reconsideration letter?
  5. Can they take away the points I already have if I ask for a mandatory reconsideration? 
  6. How long does a work capability assessment (WCA) mandatory reconsideration take?
  7. What if I missed the one-month deadline to appeal a fit for work decision?
  8. Do I need a new fit note for a mandatory reconsideration of my fit for work decision?
  9. Do I need new medical evidence for a mandatory reconsideration of the decision I was fit for work?
  10. Is there any point in setting out why the decision is wrong in a mandatory reconsideration? 
  11. Do I need a lawyer for a work capability assessment tribunal?
  12. What is the success rate for work capability assessment (WCA) appeals?
  13. Can they take away the points I already have if I appeal?
  14. I have got the right UC award, but I have got the wrong number of points. Should I appeal?
  15. My condition has got worse since my work capability assessment. What should I do?
  16. I have a new condition since my work capability assessment. What should I do?
  17. The DWP said I’m fit for work but I’m not. What do I do?
  18. What is the WCA descriptors list?
  19. What is the substantial risk rule for UC?
  20. How many points for LCWRA?
  21. How do you appeal a UC fit for work decision?
  22. Can I go straight to appeal?
  23. Does it cost to appeal a benefit decision? 
  24. Who decides if my work capability assessment appeal is successful?
  25. Do I need a lawyer for a work capability assessment (WCA) tribunal?
  26. What should I wear to a work capability assessment tribunal hearing?
  27. What happens at a UC/ESA appeal video hearing?
  28. Can I bring someone with me to my work capability assessment appeal hearing?
  29. How long does a work capability assessment tribunal hearing last?
  30. What should a doctor include in medical evidence for a work capability assessment appeal?

Universal Credit help

 

Work Capability Assessment descriptors and points

Claimant commitments

UC mandatory reconsideration letter tool

UC mandatory reconsiderations advice

UC appeals

UC tribunal hearings

UC tribunal submission tool

FAQs about work capability assessments mandatory reconsiderations and appeals

UC sanctions

UC overpayments

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