Benefits - Remember to Appeal

Had a benefits decision go the wrong way? Remember to lodge an appeal. In most circumstances you have nothing to loose from an appeal, and appeals often win. You normally only have one month to do that though, so be quick. (There are many exceptions allowed, so consider still appealing even if outside the time limit).

For residents of Glasgow, Glasgow City Council Social Work Services Welfare Rights Unit offer a free service where they conduct the appeal on your behalf. They are very good and have an excellent record in winning appeals. They will do most everything for you, but note that independent medicals can be paid for through the legal aid scheme, so it can be worth making an appointment with a lawyer also for medical related appeals.

This online form will generate their standard appeal letter for you to print off and give to the JobCentrePlus, telling them you want the Welfare Rights Unit to handle the case for you: http://www.glasgow.gov.uk/en/Residents/GettingAdvice/WelfareRights/Appeals/LetterOfAppeal.htm . You can also phone them on 0141-287-2000, ask for Welfare Rights Unit – but they generally won’t give you any advice over the phone until they’ve got the appeal letter paperwork through.

More info at http://www.glasgow.gov.uk/en/Residents/GettingAdvice/WelfareRights/Appeals/ and http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/BeginnersGuideToBenefits/DG_10013949