SSCS1 — Notice of Appeal Against a Social Security Benefits Decision
The paper form used to appeal a Department for Work and Pensions decision about a social security benefit to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal. Most people in England, Scotland or Wales can now appeal online instead of using this paper form.
This is a reference summary, not the official form (SSCS1).
Do not file this page. Always download and submit the current official form from the issuing authority.
Who uses this form
People who disagree with a DWP decision about their entitlement to a benefit such as PIP, ESA, Universal Credit, Carer's Allowance, or Child Maintenance, and who have already asked for (or been told they can skip) mandatory reconsideration. Note: Northern Ireland has a separate appeals process, and decisions by Social Security Scotland are appealed separately from DWP decisions.
When to use it
Before you can appeal, you usually need to ask DWP to look at the decision again first ('mandatory reconsideration') — your decision letter will say if you can appeal straight away without this step. If you live in England, Wales or Scotland you can appeal online instead of posting the paper SSCS1 form.
Where to file
Appeal online at gov.uk, or complete and return the paper SSCS1 form as directed in your mandatory reconsideration notice.
Time limit / deadline
Appeal within one month of getting your mandatory reconsideration decision. If you appeal after a month you will need to explain why, and the appeal might not be accepted.
Court fee
Free — there is no fee to appeal a benefit decision.
Common mistakes to avoid
Appealing before getting a mandatory reconsideration, where one is required — check what your decision letter says first
Missing the one-month deadline from the date of the mandatory reconsideration decision without a good explanation for the delay
Using the paper SSCS1 form when the online appeal service is available for England, Wales and Scotland claims — you would not need to post the form or your mandatory reconsideration notice
Assuming the same process applies in Northern Ireland — it has a separate appeals system
Related Guides
Related Letter Templates
Official source
Download / view form on GOV.UK or HMCTSAlways download forms directly from official government sources. Third-party copies may be outdated.