Letter Generator

Mandatory Reconsideration Letter Generator

Generate a properly structured letter to challenge a CMS decision. The tool automatically calculates your deadline — you have one calendar month from the date of the decision.

Your details

Fill in your details and the CMS decision you are challenging. The letter will be generated for you to review, copy, and send.

Your full name *

CMS case reference *

Your address *

Date of CMS decision *

Type of decision *

Describe the decision you received *

Grounds for your challenge *

What outcome are you seeking? *

What is Mandatory Reconsideration?

Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) is the first formal step to challenge a CMS decision. Before you can appeal to an independent tribunal, you must ask the CMS to review their own decision first.

If the CMS does not change the decision following MR, they will issue a "Mandatory Reconsideration Notice" — which you need before you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal.

Strict time limit

You must submit your Mandatory Reconsideration request within one calendar month of the date of the CMS decision. Miss this deadline and you may lose the right to challenge the decision.

Always send by recorded delivery so you have proof of receipt.

What happens after MR?

CMS reviews the decision

Usually within 2–4 weeks

CMS issues MR Notice

Even if unchanged — you must have this before you can appeal

Appeal to First-tier Tribunal

Must appeal within 1 month of the MR Notice date

Appealing to Tribunal

If the CMS does not change the decision after MR, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support). This is an independent court — completely free to use — and the judge can overturn CMS decisions.

–You must have received your MR Notice from the CMS first
–You have 1 month from the MR Notice to submit your appeal
–Appeals are free — there is no fee to apply
–Hearings can be in person, by phone, or by video
–You can represent yourself — legal representation is helpful but not required

How to apply:

Apply online via GOV.UK Download SSCS1 appeal form (PDF)About the First-tier Tribunal