Universal Credit sanction letter builder
A free tool to write a Mandatory Reconsideration letter about a Universal Credit sanction. Answer a few plain questions about what happened, then copy or download the letter. It is information, not legal advice.
What it covers
- What actually happened, in your own words
- Whether health, disability or caring responsibilities played a part
- The one-month window for asking for a Mandatory Reconsideration
- How to send the letter, through your journal or the address on the decision letter
- Hardship payments, including that they are normally recovered from later payments
What is a Universal Credit sanction?
A UC sanction is a reduction in your Universal Credit payment if the DWP decides you did not complete an agreed work-related activity and did not have a good reason, for example missing an appointment with your work coach or not doing enough to look for work. How long it lasts depends on the sanction level, your age, any earlier sanctions and, for some levels, when you complete the required action. Check your decision letter and the DWP guidance on Universal Credit sanctions.
How do I appeal a UC sanction?
First, ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration, normally within one month of the date on your decision letter, and explain why you had a good reason. If the decision is not changed, you can appeal to an independent tribunal within one month of getting your Mandatory Reconsideration decision. See appeal a benefit decision on GOV.UK.
Can I get hardship payments during a sanction?
You may be able to get a recoverable hardship payment, but you can only apply once you have had a lower or missed Universal Credit payment because of a sanction or penalty. Conditions apply. For a sanction, it must be at the full rate (100% of your standard allowance, or 50% or more for a couple). You must have completed your work-related requirements in the 7 days before applying, and any activities you were given to end the sanction (sometimes called a compliance condition). If you have a partner, your partner must have completed theirs too, and you must both agree to getting a hardship payment. You must also show you need help with essentials such as food, heating, hygiene or housing costs not covered by Universal Credit, and that you have cut non-essential costs and looked for other help. It is usually repaid from your later Universal Credit payments once the sanction or penalty has ended. See the GOV.UK hardship payment guidance.
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Would you like a person to advise you? Free independent advice is available from Citizens Advice and local welfare rights services.