Appeal against Housing Benefit decision

Letter to the council requesting an appeal against a Housing Benefit decision, which the council must forward to HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Time limit 1 month from the decision.

Draft template. This letter is being reviewed by a regulated solicitor before publication. You can use it now as a starting point, but read the surrounding guide carefully and consider getting free legal advice before sending.

The appeal goes to the council first, who must pass it to HMCTS. Time limit 1 month from the decision (or reconsideration response). Late appeals up to 13 months may be accepted with good reason. Free representation through Citizens Advice or local Welfare Rights significantly improves outcomes. Around 60-75% of represented appeals succeed.

AI cross-check (2026-06-15) — pending regulated solicitor sign-off

This letter cites the following authority, which the AI has checked against current GOV.UK / legislation.gov.uk:

  • Regulation 19, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations 2001 (SI 2001/1002): confirmed currently in force; governs appeals. The route via council then to HMCTS Social Entitlement Chamber is correctly described.
  • Regulation 86(2) Housing Benefit Regulations 2006 (SI 2006/213): correctly cited — allows continued payment of HB pending appeal in certain circumstances. Reviewer should confirm which circumstances apply, as this rule has conditions.
  • 1-month time limit: confirmed as the standard period under the 2001 Regulations; late appeals (up to 13 months) are permitted where there is a good reason.
  • First-tier Tribunal (Social Entitlement Chamber): correct tribunal; operated by HMCTS under the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007.
  • 28-day bundle deadline: consistent with standard Tribunal procedure but this is a procedural expectation rather than a hard statutory deadline — reviewer should verify current HMCTS standard directions.

Reviewer focus areas: (1) Housing Benefit is a legacy benefit gradually being replaced by Universal Credit — confirm whether the claimant's circumstances mean HB is still applicable or whether UC applies instead (different appeal route). (2) Confirm that regulation 86(2) HB Regs 2006 is still in force and the conditions for continued payment during appeal. (3) Verify the current composition and procedure of the Social Entitlement Chamber for HB appeals.

This AI cross-check is an aid only; final sign-off requires a regulated solicitor.

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Why the decision is wrong — facts, law, evidence ignored, calculation errors.

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. You should seek qualified legal help if your situation requires it.