First Tier Tribunal appeals process - How to start an appeal to the First Tier Tribunal

If you appeal against a benefit or tax credit decision a First Tier Tribunal will deal with your appeal. This guide goes through the process of what happens after your appeal is received.

How to start an appeal to the First Tier Tribunal

If you are appealing against a decision by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), you start your appeal by completing an SSCS1 form. If you are appealing against a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) decision, you can also submit your appeal online on the Gov.UK website.

If you are appealing against a decision by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), you start your appeal by completing an SSCS5 form.

If you are appealing against a decision by your council on your Housing Benefit, you send your request for an appeal to your council and they will then send it on to the independent tribunal.

If you are appealing against a decision on your Council Tax Support, you should use our guide on the Valuation Tribunal.

Updated: February 2020

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