How an ESA decision is made
ESA decisions rest on the Work Capability Assessment, which looks at how your health condition or disability affects your ability to work. You are scored against a list of activities, and 15 points or more normally means you have limited capability for work.
There are three possible outcomes. You can be found fit for work and receive no ESA. You can be placed in the work-related activity group, with limited capability for work. Or you can be placed in the support group, with limited capability for work-related activity as well, which is for people whose condition means they are not expected to prepare for work.
The same assessment is used for Universal Credit, where the outcomes are called limited capability for work (LCW) and limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA).
Reasons to challenge the decision
- You were found fit for work, but your condition makes regular work unrealistic.
- You were placed in the work-related activity group but you should be in the support group.
- The assessment report records things you did not say, or leaves out fluctuating symptoms, pain, fatigue or mental health difficulties.
- The assessor judged you on a good day, or on what you can do once, rather than reliably and repeatedly.
- Your GP or specialist evidence was not considered.
What to put in your letter
- Your name, address, National Insurance number and the date and reference on the decision letter.
- A clear request for a mandatory reconsideration, saying which outcome you dispute.
- The activities where you believe you should have scored more, with real examples of the difficulty, how often it happens and how long it lasts.
- Specific mistakes in the assessment report, which you can request a copy of.
- How your condition varies from day to day and what the effects are after you have tried an activity.
- New evidence: fit notes, hospital or specialist letters, medication details, and statements from people who support you.
Steps and deadlines
Your income while you challenge a decision can be affected, and it depends on your circumstances. Ask the DWP what you will be paid and what else you could claim in the meantime, or speak to Citizens Advice.
- Request a mandatory reconsideration within one month of the date on the decision letter.
- Send your letter with any new evidence. Keep a copy.
- The DWP issues a mandatory reconsideration notice with its decision.
- If you still disagree, appeal to the tribunal, normally within one month of the date on that notice.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to challenge an ESA decision?
Normally one month from the date on the decision letter. Late requests may be accepted for good reasons, but you should not rely on that.
What is the difference between the work-related activity group and the support group?
People in the work-related activity group are expected to take steps towards work in the future. People in the support group are not, because their condition has a greater effect on what they can do.
Can I ask for a copy of my assessment report?
Yes, and it is worth doing. Errors in the report are often the strongest reason to change a decision.
Is the process the same for Universal Credit?
The Work Capability Assessment is the same, and the challenge route is similar: mandatory reconsideration first, then a tribunal appeal. The outcomes are named LCW and LCWRA.
Does the letter need medical evidence?
It does not have to, but evidence makes it much stronger. Include anything from your GP, consultant, therapist or support worker that shows how your condition affects you.
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Start your letter, £34.99This page is general information to help you understand the process. It is not legal advice, and rules and time limits can change, so always check the dates on your own decision letter. Last checked 1 November 2026.