Challenging decisions

This advice applies to Scotland only.

If you are unhappy with a decision that has been made by Social Security Scotland, you can ask for it to be looked at again. This is called a redetermination.

If you are still unhappy with the outcome of that you can appeal to an Independent Tribunal.  

The time limit for asking for a redetermination or appeal is normally 31 days (42 days for winter heating assistance) from the date of the decision you are challenging. The time limit for an appeal is also normally 31 days.

This time limit can be extended to one year, but only if you have good reason for a late request. Currently this absolute time limit of 1 year can be extended if the reason your redermination or appeal is late is because of the Coronavirus outbreak.