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Benefits FAQ

Brief answers to some of the most common questions that our Infoline receives about benefits.

About this information

We know that many people with mental health problems are having difficulties with the benefits and welfare system. These pages give some brief answers to some of the most common questions that our Infoline receives.

However, the national office of Mind does not provide welfare advice for individuals and we would always advise finding local help and support.

  • It is important to get specific advice about your particular circumstances from a welfare benefit specialist.
  • Time limits for requesting reconsiderations or appeals are one calendar month from the date of the decision.
  • Your local Mind or Citizens Advice may be able to help. See our useful contacts page for more information.

Our Policy and Campaigns team is always keen to hear from people who have experience of using the benefits and welfare system who want to tell their story or just get involved in our campaign for a fairer system.

See also our webpage on where you can find help with benefits, which includes a number of factsheets on ESA and the WCA specifically aimed at people with mental health problems.

This information was published in November 2016.

References are available on request. If you would like to reproduce any of this information, see our page on permissions and licensing.

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