•If a sanction decision is made, consider challenging it.

•If you are getting JSA, you can be given a sanction if you do not meet certain work-related requirements .

•You can be given a sanction if you are getting income support (IS) or ESA and you do not take part in work-focused interviews or work-related activity. If your partner is entitled to IS, income-based JSA or income-related ESA, you can be sanctioned if they do not take part in work-focused interviews.

•You may be able to avoid a sanction if you can show that you have a good reason or good cause for your actions.

•If you are given a sanction, your benefit is paid at a reduced (or nil) rate for a period.

•You may qualify for hardship payments if you have been given a sanction.

•You can apply for a revision or supersession (see Chapter 56), or appeal (see Chapter 57) against a sanction decision. You must apply for a mandatory reconsideration before you can appeal.