Why GPs decline
Writing bespoke third-party opinion letters is outside the NHS GP contract. Practices declining PIP support letters are not breaching duty of care. What they cannot decline is a subject access request for a copy of your records under UK GDPR (Data Protection Act 2018).
The free records route
- Write to the practice manager requesting a copy of your medical records under UK GDPR.
- Free of charge; must be provided within 30 days (extendable by two months in complex cases).
- Records include consultation notes, medications, diagnoses, referrals and letters received from specialists.
- See the medical records guide for the wording.
Targeted factual confirmation
If a full opinion letter is refused, ask instead for confirmation of specific facts already in the notes. Example wording: "Please confirm from my record: (1) date of diagnosis of X; (2) current prescribed medications and dose; (3) date of last referral to Y." These are administrative confirmations, not clinical opinions, and are usually easier to obtain.
Private letter fees
If you still want a full support letter, expect a private fee. Reported fees typically sit in the 20 to 100 pound range depending on complexity; some practices charge more. Ask for the fee in writing before commissioning the letter. Practice discretion applies.
Evidence that lands without a GP letter
- Specialist letters (consultant, therapist, occupational therapist).
- Discharge summaries.
- Medication list and repeat prescription printout.
- Care needs assessment from your local authority.
- Third-party statements from partner, carer, colleague.
- A 7-day diary in descriptor and reliability language.
- A Functional Evidence Statement mapped to the 12 activities.
Build the evidence pack
Our assessment produces a Functional Evidence Statement, a 7-day diary template, and a records-request letter for your GP. No GP opinion letter required.
Frequently asked questions
Are GPs obliged to write a PIP support letter?
No. Writing bespoke opinion letters for third parties (including DWP) is not part of the NHS GP contract. Practices can decline or charge a private fee. What they cannot refuse is a subject access request for a copy of your records under UK GDPR.
How much do private GP letters cost?
Practice discretion. Reported fees typically fall in the 20 to 100 pound range depending on complexity, though some charge more. Always ask for the fee in writing before requesting the letter.
Is there a free alternative?
Yes. Request your medical records under UK GDPR (Data Protection Act 2018). This is free within 30 days and includes the same GP notes an opinion letter would summarise. See the medical records guide.
What is a targeted factual confirmation request?
A short letter asking the GP to confirm specific facts already in your notes (dates, medications, diagnoses, referrals). This is quicker, cheaper and less discretionary than asking for an opinion letter.
Does DWP require a GP letter?
No. GP letters are one form of supporting evidence among many. Specialist letters, discharge letters, medication records, care assessments, third-party statements and diaries can carry equal or greater weight.
General information and document drafting, not benefits advice. Finally Seen is not affiliated with DWP or the NHS and does not guarantee any award. Check current guidance at gov.uk before sending.