CCM7070 - Discrepancy Examinations: Action to be taken following the issue of the Opening Letter

You should always state the date by which you expect to receive the claimant’s agreement, allowing at least 40 days. For example, if you wrote on 03/07/2003, you would specify 12/08/03 for a response. If the 40 day point falls at the weekend, specify the next weekday following. If you are aware that there are likely to be severe postal delays (for example around Christmas time or if there is a local postal strike), allow a few extra days.

If the claim was made by a couple you should send a copy of your letter to both members, even if the income, or income discrepancy, only relates to one of them.