CCM7180 - Discrepancy Examinations: Time Limits for Opening Discrepancy Examinations

Discrepancy Examinations can only be carried out in-year, while the current award is in payment. So for 2003/04, for example, you can only examine claims between 6th April 2003 and 5th April 2004.

If you have opened an examination and have not settled it (i.e. have not made a revised decision on the award) by 5th April, you will have to stop the examination. For this reason you should not open any discrepancy examinations after 31st January in any year. This will allow you sufficient time to obtain information from claimants and amend the award if appropriate.

Managers are responsible for ensuring examinations are not opened after 31st January.