Contact your local council’s Housing Benefit or benefits team, usually through its website, telephone service or online claim form. You can find the correct council and its contact details using the local council finder on GOV.UK. Ask how to apply, what evidence is needed and whether you can request backdating if you have delayed claiming. If you are of working age, you may usually need to claim the housing costs element of Universal Credit instead, although some exceptions apply, so check GOV.UK or ask the council which route fits your circumstances.