Your council should send a decision notice explaining why your Housing Benefit claim was refused and when the decision takes effect. Ask the council to look at the decision again, usually called a reconsideration, and request written reasons or evidence if anything is unclear; you may also be able to appeal to an independent tribunal, normally within one month of the notice. If you are of working age, check whether Universal Credit housing costs might apply instead, while pension-age claims are generally handled through Housing Benefit. Keep paying what rent you can and seek help promptly from Citizens Advice, Shelter or a welfare-rights adviser, as deadlines and the correct route depend on your circumstances.