I am a single mother working 3 days a week. I receive housing benefit. I got a letter requesting recent payslips just before half-term. I went to a friend's over the half term but handed in the necessary information by the due date. I know find my housing benefit has been cancelled. It is a huge hassle as I have rent, childcare an arranged birthday party and clubs to pay for. My account is overdrawn by £500 and rising. I have an arrangement with the bank to go to £700. I called the housing benefit personnel on Monday and then again today. It is now the only way of speaking to someone as there is no over the counter service. I was told the wait for it to be reinstated could be up to 18 working days. Am I being unreasonable to think that a due date means just that. The necessary information was all there. I have nothing to hide and no recent changes in income etc Advice would be appreciated. I am desperate.