Nationwide, Lloyds, NatWest and Santander customers told to check bank statements in October

Money will be arriving for millions of people over the next few weeks

Households have been told to keep a check on their finances over the coming weeks, with a number of support payments arriving for certain people. Some pensioners and low-income households will be getting support to help them during winter.

And payments and discounts will be made at different times through winter, with some of it automatic. It means money will be arriving in bank accounts over the next few months and some people may not know what it is for and why they have received it.

It makes it even more important to make regular checks of bank statements and keep up to date with finances. Support will include the Warm Home Discount. This is given to the poorest pensioners and some low-income households.

READ MORE: Octopus Energy tells customers £150 payment will now be automatic

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It's applied in the form of a £150 discount to bills, rather than a direct payment, between October and March and will deliver savings on energy costs. Those eligible should be sent letter explaining what is happening.

Then from November, Winter Fuel Payments will be arriving for the poorest pensioners. These are worth either £200 or £300.

Unlike previous years, not all pensioners will get them following a controversial decision by the Government to make them means-tested. The cash will now only go to those on Pension Credit and some other benefits.

A £10 Christmas Bonus payment will also enter bank accounts of people on certain benefits during December. Qualifying benefits include PIP, Carer's Allowance and Pension Credit. Those who get Universal Credit as a standalone benefit will not get the payment, however.