INFORMATIONAL

How to do offline UPI payment setup & process

Published on 31 Jul, 2024

How to make UPI payments offline without internet. Learn the steps, benefits, and troubleshooting tips for seamless transactions anytime, anywhere.

In today's digital age, we have revolutionized handling transactions with the Unified Payment Interface (UPI). However, there are instances when you don't have access to the internet. Thankfully, UPI offers an offline payment option. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make UPI payments offline, ensuring that you never miss the convenience of cashless transactions.

What is UPI?

The full form of UPI is Unified Payments Interface. UPI is a real-time payment system that allows users to transfer money instantly between bank accounts via a mobile device. It eliminates the need for entering bank details or IFSC codes, making transactions without interruption and quick.

What is NPCI?

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) was established in 2008 as a not-for-profit entity under the supervision of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks Association (IBA). These systems are widely used by consumers and businesses across India. NPCI's mission is to establish a strong digital payments infrastructure and promote financial inclusion.

Why Use Offline UPI Payments?

Offline UPI payments are a lifesaver when you are in areas with poor internet connectivity or running out of mobile data. It ensures that you can still conduct essential transactions without interruption.

How to Set Up Offline UPI Payments

Before you can use UPI offline, ensure your UPI account is set up with your bank. Follow these steps to enable offline UPI payments:

Register Your Mobile Number: Make sure your mobile number is registered with your bank account and linked to your UPI ID.
Enable UPI Services: Download any UPI-enabled application like Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm and complete the signup process.
Create UPI PIN: Set a secure UPI PIN to authorize the transaction.

Steps to Make Offline UPI Payments

Once your UPI setup is complete, follow these steps to make payments offline:

Step 1: Dial *99#

The *99# service is the key to offline UPI payments. Dial *99# from your registered mobile number.

Step 2: Select Your Bank

After dialing *99#, a menu will appear. Select your bank from the list provided.

Step 3: Choose the Transaction Type

You will be presented with multiple options such as:

Send Money
Request Money
Check Balance
My Profile
Pending Requests
Transactions
UPI PIN

Select the appropriate option based on your transaction need. For sending money, choose 'Send Money'.

Step 4: Enter Beneficiary Details

Provide the beneficiary's UPI ID or mobile number linked to their UPI account.

Step 5: Enter Amount

Specify the amount you wish to transfer.

Step 6: Enter UPI PIN

Enter your UPI PIN to authorize the transaction. Once done, you'll receive a confirmation message with transaction details.

Benefits of Offline UPI Payments

Accessibility: Perform transactions without internet connectivity.
Convenience: Quick and easy to use.
Security: UPI PIN ensures secure transactions.
Universal: Available across multiple banks and mobile networks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Transaction Failure

If your transaction fails, check for the following:

Ensure your mobile number is linked with your bank account.
Check if you have sufficient balance.
Re-enter the details correctly and try again.

Incorrect UPI PIN

Entering an incorrect UPI PIN multiple times can lock your UPI services temporarily. If you forget your PIN, reset it through your UPI app.

Conclusion

Offline UPI payments provide a reliable alternative when internet connectivity is a problem. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a seamless transaction anytime, anywhere. Embrace the convenience of UPI and make the most of this robust payment system.

FAQs about Offline UPI Payments

1. How can I make UPI payments without internet?

You can make UPI payments offline by dialing *99# from your registered mobile number. This service allows you to perform various transactions without needing an internet connection.

2. What is the *99# service?

The *99# service is a USSD-based mobile banking service that enables users to access financial services without internet connectivity. It works across all GSM mobile handsets and is offered by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

3. How do I reset my UPI PIN if I forget it?

If you forget your UPI PIN, you can reset it using your UPI app. Go to the app's settings or UPI options, select 'Reset UPI PIN,' and follow the prompts to set a new PIN.

4. What should I do if my UPI PIN is blocked?

If your UPI PIN is blocked, use your UPI app to reset it. Follow the app's prompts to create a new PIN.

5. Can I use offline UPI payments for bill payments?

Yes, you can pay bills offline using UPI by selecting the appropriate option under the *99# service menu.

6. How quickly are offline UPI transactions processed?

Offline UPI transactions are processed instantly, similar to online UPI transactions, ensuring timely transfers.

7. Can I receive money using the *99# service?

Yes, you can receive money by selecting 'Request Money' from the *99# menu and entering the payer's details.