How to Make UPI Payments Without Internet: A Simple Guide

Ever found yourself stuck in a place with lousy internet or when your data decides to run out just when you need it the most? If you’re someone who relies on UPI payments, this can be a real headache. But here’s some good news: you don’t have to worry about losing connectivity anymore. Thanks to a nifty feature introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), you can now make UPI payments without an internet connection. Intrigued? Let’s break down how you can do this and keep those payments flowing smoothly.

What Is This Offline UPI Payment Feature?

Imagine being in a remote area or experiencing a sudden data outage, and you still need to make a payment. Sounds like a tough spot, right? That’s where this new feature steps in. NPCI has rolled out a solution that allows you to use UPI (Unified Payments Interface) payments offline, meaning you can make transactions without needing to be online.

Why Should You Care?

If you’re a regular UPI user, this feature is a game-changer. It’s like having a backup plan when your primary one fails. Here’s why this matters:

1. Accessibility: No matter where you are, whether it’s a rural area with weak connectivity or you’ve run out of mobile data, you can still make transactions.
2. Convenience: Forgetting to top up your data? No problem! This feature ensures you can complete your payments hassle-free.
3. Emergency Use: In situations where you need to make urgent payments but have no internet, this feature can be a lifesaver.

How Does It Work?

The process to make UPI payments without the internet is straightforward once you get the hang of it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through:

1. Dial the USSD Code: On your phone’s dial pad, type *99# and hit the call button. It’s like dialing into a special payment service.
2. Welcome Message: You’ll see a “Welcome to *99#” message on your screen. Tap “Ok” to proceed. This is your gateway to the offline payment feature.
3. Choose Your Option: You’ll now see a menu with options like Send Money, Request Money, Check Balance, and more. Tap on “Send” if you want to make a payment or “Request Money” if you’re on the receiving end.
4. Enter Details: Depending on your choice, you’ll be prompted to enter details such as the mobile number or UPI ID of the recipient.
5. Confirm and Pay: After filling in the necessary details, you’ll be asked to enter your UPI PIN. This is your security code to authorize the transaction.
6. Transaction Complete: Once you’ve entered your PIN, your payment will be processed even if you’re offline.

What Do You Need to Get Started?

Before diving into offline UPI payments, make sure of the following:

• Linked Mobile Number: Your mobile number must be linked to your bank account. This is essential for using the UPI feature, whether online or offline.
• UPI ID Creation: You need to have a UPI ID set up, which can be done through any payment app or the BHIM UPI app. This ID links your bank account to your mobile number.

Final Thoughts

The ability to make UPI payments without internet access is a remarkable advancement, especially for those who frequently face connectivity issues or have limited data plans. It’s like having a magic key that opens the door to financial transactions regardless of your internet status. So, next time you’re in a spot without online access, remember this handy feature and keep your payments running smoothly.

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