UPI Payments Without Internet: Nowadays, making online transactions via UPI has become easier than ever before. From small shopkeepers to large malls and restaurants, people everywhere are making payments using UPI. However, there are times when payments get stuck—causing inconvenience—due to a lack of network coverage or running out of internet data. In such situations, very few people are aware that UPI payments can actually be made even without an internet connection. Even if your phone has no network signal, you can still make digital payments using a simple method. With the help of this feature, you will neither need to carry cash nor have to worry about payment failures. In this article, we will explain how you can make online payments via UPI without an internet connection…
The Offline Payment Feature Was Introduced in 2022
For your information, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) introduced the facility to make UPI payments without an internet connection in 2022. This feature specifically addressed a major challenge faced by people residing in areas with weak network coverage or where internet access is not readily available. Let’s take a look at the process for making offline payments…
The Complete Process for Making Offline Payments
To make a UPI payment without an internet connection, you need to dial *99# from your mobile phone.
Subsequently, a menu will appear on your screen; select the option to “Send Money” from this menu.
Next, select the option to send money via a mobile number and enter the recipient’s mobile number.
As soon as you enter the number, the recipient’s name will be displayed; ensure you verify this name before proceeding with the payment.
Now, you will need to enter the amount you wish to transfer, followed by your UPI PIN.
Once you complete these steps, your payment will be processed within just a few seconds.
Important Points to Keep in Mind
For offline payments to work, your mobile number must be linked to your bank account. Additionally, in certain cases, it is also required that your Aadhaar number be linked. Therefore, if your mobile number is not linked to your bank account, the payment transaction may fail.
FAQs: UPI Payments Without Internet
1. Can UPI payments be made without an internet connection?
Yes, UPI payments can be made without internet using the *99# USSD-based service introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India.
2. How does offline UPI payment work?
Users can dial *99# on their mobile phone, access the menu, and follow simple steps to send money using their registered mobile number without needing internet access.
*3. What is the 99# service in UPI?
The *99# service is a USSD-based mobile banking service that allows users to perform UPI transactions, check balance, and send money without internet connectivity.
4. When was the offline UPI payment feature introduced?
The offline UPI payment feature was introduced in 2022 by NPCI to help users in areas with poor or no internet connectivity.
5. What are the requirements for offline UPI payments?
You need a mobile number linked to your bank account. In some cases, linking your Aadhaar number may also be required for successful transactions.
6. Is it safe to use UPI without internet?
Yes, offline UPI payments are secure as they require a UPI PIN for authentication, ensuring safe transactions.
7. Can I send money using a mobile number via offline UPI?
Yes, you can send money by entering the recipient’s mobile number, verifying their name, and completing the transaction with your UPI PIN.
*8. Are there any charges for using 99# service?
Some telecom providers may charge a nominal fee for using the USSD service, depending on your mobile network.
9. What should I do if my offline UPI payment fails?
Ensure your mobile number is linked to your bank account and you have entered correct details. You can also retry the transaction or contact your bank.
10. Who benefits the most from offline UPI payments?
People living in rural or low-network areas, or users without active internet data, benefit the most from this feature.
