UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is widely known for enabling smooth digital payments. However, there are times when users may not have access to the internet. In such cases, UPI payments can still be made offline through USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) technology. This guide will cover the key aspects of UPI payment without internet, how to set it up, and how it functions.
What is the offline UPI payment number
To make UPI payments without an internet connection, users can dial the offline UPI payment number, *99#. This service allows users to make transactions by interacting with the UPI platform via a USSD code. This method works on all mobile devices, whether smartphones or feature phones, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Upon dialing *99#, users are prompted with a series of options, such as sending money, checking account balances, or viewing transaction history. After selecting an option, the user can enter the required details, such as the recipient's UPI ID or bank account number, to complete the transaction.
This method of UPI payment without internet ensures that users can make secure transactions even in areas with low network coverage. Additionally, this option is not limited to a specific mobile carrier, making it a versatile solution for all users.
How to set up offline UPI payments?
Setting up offline UPI payments is straightforward, but users must follow a few essential steps. These steps ensure that they can make UPI payments without internet access, providing a reliable backup for times of poor connectivity. Here is how to set it up:
Dial *99#: This is the USSD code for accessing the offline UPI payment service. It works across all mobile networks and does not require internet access.
Choose your bank: After dialing *99#, users are prompted to select their bank from a list of registered UPI banks.
Set UPI PIN: Users must set their UPI PIN during this step. The UPI PIN is essential for authenticating transactions and ensures that payments remain secure.
Enter transaction details: Once the UPI PIN is set, users can begin making payments by selecting the appropriate option, such as ‘SEND MONEY,’ and entering the recipient’s UPI ID or bank details.
Confirm transaction: After entering the necessary details, users can complete the transaction by entering their UPI PIN for confirmation.
By following these steps, users can ensure they are ready to make UPI payments without internet whenever needed. The UPI transaction limit for offline payments is typically lower than for online transactions.
How to do offline UPI payments?
Once the setup is complete, making offline UPI payments becomes a simple task. The process involves using the *99# USSD code to initiate payments and can be completed in a few steps. Here is how it works:
Dial *99#: Open your mobile phone's dialer and type *99#. You will see a menu with various options, such as "Send Money," "Request Money," "Check Balance," and others.
Select the transaction type: Choose the “Send Money” option by typing the corresponding number.
Enter recipient details: You will be prompted to enter the recipient's UPI ID, mobile number linked to their UPI, or their bank account and IFSC code.
Enter the amount: Specify the amount you wish to transfer.
Enter your UPI PIN: Finally, enter your UPI PIN to authenticate and complete the payment.
This method ensures secure payments and provides an alternative to internet-based transactions. The UPI limit per day for offline payments can vary, but the amount is generally capped to prevent fraudulent activities.
The option to make UPI payments without internet offers flexibility for users who may experience connectivity issues or own feature phones. The offline UPI payment number, *99#, allows users to make secure transactions by simply using a mobile phone and following the steps mentioned above.
While offline UPI payments provide convenience, they come with limitations, such as transaction caps and a reliance on the USSD service. For frequent users of UPI, it is important to understand these limitations and how they differ from online UPI transactions. Whether online or offline, UPI remains a robust and secure platform for digital transactions in India. Bajaj Pay platform is an excellent example of how offline UPI payments can be utilised to manage bills efficiently, providing a reliable alternative when the internet is unavailable.