We have all been in a situation where we desperately need to make a payment, but the internet connection decides to take a break. With the growing adoption of UPI (Unified Payments Interface), we are heavily dependent on this online transaction and a little inconvenience can make us feel embraced or even frustrated in an emergency situation.
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While for UPI transactions you do need an active internet connection, there is also an offline solution that allows UPI payments without the need for an internet connection. By dialling the official USSD code from your mobile phone, you can initiate transactions smoothly.
This service, introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), ensures that users can access banking services even without internet connectivity. The *99# service facilitates various banking operations including sending and receiving interbank funds, checking account balance, and setting or changing the UPI PIN. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use the *99# USSD code to make UPI payments if you lose your internet connection.
How to transfer money from UPI offline
Transferring money using UPI offline is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to complete your transaction without internet:
Step 1: Dial *99# from your registered mobile number linked to your bank account.
Step 2: A menu with available banking facilities will appear. Options include:
Send Money
Request Money
Check Balance
My Profile
Pending Request
Transactions
UPI Pin
Step 3: To send money, type ‘1’ and tap ‘Send’.
Step 4: Select the method for sending money: Mobile Number, UPI ID, Saved Beneficiary, or other options. Type the corresponding number and tap ‘Send’.
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Step 5: If you choose to transfer via mobile number, enter the receiver’s mobile number linked to their UPI account and tap ‘Send’.
Step 6: Enter the amount you wish to transfer and tap ‘Send’.
Step 7: Provide a remark for the payment if desired.
Step 8: Enter your UPI PIN to complete the transaction.
Step 9: Your UPI transaction will be processed offline successfully.
Notably, you can also disable this service. to disable UPI services offline, dial *99# from your registered phone number and follow the instructions provided.
Meanwhile, while the internet is not an issue and you face problems with bank service, you can try the UPI Lite service for quick money transfer without entering the passcode.
How to setup and use UPI Lite
To setup UPI Lite:
Open your UPI app.
Click “Enable UPI Lite” on the home screen.
Read and accept the terms and conditions.
Enter the amount to add to UPI Lite (up to Rs 2,000) and select your bank account.
Enter your UPI PIN to confirm.
To use UPI Lite:
Scan any UPI-powered QR code or enter the recipient’s phone number.
Select UPI Lite as the payment option.
Your transaction will be processed without needing to enter a passcode.
Notably, UPI Lite is the default method for payments less than Rs 500. Therefore, you can not make big transactions using the process.
