Imagine this scenario: you urgently need to make a payment, but your internet suddenly goes down. Frustrating, right?
Nowadays, as more people rely on UPI (Unified Payments Interface) for transactions, it’s essential to know how to handle payments even when the internet isn’t working. So, what can you do to keep your transactions smooth when your connection fails? Let’s dive into the steps you can take to make UPI payments offline, ensuring you avoid any hassles.
Understanding Offline UPI Payment
You might wonder, what exactly is an offline UPI payment?
Well, the *99# USSD code, introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), empowers you to handle UPI transactions without internet access. With this service, you can send money, check your balance, and manage your UPI PIN—all without needing to connect to the internet.
How to Make UPI Payments Without Internet
Now that you understand what offline UPI payments are, let’s walk through the steps to use the *99# service:
Dial the Code
First, from your registered mobile number, dial *99#.
Access the Menu
Next, you’ll see a menu with several options, such as:
Send Money
Request Money
Check Balance
My Profile
Pending Requests
Transactions
UPI PIN
Choose to Send Money
Then, select ‘Send Money’ by typing ‘1’ and pressing ‘Send’.
Select Your Payment Method
After that, decide how you want to send money—whether via Mobile Number, UPI ID, Saved Beneficiary, or other options. Type the corresponding number and press ‘Send’.
Enter the Recipient’s Details
If you opt to use a mobile number, enter the receiver’s number linked to their UPI account, then press ‘Send’.
Specify the Amount
Now, enter the amount you wish to transfer and press ‘Send’.
Add a Remark
Optionally, you can add a remark for the payment.
Complete the Transaction
Finally, enter your UPI PIN to finalize the transaction.
Confirm the Transaction
Your payment processes immediately, even when you’re offline.
Dealing with Bank Server Issues: UPI Lite to the Rescue
But what if the bank server is down and you can’t make transactions?
In such cases, UPI Lite offers a reliable alternative. UPI Lite allows you to make payments up to Rs 500 without needing to enter a passcode. This feature is especially useful for small transactions when time is of the essence.
Setting Up and Using UPI Lite
So, how do you set up UPI Lite?
Follow these straightforward steps:
Open Your UPI App
Start by opening your UPI app on your mobile device.
Enable UPI Lite
Then, tap on “Enable UPI Lite” on the home screen.
Agree to the Terms
Next, read and accept the terms and conditions.
Add Funds
Afterward, enter the amount you want to add to UPI Lite (up to Rs 2,000) and select your bank account.
Confirm with Your UPI PIN
Finally, enter your UPI PIN to complete the setup.
To use UPI Lite, simply scan a UPI-powered QR code or enter the recipient’s phone number. Then, choose UPI Lite as the payment option, and your transaction will go through seamlessly without needing a passcode.
Wrapping Up: Be Prepared for Anything
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to handle UPI payments without internet, you’ll never be caught off guard again. Have you ever faced a situation where an offline payment solution could have saved the day?
Share this guide with your friends and family so they can also stay prepared for any unexpected internet outages!