January 16, 2025 · 11 mins read
The rapid pace in which technological advancement is booming has made its various inventions extremely pragmatic and accessible in terms of user experience. This easy and hassle-free practicality allows normal people to use the many boons of the web in their daily routine. Increasing digitization has thus heralded almost every aspect of our personal and professional living. One such revolutionary invention is the online transfer of money through a Unified Payment Interface. Even just a few years back, this novelty would have been hard to imagine for any software expert. But now due to extensive research and database development, this has become the new reality to transform how we had conventionally carried out financial transactions. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as one of the most popular methods for transferring money in India. Unparalleled accessibility, hastily done transactions; are some of the many reasons behind the immense popularity of this interface.
Unified Payments Interface, or UPI, is a software payment system to enable users to carry out all sorts of financial transactions using a mobile device online. Instead of entering personal data like bank account number, IFSC code, etc.; like one has to in traditional forms of withdrawals and deposits; this method makes use of the web to transfer money to and fro. Transactions can simply be initiated through a quick response code(QR Code) or a UPI Id. Thus enabling users to make payments and transfers efficiently just through some clicks.
Almost every bank today has their own personalized online banking app. These apps have been integrated with UPI to provide a seamless and non-cumbersome medium for managing financial transactions. Be it paying for groceries to a hawker on the streets or getting your monthly salary credited; UPI has blended all forms of financial mobility solutions at one place.
If talking in technical terms, UPI enables transfer of funds from peer-to-peer (P2P) and person-to-merchant (P2M). Its basic operation makes use of the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) infrastructure, which allows for instant money transfers even outside of banking hours. Even if the two parties involved in money transfer have accounts in different banks, UPI has integrated service providers at one platform thus making transactions free of technicalities and time-efficient.
While UPI generally requires an internet connection, there are ways to use UPI services without internet access. This is particularly useful in areas with poor network connectivity or for individuals without mobile data plans. The solution lies in leveraging the USSD-based UPI service (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) offered by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). Here’s how it works and how you can use it effectively.
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The USSD-based UPI service is a feature that allows users to access UPI services through the *Dial 99# option. This service was introduced to ensure financial inclusivity, enabling users with basic mobile phones and limited internet access to conduct digital transactions. It works on GSM networks, making it accessible on both smartphones and feature phones.
To use UPI without internet, you need to follow these steps:
Ensure you have a UPI-enabled bank account. Download any UPI-supported app like Google Pay, Paytm, or PhonePe to set up your UPI ID. Link your bank account to your UPI ID and set a secure UPI PIN during this process.
Once your UPI ID is set up, dial *99# on your phone. This number is the gateway to offline UPI services.
When prompted, select your bank from the list provided. This step ensures that the system links the USSD service to your registered UPI account.
After selecting your bank, you will see a menu with various options, including:
1. Send Money
2. Request Money
3. Check Balance
4. My Profile
5. Pending Requests
6. Transactions
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To send money, select the option by entering the corresponding number (e.g., "1" for Send Money). You’ll be prompted to enter details like the recipient’s mobile number, UPI ID, or bank account number and IFSC code. Input the amount and confirm the transaction by entering your UPI PIN.
If you want to check your bank account balance, choose the relevant option. You’ll need to authenticate using your UPI PIN to view your balance.
You can request money by entering the payer’s mobile number or UPI ID, the amount, and a note (optional). The payer will receive a notification to approve the transaction.
The offline UPI service uses the USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) protocol to enable financial transactions. The method works on basic phones and does not require a smartphone or an active internet connection. You can access this service using the dial code *99#, a feature available across all major telecom operators in India.
Before you can start using UPI without internet, you need to ensure the following:
If you haven't already, download any UPI-enabled app, such as Google Pay, PhonePe, or BHIM, and link your bank account to your UPI ID.
The mobile number linked to your bank account must be active on the device you'll use.
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Confirm that your telecom operator supports the *99# service. Most major providers in India offer this feature.
A UPI PIN is a four or six-digit number that secures your transactions. Set up your UPI PIN in your banking or UPI app.
Steps to Use UPI Without Internet
Follow these steps to make transactions using UPI without an internet connection:
Open the dialer on your phone and enter *99#. Press the call button.
1: After dialing *99#, a menu will appear with multiple options, including:
2: Send Money
3: Request Money
4: Check Balance
5: My Profile
6: Pending Requests
7: Transactions
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Select the option to send money by typing the corresponding number and pressing "Send."
Enter the Recipient’s Details
1: You can send money using any of the following details:
2: UPI ID
3: Mobile Number
4: Bank Account Number and IFSC Code
Specify the amount you want to transfer.
Confirm the transaction details and enter your UPI PIN to authorize the payment.
You'll receive a confirmation message with the transaction status.
Using UPI without internet offers several convenient features:
Dial *99# and select the “Check Balance” option to view your account balance instantly.
The “Request Money” feature allows you to ask for payments from others by sharing your UPI ID or mobile number.
View your transaction history to keep track of your offline payments.
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The *99# service is available in multiple Indian languages, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
India's vast rural population often faces limited access to reliable internet services. UPI without internet bridges this gap, empowering people in these areas to participate in the digital economy. By allowing transactions through methods like Interactive Voice Response (IVR), missed calls, or basic feature phones, UPI 123Pay ensures that every individual, regardless of their device or internet access, can use digital payments seamlessly.
Not everyone owns a smartphone, and many individuals still rely on feature phones. UPI without internet makes it possible for these users to send and receive money, pay bills, or recharge their phones. By leveraging basic telecom networks, UPI 123Pay democratizes financial services, ensuring that even those without advanced gadgets can access the convenience of digital transactions.
Internet connectivity can be erratic in many places, especially during natural disasters or network outages. UPI without internet ensures uninterrupted financial transactions even when the internet is unavailable. This reliability makes it a crucial tool in emergencies, enabling people to transfer funds, purchase essentials, or pay for services without delays.
The UPI 123Pay system is designed to be user-friendly. Users can initiate transactions via a simple phone call, USSD codes, or pre-set voice commands. This ease of use eliminates the need for complex apps, passwords, or internet-dependent interfaces, making the system accessible to the elderly, less tech-savvy individuals, and first-time digital payment users.
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Internet data costs can be a barrier for some users, particularly those in lower-income groups. Transactions via UPI without internet save users from spending on data plans while still granting them access to cashless payments. This cost-effective feature is especially beneficial for daily wage workers and small business owners who rely on quick and affordable payment options.
UPI transactions without internet prioritize security by using multi-factor authentication processes like PINs and mobile verification. Since these transactions don't require downloading third-party apps, users are also safeguarded from potential malware attacks or phishing scams associated with fraudulent apps.
UPI without internet plays a pivotal role in achieving the government's goal of a cashless and financially inclusive society. By making digital payments accessible to everyone, it encourages people from all socio-economic backgrounds to embrace technology and participate in the formal banking system
1. Emergency Situations: Imagine running out of cash while traveling in a no-network zone. UPI without internet becomes a lifesaver.
2. Rural Areas: Farmers, small shopkeepers, and residents in rural regions can benefit from this service to conduct cashless transactions.
3. Backup for Internet Outages: During internet outages, you can rely on UPI without internet for uninterrupted payments.
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While the offline UPI service is highly convenient, it does have some limitations:
1. Transaction Limits: The daily transaction limit for the *99# service is typically capped at ₹5,000.
2. Limited Features: Advanced features like QR code payments and bill splitting are unavailable in the offline mode.
3. USSD Charges: Some telecom operators may charge a nominal fee for each *99# transaction.
4. Dependency on Mobile Network: Though it doesn’t require internet, a basic mobile network signal is essential to use the service.
1. Memorize Your UPI PIN: Always remember your UPI PIN, as you'll need it to complete transactions.
2. Avoid Sharing PIN: Never share your UPI PIN with anyone to ensure the security of your account.
3. Keep Track of Transaction Limits: Be mindful of the daily transaction cap to plan your payments accordingly.
4. Use Secure Channels: Ensure that you dial *99# from your registered mobile number only.
As digital payments continue to evolve, innovations in offline UPI services are expected to enhance user experiences further. Potential advancements may include:
1. Voice-Activated UPI: Enabling transactions through voice commands could make offline UPI even more accessible.
2. Increased Transaction Limits: Raising the transaction cap will allow users to handle larger payments offline.
3. Integration with More Services: Offline UPI may expand to include features like bill payments and ticket bookings.
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UPI without internet is a game-changer, making digital payments accessible to all, regardless of internet availability or smartphone ownership. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily perform financial transactions, check balances, and manage your payments seamlessly. Whether you're in a remote village or facing a temporary internet outage, knowing how to use UPI without internet ensures you're never disconnected from essential banking services. Embrace this offline solution to experience the full potential of UPI, even in the most challenging scenarios.
1. Can I use UPI without an internet connection?
Yes, you can use UPI via USSD codes, which don’t require an internet connection.
2. What is the USSD code for UPI transactions?
Dial *99# from your phone to access UPI features without the internet.
3. Do I need a smartphone for USSD UPI?
No, USSD UPI works on any mobile phone, including feature phones.
4. What services can I use via USSD UPI?
You can check balance, send money, and receive payments using USSD UPI.
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