From August 1, several new rules will be implemented for UPI apps such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and PayTM. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is introducing these changes to improve efficiency and reduce server load during peak hours. These updates are especially important for users who frequently make UPI transactions throughout the day.
Limit on Balance Checks
Under the new rules, users will be allowed to check their bank balance only 50 times per day through each UPI app. This limit has been introduced to avoid unnecessary load on banking systems. Additionally, after every transaction, the user’s updated balance will automatically appear, so separate balance checks may not always be necessary.
Fixed Timings for Auto Payments
Recurring payments such as EMIs, SIPs, or subscription charges will now be processed only during specific time slots. These slots are before 10 am, between 1 pm and 5 pm, and after 9:30 pm. If your auto payment is due during peak hours, it may either be processed before or after that period. Peak hours are defined as 10 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9:30 pm. The system will also have limited retries if an auto payment fails.
Daily Limit on Accessing Linked Bank Accounts
Another update is the restriction on how many times users can retrieve bank account details linked to their mobile number. Starting next month, this can only be done 25 times a day. This feature is used when users check which accounts are linked to their number after selecting a bank in their UPI app.
Faster Transaction Status Updates
Often during peak hours, users face problems where money is debited but the receiver does not get it immediately. To address this, UPI apps will now be required to display the actual status of a transaction within seconds. Users will be allowed to check the transaction status only three times, and they must wait 90 seconds between each attempt.
Recipient Name Will Be Shown Before Payment
To avoid mistakes while sending money, UPI apps will now show the recipient’s registered name before the payment is completed. This will help users confirm that they are transferring money to the right person or business.
