UPI has made digital payments fast and convenient. But what happens when you don’t have internet access? Offline UPI payments solve that problem. They let you send money, check your balance, and make purchases without mobile data or Wi‑Fi. This option works on both smartphones and basic feature phones by using the *99# USSD code to access your bank via the UPI system. The process is straightforward, secure, and functions even in areas with weak network coverage.
What are Offline UPI Payments?
Offline UPI payments are digital transactions completed without an active internet connection. Instead of opening a UPI app, you simply dial *99# from your mobile. That dials into a secure USSD-based service operated through the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and connects to your bank. From the menu you can send or request money, check your account balance, and view recent transactions. The service works across Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) networks and is supported by most Indian banks. Every transaction requires your UPI PIN for authentication, ensuring secure transfers even without internet.
Offline UPI Payment Options
Different offline UPI options suit different needs. These methods are ideal when you need to pay without internet in locations with limited connectivity.
| Method | Device needed | Internet | Limit | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *99# USSD | Any GSM phone | No | ₹5,000 per transaction | General use in low network areas |
| UPI Lite | Smartphone | Sometimes | ₹500 per debit, ₹2,000 wallet | Small quick payments without PIN |
| UPI Lite X | Smartphone with NFC | No | ₹500 per debit, ₹2,000 wallet | Tap to pay without data |
| UPI 123PAY | Feature phone | No | ₹5,000 per transaction | Voice or IVR-based payments |
Background of Offline UPI Payment *99# Service
The *99# USSD service for banking began in November 2012 with MTNL and BSNL. It was expanded in 2014 under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana to broaden financial inclusion and allow more users to transact without internet. UPI for smartphones launched in August 2016, and USSD 2.0 went live on 30 December 2016, enabling feature phones to access UPI via *99#. Today the service supports multiple languages and is available through many banks, offering a reliable way to send money without internet access.
Features of Offline UPI Payment *99# Service
- Works on any GSM phone, including basic feature phones
- Menu-driven, step-by-step interface that is easy to follow
- Uses a signalling channel so internet is not required
- Available 24×7, including holidays
- One common code (*99#) across operators
- Your mobile operator may apply a small USSD fee
- Extends UPI access to users without smartphones or mobile data
How to Enable UPI Without Internet?
To start using offline UPI payments, follow these steps:
- Dial *99# from the mobile number registered with your bank
- Select your preferred language from the menu
- Choose your bank from the list
- Provide debit card details if prompted
- Set your UPI PIN if you haven’t already
After setup, you can use *99# any time to make UPI payments without needing data.
How to Send Money Through UPI Offline Payments?
When you dial *99#, a menu appears with options such as ‘Send Money’, ‘Check Balance’, or ‘Request Money’. To send money without internet:
- Dial *99# from your registered mobile number
- Select ‘Send Money’ from the menu
- Choose recipient by mobile number, UPI ID, or account number and IFSC
- Enter the recipient details and the transfer amount
- Confirm the transaction by entering your UPI PIN
Transactions are processed instantly and a confirmation is displayed. This lets you transfer funds securely even when you cannot connect to the internet.
Benefits of UPI Offline Payments
- Works anywhere without mobile data
- Compatible with all GSM phones, including feature phones
- Secure—every transaction requires your UPI PIN
- No app installation needed
- Quick and straightforward process
Troubleshooting Common Offline UPI *99# Issues
- Bank not listed: If your bank does not appear, try again later or set your UPI PIN using a banking or BHIM app and retry *99#
- Connection error: Ensure your registered SIM is in the primary SIM slot and move to an area with better signal
- Incorrect UPI PIN: You can reset your PIN through the *99# flow or via your bank’s UPI app
- Menu not loading: Your mobile operator may not support *99#. Contact your operator to confirm support
Safety Tips for UPI Without Internet
- Always use the mobile number registered with your bank
- Never disclose your UPI PIN to anyone
- Adhere to the per-transaction limits, such as ₹5,000 for *99#
- Be aware of any USSD fee your operator might charge
- Stay vigilant against fraud and do not authorize unexpected requests
Whether you are travelling, in an area with poor connectivity, or facing a temporary network outage, knowing how to use UPI without internet is valuable. Offline UPI options like *99#, UPI Lite, UPI Lite X, and UPI 123PAY ensure you can pay securely and conveniently in most situations.
FAQs on Offline UPI Payments
Can I make an offline UPI payment?
Yes. Dial *99# from your registered mobile number to make payments without internet on both smartphones and feature phones. The method is widely supported and secure.
How do I pay without internet using UPI?
Dial *99# from your registered mobile number, select the payment option, enter the recipient details and amount, and confirm with your UPI PIN. Other offline alternatives include UPI Lite and UPI 123PAY for feature phone users.
What is the process of an offline payment?
Dial *99#, choose the desired service, enter the recipient’s details and transfer amount, then confirm with your UPI PIN. The transfer is processed instantly and you receive confirmation.
What is the code to make a UPI payment without internet?
*99# is the standard code to access UPI services without internet. Dial the code from your registered mobile number and follow the menu prompts.
What is the limit for offline UPI?
For *99#, the per-transaction limit is ₹5,000. For UPI Lite and UPI Lite X, the limit is typically ₹500 per debit with a maximum wallet balance of around ₹2,000.