"India’s new UPI offline payment system is empowering millions without internet access to send and receive money effortlessly using USSD (*99#), UPI 123PAY, and Samsung Wallet biometric payments."
India’s UPI Offline Payment Revolution: Cashless Even Without Internet
In a country where digital inclusion is rapidly expanding, India’s new UPI offline payment ecosystem has become a game changer. Millions of people—especially those in rural areas or without smartphones—can now make secure digital payments without internet access. Let’s explore how these methods work and who can benefit most.
How Do UPI Offline Payments Work?
UPI offline transactions currently operate through two major systems: USSD (*99#) and UPI 123PAY. Additionally, Samsung Wallet is bringing biometric UPI payments into the mix for smartphone users.
1. USSD (*99#) Method
This method works on any mobile phone—no internet or smartphone needed. Simply dial *99# and follow the menu prompts to send money, check balances, or pay bills.
- Transaction Limit: ₹5,000 per transaction and up to ₹1 lakh daily.
- Charges: Nominal fee per use (varies by bank).
- Supported by: All major Indian banks.
- Language: English and Hindi for most menus.
2. UPI 123PAY – Smart Offline Payments for Feature Phones
Launched by NPCI and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in 2022, UPI 123PAY allows feature phone users to perform UPI transactions without internet. It offers four major modes:
- IVR Payments: Dial your bank’s IVR number, select options via voice menus (available in up to 13 languages), enter your UPI PIN, and pay.
- Missed Call Payments: Give a missed call to your bank’s number and receive an automated call back to complete the transaction.
- Feature Phone App: Some feature phones include a preloaded UPI app to send or receive money—even scan QR codes if a camera exists.
- Sound-Based Payments: Transfer payment details securely using sound waves instead of QR or NFC.
3. Samsung Wallet Biometric UPI Payments
Expected to launch in late 2025, Samsung Wallet will enable UPI payments using biometric authentication. Users can pay with a fingerprint or face scan—ideal for small-ticket transactions. From 2026 onwards, new Samsung smartphones will come with UPI setup during device onboarding.
Who Benefits the Most?
- Rural and remote citizens with limited or no internet connectivity.
- Over 400 million feature phone users in India.
- Elderly or less tech-savvy individuals who prefer voice-based or missed call systems.
Security and Authentication
Both USSD (*99#) and UPI 123PAY require UPI PIN verification, ensuring two-factor authentication (2FA). Transactions are protected under RBI and NPCI security standards, making them as safe as online UPI apps.
How to Set Up and Start Using UPI Offline
- Register your mobile number with your bank for UPI services.
- Link your mobile number and bank account.
- Set a UPI PIN (via bank app or branch).
- For *99#: Dial
*99#and follow menu prompts to register and transact. - For UPI 123PAY: Dial your bank’s IVR number or give a missed call to initiate registration.
- For Samsung Wallet: Follow the on-screen instructions after initial device setup.
Comparison: UPI 123PAY vs *99# (USSD)
| Feature | UPI 123PAY | *99# (USSD) |
|---|---|---|
| Launched | March 2022 by RBI & NPCI | Before UPI 123PAY |
| Languages | ~13 Indian languages | English, Hindi |
| Transaction Limit | ₹10,000 per txn, ₹1 lakh daily | ₹5,000 per txn, ₹1 lakh daily |
| Who Can Use | Feature phone or voice phone users | Any mobile user |
| Security | UPI PIN (2FA) | UPI PIN (2FA) |
FAQs
1. Can I use UPI offline without a smartphone?
Yes! Both *99# and UPI 123PAY are designed for feature phones and do not require internet access or a smartphone.
2. Are offline UPI payments safe?
Absolutely. They use the same UPI PIN and two-factor authentication system that protects online UPI apps.
3. Is there a fee for offline UPI transactions?
Some banks may charge a nominal fee per USSD transaction, typically under ₹1.5, depending on your provider.
