1. What is a UPI ID?
A UPI ID (Unified Payments Interface ID) is a unique identifier used within India’s Unified Payments Interface system to facilitate online fund transfers, collections, and payments. Acting as a “Virtual Payment Address” (VPA), it is directly linked to a user’s bank account, enabling instant interbank transfers without the need for bank account numbers or IFSC codes.
2. Common UPI ID Formats
A UPI ID typically follows the structure: Username@BankHandle. Examples include:
abcdef@ybl90876543@okicici
The prefix can be a name, phone number, or email handle, while the suffix represents the associated bank or payment app (e.g., YBL for Yes Bank/PhonePe, OKICICI for ICICI Bank/Google Pay).
3. How to Create a UPI ID
Download a UPI-enabled app (e.g., Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM, or MobiKwik).
Complete identity verification using the mobile number registered with your bank.
Select the bank account you wish to link.
Create your unique UPI ID and set a 4 or 6-digit UPI PIN (which serves as your transaction password).
4. How to Find Your UPI ID
Standard UPI Apps: Open the app → Tap on the menu/avatar → Select “Profile” to view your ID.
BHIM: Open the app → Go to “Profile” to see your ID via QR code or text.
Google Pay: Tap the profile icon (top right) → Select “Bank Account” → View the linked UPI ID.
5. How to Transfer Money via UPI ID
*Offline via 99#: Dial
*99#→ Select “Send Money” → Enter the recipient’s UPI ID → Enter the amount.Online via App: Search for a contact or manually enter a UPI ID, verify the recipient’s name, enter the amount, and input your UPI PIN to authorize the transaction.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is a UPI ID unique? A: Yes, every UPI ID is unique. While a user can create multiple UPI IDs across different apps, they can all be linked to the same primary bank account.
Q2: What are the requirements to use UPI? A: You need a bank account with a UPI-member bank and a mobile number that is active and registered with that bank.
Q3: What should I do if I forget my UPI PIN? A: You can reset it by going to the “Bank Account” or “Settings” section of your UPI app and selecting “Reset PIN” or “Forgot PIN.”