How to Use UPI in India
India's most popular payment method – explained simply
Method 1: Scan Merchant QR Code
- 1
👀 Look for the UPI QR code at the merchant (PhonePe/GPay/Paytm sticker)
- 2
📱 Open any UPI app (PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, BHIM)
- 3
🔲 Tap "Scan & Pay"
- 4
📷 Point your camera at the QR code
- 5
💰 Verify the amount (preset or enter manually)
- 6
👤 Confirm the merchant name
- 7
🔐 Enter your UPI PIN (6-digit)
- 8
✅ Transfer complete in seconds!
Method 2: Pay via UPI ID
- 1
Open your UPI app
- 2
Tap "Transfer" or "Send Money"
- 3
Enter the recipient's UPI ID (e.g., name@okicici)
- 4
Verify the name shown
- 5
Enter the amount
- 6
Enter your UPI PIN
- 7
Done!
Method 3: Pay via Phone Number
Registered UPI users can enter the recipient's phone number directly instead of a UPI ID — the app automatically resolves it to the correct UPI ID, provided the recipient has registered their number.
Method 4: Collect (Request Money)
Merchants and freelancers can send a "Collect Request" to a customer's UPI ID. The customer receives a notification and only needs to confirm the payment with their PIN — useful for invoices and recurring payments.
UPI PIN – What You Need to Know
- • UPI PIN is NOT your banking PIN
- • Set separately in each UPI app
- • 6 digits (or 4 for some banks)
- • Required for every transaction
- • Never share with anyone
UPI ID Format Explained
| UPI ID | Bank/Provider |
|---|---|
| name@okicici | ICICI via third-party |
| number@paytm | Paytm Payments Bank |
| name@ybl | PhonePe (Yes Bank) |
| name@oksbi | Google Pay (SBI) |
| name@upi | BHIM |
| name@axl | Axis Bank |
| name@hdfcbank | HDFC Bank |
| name@ibl | IndusInd Bank |
Common UPI Problems
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| "Invalid UPI ID" | Check spelling, use the correct handle |
| "Transaction failed" | Usually refunded within 24h |
| "Limit exceeded" | ₹1 Lakh per transaction max |
| "Bank server down" | Try again or use a different app |
| PIN forgotten | Reset it in your banking app |
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