How To Make Offline UPI Payments?

Over the past few years, UPI has simplified our lives in many ways. It is also safe to say that the primary reason why many have stopped carrying cash along with them is due to the availability of UPI payments anywhere they go.

But, what happens when you have to make an offline UPI payment? Is such a transaction even possible?

Well, to help you find solutions for your offline UPI payment dilemmas, we have listed down the methods where you can easily make offline payments using your UPI accounts and how alternatively you can use the Airtel Thanks App to complete your bill payments and earn exciting rewards.

Also Read: 5 New Rules related to UPI that you must know

• *Dial 99# from Your Mobile

This dialling service works on any mobile phone, whether it’s a smartphone or a feature phone. Ensure that the mobile number you are using is linked to your bank account and UPI. 

• Select Your Preferred Language: 

After dialling *99#, a welcome screen will appear on your smartphone, prompting you to choose your preferred language. Choose the language you want to communicate in. 

• Enter Your Bank’s Short Name

After choosing the preferred language, you will be asked to enter the first three letters of your bank’s name or the first four digits of your bank’s IFSC code. This helps the system identify your bank easily.

• Enter Your UPI PIN

For security, you will need to enter your UPI PIN to authenticate yourself for the transaction. 

• Select the Transaction Type

A menu will appear with various options. Choose the type of transaction you want to perform. For example, select ‘Send Money’ for transferring funds.

• Enter Recipient’s Details

You will need to enter the recipient’s mobile number, UPI ID, or bank account details, along with the amount you wish to transfer.

• Confirm the Transaction

Verify the details you have entered and confirm the transaction. The amount will be transferred from your account to the recipient’s account.

Also Read: Make UPI Payments through Credit Cards

Benefits Of Offline UPI Payment Methods

• Accessibility: 

Offline UPI payment methods are accessible on any mobile device, regardless of internet connectivity. This way you don’t have to worry about internet connection while making payments.

• Convenience: 

Offline UPI payment is quite easy to use, making it convenient for everyone, especially those in rural areas with limited internet access. 

• Security:

Most transactions are secured with a UPI PIN, ensuring your financial data remains protected. So, no matter whether you are paying for a rural or urban area to you don’t have security issues. 

• Speed

Despite being offline, transactions are processed quickly, making it an efficient alternative to online methods.

Additional Offline UPI Payment Methods

Apart from the offline UPI services, you can also make UPI payments through SMS and missed calls, although these methods are less common and may not be supported by all banks.

SMS-Based UPI Payments include:

• Initiate Transactions via SMS: Some banks allow you to initiate UPI transactions via SMS. You need to send a predefined SMS format to a specified number.
• Follow Instructions: The bank will guide you through the process via SMS, similar to the USSD method.

On the other hand, missed call-based UPI payments include: 

• Missed Call to a Designated Number: Dial a designated number provided by your bank and hang up after a ring.
• Receive Callback: You will receive a callback or SMS guiding you through the UPI transaction process.

Using The Airtel Thanks App for Payments and Rewards

While offline UPI payment methods are convenient, having internet access allows you to unlock more advanced features and benefits through apps like Airtel Thanks.

Completing Payments on Airtel Thanks App

• Install the application: Begin by installing the Airtel Thanks Application on your mobile device. 
• Sign In or Register: Don’t forget to sign in with your mobile number or register if you’re a new user to use the application. 
• Scroll to the Payment section: Go to the ‘Payments’ section within the application.
• Phone Recharge: Select the ‘Recharge’ option, enter your mobile number, choose your plan, and complete the payment.
• Utility Bill Payments: For paying utility bills, select the ‘Bills’ option. You can pay electricity, water, gas, and other utility bills by entering the necessary details and confirming the payment.

Also Read: What is UPI and how does it work?

Making UPI payments without the internet is a practical solution for times when connectivity is an issue. By using offline UPI payment methods such as dialling, SMS, or missed call methods can help boost seamless UPI transactions anytime and anywhere.

While these methods provide great convenience, the Airtel Thanks app offers a comprehensive platform for managing payments and earning rewards, enhancing your overall financial experience. Whether online or offline, these tools ensure that you are always equipped to handle your financial transactions smoothly and efficiently.