A Unified Payment Interface (UPI) is a digital payment system that allows the user to transfer money instantly from one bank to another using just a UPI ID or mobile number. It frees you from the need to visit the bank for basic transactions and makes the transactions faster and safer. However, the UPI ID sometimes gets blocked for certain reasons, like multiple incorrect PIN attempts, suspicious activities, or bank-related issues. A blocked UPI ID can be disappointing, but it can be easily unblocked by following some steps. In this blog, we will explore the reasons due to why a UPI ID gets blocked and also step-by-step guides to follow on different platforms to unblock UPI IDs.
Frequent Causes of UPI ID Being Blocked
Incorrect PIN Attempts:
Entering the incorrect UPI PIN many times can lead to your UPI ID being blocked for security purposes. Typically, UPI apps permit only 3 to 5 failed tries before restricting access.
Suspicious Activity:
If any unusual activity is detected linked to your UPI ID, like an irregular pattern from an unidentified location, your UPI ID can be blocked to safeguard your account from potential fraud.
Linked Bank Account Issues:
If there is a problem with the bank account to which your UPI ID is linked, such as a lack of sufficient balance, account freezing, or blockage, then it leads to UPI ID blockage.
Steps to unblock UPI ID for Different UPI Apps
Many apps like Paytm, Google Pay (GPay), Phone Pay, and Super Money App provide a smooth transaction facility through UPI ID. But many times the UPI ID gets blocked due to various reasons. Each app follows a similar procedure to unblock the UPI ID. Below are the apps which you can use to unblock UPI ID:
- Step 1: Log in to your account using your registration credentials.
- Step 2: Click to open your profile section and look for “UPI & Payment Settings”.
- Step 3: Check the status if there is any indication of a blocked UPI ID.
- Step 4: If your UPI ID is blocked, the app will most likely ask for identity verification, which will be done using your mobile number or debit card.
- Step 5: An OTP will be sent to your mobile number, which you need to enter to successfully verify your identity.
- Step 6: Depending on the reason why your UPI ID is blocked, the app can ask you to set a new UPI PIN.
- Step 7: After successful verification, your UPI ID will be unblocked. You will also receive a confirmation message.
By following these steps you can easily unblock the UPI ID on any app and continue the hassle-free payments. If the issue is not solved even after following these steps, contact your bank through customer care or visit the branch.
Ways to Prevent Your UPI ID from Getting Blocked
If your UPI ID is blocked, you can follow these general steps to resolve this issue. The specific steps may vary depending on your bank account and UPI app; however, the basic procedure remains the same.
- Step 1: First, download the UPI app if it has not already been downloaded to your mobile. Then, log in using your credentials.
- Step 2: In the app menu, look for the “Help” section or “Settings” option.
- Step 3: Find the “Reset UPI PIN” or “Blocked UPI ID” option and open it.
- Step 4: After providing your necessary details, you will need to verify your identity. The app might require you to provide the last six digits of the debit card number along with its expiry date.
- Step 5: The app may give you the option to reset your UPI PIN. But this step depends on the app being used and also the reason due to which the UPI ID was blocked.
- Step 6: After your verification is completed successfully, your ID will be unblocked. You will get a confirmation message within the app.
It’s crucial to understand that you should never share a UPI ID with anyone. Your verification will also be done through your debit card details or mobile number.
Tips to prevent future UPI ID/VPA ID blockages:
You have to adapt some safety practices to avoid chances of UPI ID or VPA ID blockages in future. This will help you to ensure uninterrupted UPI transactions:
- Memories Your UPI PIN: Set an easy PIN and memories it carefully because entering the wrong UPI PIN is one of the major reasons why it gets blocked. Enter the PIN attentively and avoid making mistakes while entering.
- Stay Alert to Scams and Fraud: You can get fraudulent SMS, calls or E-mails trying to fetch your details and UPI PIN. Beware of such scammers. Do not share your UPI PIN with anyone. They can attempt to access your bank account from your UPI PIN.
- Report Any Unusual Activities: If any suspicious activity is noticed by you on your UPI app or any transaction not made by you then report it immediately to the app provider and the bank that your UPI ID is linked to.
What steps should I take if my UPI ID is still blocked after attempting all solutions?
If one’s UPI ID is still blocked despite testing all the suggested fixes, reach out to customer support of your bank or visit the nearest branch for further assistance.
How long does it take to unblock a UPI ID?
The time it will take to unblock a UPI ID completely depends upon the reason due to which it was blocked. It also depends on the UPI apps you were using as the time taken varies for different apps. Usually, the time taken is from a couple of minutes to some hours.
Is there a fee for unblocking a UPI ID?
No, unblocking of the UPI ID is completely free. UPI apps offer this service at no cost. Banks also do not charge anything for this service.
