In today’s digital era, mobile apps have become an inseparable part of daily life. From social media platforms to online payments, most of our routine tasks depend heavily on internet connectivity. Popular UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and BHIM are widely used for quick and secure money transfers. But what happens when your internet suddenly stops working?

Situations like network outages, low data balance, or poor connectivity can make online payments difficult. However, many users are unaware that UPI transactions can still be completed even without an active internet connection. Thanks to a special service launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), users can send and receive money offline using a simple USSD-based system.

What Is Offline UPI Transaction Service?

The offline UPI transaction service works through the *99# USSD code. This feature was introduced by NPCI to ensure that digital payments remain accessible even without smartphones or internet access. The service is compatible with both smartphones and feature phones, making it especially useful in rural areas or during network disruptions.

Once activated, users can perform basic banking operations such as sending money, checking account balance, and viewing transaction history using simple keypad inputs.

Things You Need Before Using Offline UPI

Before using offline UPI payments, ensure the following requirements are met:

• Your mobile number must be linked to your bank account

• The same registered SIM must be inserted in your phone

• One-time registration on the BHIM app is required

• Your bank account must have sufficient balance

• UPI PIN should already be set

Once these steps are completed, you can make UPI payments without internet access.

How to Transfer Money via UPI Without Internet: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to send money offline using *99# service:

Step 1:
Open the dial pad on your phone and dial *99#, then press the call button.

Step 2:
A menu will appear on your screen with multiple options, including:

• Send Money

• Receive Money

• Check Balance

• My Profile

• Pending Requests

• Transactions

• UPI PIN

Step 3:
To send money, reply by pressing 1 on your dial pad.

Step 4:
Choose how you want to send money. You can transfer funds using:

• Mobile number

• UPI ID

• Bank account number and IFSC code

Step 5:
Enter the beneficiary’s details carefully as prompted.

Step 6:
Type the amount you wish to transfer.

Step 7:
Enter your UPI PIN to authorize the transaction and confirm.

Once the process is completed, the amount will be transferred successfully if all details are correct.

Advantages of Offline UPI Transactions

• Works without mobile data or Wi-Fi

• Can be used on non-smartphones

• Useful during emergencies and network failures

• Secure and regulated by NPCI

• Easy to use with basic phone functions

Important Points to Remember

• USSD-based services may charge a small operator fee

• Response time may be slower compared to app-based UPI

• Keep your UPI PIN confidential

• Ensure correct beneficiary details before confirming

Conclusion

Offline UPI transactions are a powerful solution for situations where internet access is unavailable. By using the *99# service, users can continue making digital payments without disruption. Completing the one-time setup on the BHIM app ensures you are always prepared, even during unexpected network outages. In a country where UPI plays a major role in everyday payments, this feature proves to be both practical and reliable.