Digital payments through UPI (Unified Payments Interface) have become a big part of everyday life in India. But with the ease of sending money quickly comes the risk of sending it to the wrong UPI ID. A small typing mistake can lead to a major headache. However, if you act fast and follow the right process, you can still recover your money.
Take These Steps Immediately After Sending Money to the Wrong UPI
The moment you realise that the money has gone to the wrong UPI address, do not panic. First, take a screenshot of the transaction. This acts as solid proof of the mistake. Note down key details like the transaction ID, date, time, amount, and the UPI ID or name of the person who received the money.
After that, contact your bank either through a customer care number or by visiting the nearest branch. Share all the transaction details. The bank can then initiate the refund process if the wrong recipient has not already withdrawn the money.
File a Complaint with NPCI if Needed
If the bank cannot help, or the refund doesn’t happen quickly, you can also raise a complaint directly with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). NPCI has a dedicated UPI complaint portal that helps users deal with such cases.
Here’s how you can file a complaint online:
- Step 1: Visit the NPCI UPI Dispute Redressal page
- Step 2: Click on the ‘Dispute’ tab
- Step 3: Select the type of transaction – either person-to-person or person-to-merchant
- Step 4: Fill in the details like your transaction ID, UPI ID, amount, date, mobile number, bank name, and upload your bank statement
- Step 5: Submit the form
NPCI will investigate your complaint and try to resolve it at the earliest. It’s important to file the complaint within three days of the mistaken transaction. Delays can reduce your chances of getting your money back.
Know the UPI Limits to Avoid Bigger Mistakes
UPI has daily transaction limits. Understanding these can help prevent large losses in case of errors:
- General UPI transfers: ₹1 lakh per transaction
- Insurance and capital market payments: ₹2 lakh
- IPO applications: up to ₹5 lakh
(Note: These limits may vary from bank to bank.)
What If Nothing Works?
If the issue is not resolved within 30 days by either your bank or NPCI, you can file a complaint with the RBI Banking Ombudsman. This body investigates unresolved banking disputes between customers and financial institutions. You can file this complaint online through the official RBI website.
Disclaimer: Refund success depends on factors like the response of the recipient and timely action. Always double-check the UPI ID before sending money.
Sources: TV9 Hindi, NPCI, RBI
