Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become a convenient way to transfer money and make everyday digital payments in India. Users can send and receive funds through their mobile phones within seconds, making the service useful for individuals, small shopkeepers and other businesses.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) recently highlighted the benefits of UPI through a post on its official X account. The bank emphasised that UPI makes daily payments simple, accessible and transparent. It also noted that person-to-person transactions generally do not attract charges, while eligible merchant transactions may qualify for zero Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).
PNB UPI Update: Are There Any Charges for Money Transfers?
People using UPI to send money to friends, relatives or other individuals can generally make person-to-person transfers without paying transaction charges.
The facility allows users to transfer money directly from their bank accounts using a UPI-enabled application. Its ease of use has made it a popular option for everyday payments, from small purchases to larger transfers within the applicable transaction limits.
PNB has also highlighted the role of UPI in building a more accessible digital payment ecosystem for the future.
UPI Benefits for Shopkeepers and Small Businesses
UPI QR codes allow shopkeepers and merchants to accept digital payments without requiring customers to pay in cash. Customers can scan a QR code and transfer money directly to the merchant’s account.
According to PNB’s post, eligible merchants receiving up to ₹1 lakh in monthly payments through QR codes can benefit from a zero Merchant Discount Rate (MDR). This helps qualifying businesses accept digital payments without incurring MDR charges on eligible transactions.
However, the zero-MDR benefit depends on the applicable eligibility conditions and should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every merchant or transaction is exempt from all charges.
UPI Lite: A Convenient Option for Small Payments
People who regularly make small digital payments can consider using UPI Lite, a feature available through supported UPI applications.
Once activated, UPI Lite allows users to make eligible low-value payments without entering their UPI PIN for every transaction. This can make frequent everyday payments quicker and more convenient.
Users should check the applicable transaction limits and features within their chosen UPI application before using the service.
UPI Safety Tips and Daily Transaction Limits
UPI users should remain alert to common digital payment scams. You do not need to enter your UPI PIN to receive money. If someone asks you to enter your PIN or scan a QR code to receive funds, verify the request carefully before proceeding. A UPI PIN is generally required when authorising payments or transfers from your account.
Users should also be aware of UPI transaction limits. Standard UPI payment limits can be up to ₹1 lakh per transaction, although the permitted amount may vary according to the bank, application and type of transaction.
Before making a large payment, check the applicable limit with your bank or UPI service provider. Following these precautions can help users make digital payments more safely and avoid unnecessary transaction difficulties.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only. UPI charges, merchant eligibility, transaction limits and available features may vary depending on the bank, payment application and applicable regulations. Readers should consult Punjab National Bank, their UPI service provider or official NPCI guidelines for the latest and most accurate information before making transactions.