How to Create UPI ID? Step-by-step Process

India's digital payment system has seen significant growth in recent years, with many people opting for digital transactions instead of carrying cash. This shift has been super convenient because it reduces the risk of losing money and allows users to earn rewards on their purchases. One of the main reasons behind this change is UPI (Unified Payments Interface), which has quickly become the most popular payment method in India, surpassing older systems like IMPS and NEFT.

If you want to get started with UPI, the first step is to create your own UPI ID. In this blog, we'll walk you through the process of setting up your unique UPI ID. So, let’s jump right in!

What is UPI ID?

A UPI ID is a virtual payment address that every user needs to have to use UPI services. This ID acts as a unique identifier for each user, helping banks keep track of their accounts. To create a UPI ID, you need to follow a specific format.

It usually looks like this: abcd@bank. In this format, "abcd" can be your first name, part of your email, or your mobile number, while "bank" refers to your bank's name or its initials. Sometimes, there may be additional letters or numbers added to the bank part.

How to Create UPI ID

Setting up a UPI ID is easy. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:

1. Select a UPI App: Start by choosing a UPI-enabled app. Some popular options include Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and Cred. Download the app that suits you best from your smartphone's app store.
2. Register: Open the app and sign up using your mobile number. You'll receive a One-Time Password (OTP) to verify your number.
3. Link Your Bank Account: After you’ve registered, you’ll need to connect your bank account. Choose your bank from the list and enter your account number and IFSC code. Some apps may ask for more verification steps.
4. Set Up Your UPI ID: Once your bank account is linked, the app will guide you to create your UPI ID. It usually follows the format [username]@[bankname], but you can customise it if the app allows. Pick something memorable.
5. Verify Your UPI ID: The app will check if your chosen UPI ID is available. If it’s free, it will be linked to your bank account.

And that’s all there is to it! You’ll be ready to make transactions using your new UPI ID in no time.

How to Create UPI ID in Freo?

1. Step 1: Download and open the ‘Freo’ app.
2. Step 2: Register to the Freo app using your mobile number.
3. Step 3: click on the scan and pay button on the home screen.
4. Step 4: Click on the activate now button on the activation pop-up.
5. Step 5: Enter the OTP received on your mobile number. You have now successfully activated your UPI ID.

How to Create UPI ID in PhonePe?

Creating a UPI ID on PhonePe is pretty simple. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Step 1: First, download the PhonePe app from the app store.
2. Step 2: Open the app and either register a new account or sign in using your mobile number.
3. Step 3: Once you’re in, look for your profile picture in the top left corner and click on it. In the menu, find “Payment Methods” and click on “Add bank account.”
4. Step 4: Choose the bank account for which you want to create your UPI ID. You’ll then see an option to create your UPI ID.
5. Step 5: Just tap on “Proceed to add,” and you’re almost done. Your UPI ID will be created, and it will link to your chosen bank account.

How to Create UPI ID in Google Pay?

To create a UPI ID in Google Pay, just follow these steps:

1. Step 1: First, download and open the Google Pay app from your app store.
2. Step 2: Once inside, tap on your profile picture in the top right corner. Go to bank accounts and pick the one you've added.
3. Step 3: Find the option to edit your UPI ID. Tap the plus symbol (+) to create a new one. Finish the setup by following the simple steps, and you're good to go!

How to Create a UPI ID in Paytm?

Here's how to create a UPI ID in Paytm:

1. Step 1: Download and open the Paytm app from your app store. Sign in or register using your mobile number.
2. Step 2: Choose your bank from the list that appears. Make sure your mobile number is linked to your bank account.
3. Step 3: Paytm will automatically fetch your bank details.
4. Step 4: Set up your UPI PIN by entering your debit card details. Once everything’s confirmed, your UPI ID will be created and ready to use!

How to Create a UPI ID Without Debit Card?

To create a UPI ID without a debit card, you can use your Aadhaar card for verification. Here’s how to do it:

1. Step 1: Download any UPI app that supports Aadhaar-based verification.
2. Step 2: Open the app and go to the option to add your bank account. Select your bank from the list.
3. Step 3: Choose Aadhaar-based verification as your option.
4. Step 4: Enter the first six digits of your Aadhaar number to proceed. Set your UPI PIN, which you’ll use for transactions.
5. Step 5: You’ll get an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Enter it to verify. Confirm your UPI PIN by entering it again.

And that's it! You’re all set to use UPI without a debit card!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is VPA?

   A Virtual Payment Address (VPA) is kind of like an email ID but used for money transfers via UPI. It’s a unique identifier given to you when you sign up for UPI services to either send or receive payments.

2. Can I link multiple accounts to my UPI?

   Yes, you can link multiple bank accounts to UPI, even using different UPI apps on the same phone. It works for both the same or different accounts.

3. What’s an example of a UPI ID?

   Your UPI ID might look something like "yourname@ybl" or "90876543@okicici." The first part can be your name, email, or mobile number, while the part after "@" shows your bank's initials.

4. What’s the UPI transfer limit?

   The daily limit for UPI transfers can range from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, depending on your bank. Some banks even set limits for weekly or monthly transfers instead of just daily ones.