*Complete Guide to Offline UPI Transactions Using 99# Service

In the era of digital payments, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) has revolutionized how we transfer money, pay bills, and shop online. However, most people associate UPI payments with mobile apps and active internet connections. What many don’t know is that it’s absolutely possible to make UPI payments without internet connection using a little-known feature called *99#.

In this massive blog, we’ll dive deep into:

What *99# UPI service is
How to activate it
How to use it step-by-step
Security, benefits, limitations, and real-world use cases
Troubleshooting and expert tips

*What is 99# Service?

The *99# service is an innovative USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) based mobile banking service introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It enables users to make UPI payments without internet connection, using just their mobile phone and a registered SIM.

**Key Features of 99# for UPI Payments:*

Works on all GSM phones (smartphones and feature phones)
No data or internet connection required
Available in multiple Indian languages
Compatible with most Indian banks
Accessible 24×7

This makes it ideal for users in rural or low-connectivity areas, or those who have run out of mobile data.

*Who Can Use 99# for UPI Payments Without Internet Connection?

How to Make UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

To use *99# and make UPI payments without internet connection, you must meet the following criteria:

A mobile number linked to your bank account
UPI registration completed via your bank app or BHIM
A UPI PIN set up previously using internet access (only once)

Once the initial setup is done (with internet), you can make payments anytime—even offline.

*How to Activate 99# for UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

Follow these simple steps to activate *99#:

**Step 1: Dial 99# on your phone*

Open your phone’s dialer
Enter *99# and press call

Step 2: Select Your Bank

You will see a list of banks or may be asked to enter the first 3 letters or IFSC code of your bank.

Step 3: Enter Last 6 Digits of Your Debit Card

This is used to verify and link your account.

Step 4: Create UPI PIN (if not already done)

This will be your secure 4-6 digit UPI transaction PIN.

Now your account is ready for UPI payments without internet connection using the *99# service.

*How to Use 99# to Make UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

Once registered, follow these steps every time you want to make a payment:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Dial *99#
- Wait for a menu to appear.
Choose “Send Money” (Option 1)
You’ll see options like:
- Send Money
- Request Money
- Check Balance
- My Profile
- Pending Requests
- Transactions
Select Payment Method
You can send money using:
- Mobile number
- UPI ID
- Bank Account & IFSC
- Saved Beneficiaries
Enter Recipient Details
- For mobile number: Type the number linked to recipient’s UPI
- For UPI ID: Format should be like xyz@okaxis
- For bank transfer: Enter account number + IFSC
Enter Amount and Remarks (Optional)
Enter Your UPI PIN
Transaction Confirmation
- You’ll receive an SMS confirming success or failure.
- No internet needed!

*Languages Supported by 99# UPI Service

To make UPI payments without internet connection more accessible, the *99# platform is available in 13 Indian languages:

Hindi
English
Marathi
Bengali
Punjabi
Kannada
Tamil
Telugu
Malayalam
Assamese
Gujarati
Odia
Urdu

To change language, you’ll get the option when you dial *99#.

*Supported Banks for 99# UPI

Nearly every major bank in India supports *99# for UPI payments without internet connection, including:

State Bank of India (SBI)
HDFC Bank
ICICI Bank
Axis Bank
Bank of Baroda
Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Kotak Mahindra Bank
Canara Bank
Union Bank
Yes Bank
IDFC First
IndusInd
Central Bank
UCO Bank

…and many more. NPCI keeps the list updated regularly.

Benefits of Using UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

Here’s why you should consider using this method:

Benefit	Description
✅ No Internet Needed	Works with zero data
✅ Saves Time	Faster than some mobile apps
✅ Safe and Secure	UPI PIN encrypted
✅ Easy to Use	Menu-based prompts
✅ Widely Accepted	Send to mobile, UPI ID, bank

This can be a lifesaver during emergencies, while traveling, or when mobile networks are unstable.

*Limitations of 99# Service

Despite being helpful, there are a few caveats:

Limitation	Details
⚠️ Transaction Limit	₹5,000 per transaction
⚠️ Daily Cap	₹10,000 per day limit
⚠️ No QR Code	You can’t scan and pay like app-based UPI
⚠️ USSD Charges	Some telecom providers may charge ₹0.50 per session

Still, for those who need UPI payments without internet connection, it’s a small trade-off.

*Safety Tips While Using 99# for UPI

Your security is paramount. Follow these tips:

Never share your UPI PIN with anyone
Avoid using *99# in public places
Always double-check the recipient’s details
Do not save UPI details in shared phones
Use a phone lock for added security

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: No menu after dialing *99#
Solution: Check if your number is linked with your bank account.

Problem: Invalid UPI PIN
Solution: Use your bank app to reset UPI PIN using your debit card.

Problem: “Service not available” error
Solution: Try again in a few minutes, or contact your mobile provider.

Problem: Transaction fails
Solution: Check balance, limit, or use another bank account.

Real-World Example: How People Use UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

Ramesh, a shopkeeper in a remote village in Madhya Pradesh, accepts payments using *99# because:

Internet is unreliable
His feature phone has no data pack
Customers can pay via mobile number

His sales improved once he advertised “UPI Accepted – No Internet Needed!”

FAQs – UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

*Q: Is 99# available for Jio, Airtel, and BSNL users?
A: Yes, it works on all GSM networks.

*Q: Can I check my bank balance using 99#?
A: Yes, select the “Check Balance” option.

*Q: Can I receive money using 99#?
A: You can request money, but the sender must approve it via UPI.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

UPI has democratized digital payments in India. But *99# takes it a step further by ensuring digital inclusivity, allowing users to perform secure, instant UPI payments without internet connection. Whether you’re in a metro city, a train, or a remote village, you don’t need to rely on data packs anymore to send or receive money.

So next time your internet goes down, just dial *99#—and you’re back in business.

Focus Keyword Summary:

Used keyword “UPI payments without internet connection” 12+ times
Optimized for SEO, beginner-friendly, practical, and richly informative

Would you like a version formatted for publishing on WordPress or with visuals added?

You said:

make it big

ChatGPT said:

Absolutely! Below is a significantly expanded and extremely detailed blog on:

How to Make UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

*The Ultimate Guide to Offline UPI Payments Using 99# Service

Introduction: The Growing Need for Offline Digital Payments

In today’s fast-paced world, digital transactions have become the backbone of financial convenience. With UPI (Unified Payments Interface), India has witnessed a remarkable transformation—people can pay with just a few taps on their smartphones. However, what happens when you run out of data, lose internet access, or live in an area with no connectivity?

This is where the ability to make UPI payments without internet connection becomes a game-changer.

Whether you’re:

A rural user with a basic phone,
A traveler in a no-network zone,
Someone who’s run out of data,
you can still send and receive money instantly—thanks to *99#, India’s USSD-based mobile banking service.

This mega guide will cover EVERYTHING you need to know about making UPI payments without internet connection, including step-by-step instructions, bank support, common errors, safety tips, and real-life use cases.

What is UPI and Why It Matters?

Before diving into offline methods, let’s understand why UPI is so essential.

UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is an instant real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It enables users to link multiple bank accounts to a single mobile app and conduct seamless fund transfers, bill payments, and purchases—24/7.

Key features:

Instant money transfers
Zero or minimal charges
Inter-bank compatibility
Bill payments, QR codes, online shopping
UPI ID & UPI PIN for secure authentication

However, the catch is most UPI services like Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM, and others require a stable internet connection. This becomes problematic when:

Internet services are down
You’re in a remote location
You’re using a basic phone
You don’t have an active data plan

Thankfully, you can make UPI payments without internet connection using a powerful tool: *USSD-based 99# service.

*Understanding 99# USSD-Based UPI Service

Launched in 2016 by NPCI in collaboration with the telecom sector, *99# allows users to perform banking functions using USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) technology.

📌 What Is USSD?

USSD is the same technology you use to check your mobile balance (e.g., dialing *121#). It works over GSM networks and does not require any internet or data connection.

**✅ Key Highlights of *99# UPI Service:**

Runs on any GSM mobile phone (2G/3G/4G)
Available in 13 Indian languages
Offers all basic UPI functionalities
Used for fund transfers, balance check, transaction history, and more
Secured by UPI PIN authentication

With *99#, you can send money, request payments, check balances, and much more—completely offline.

*Eligibility for Using 99# UPI Service

To use *99# for UPI payments without internet connection, you must fulfill the following criteria:

Requirement	Details
✅ Mobile Number	Must be linked to your bank account
✅ Bank Account	Should be UPI-enabled
✅ UPI Registration	Completed via BHIM or any bank UPI app (initially requires internet)
✅ UPI PIN	Must be set during UPI registration
✅ Active Telecom Service	USSD must be supported by your mobile operator (Jio, Airtel, Vi, BSNL)

Once set up, you never need internet again to make payments.

*Step-by-Step Guide to Activate and Use 99# for UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

**🔹 Step 1: Dial *99# from your registered mobile number**

You will see a menu with 7-8 options:
- Send Money
- Request Money
- Check Balance
- My Profile
- Pending Requests
- Transactions
- UPI PIN

🔹 Step 2: Select “Send Money” (Option 1)

You will be prompted to select the payment mode:

Mobile Number
UPI ID
Saved Beneficiary
Account Number + IFSC

🔹 Step 3: Enter Recipient Details

Depending on the chosen mode, enter:

Their mobile number
Their UPI ID (e.g., rohit@okaxis)
Their bank account number + IFSC code

🔹 Step 4: Enter the Amount

You will be asked how much you want to send.

🔹 Step 5: Add Remarks (Optional)

You can include a note such as “Rent” or “Milk payment.”

🔹 Step 6: Enter Your UPI PIN

This authenticates the transaction.

🔹 Step 7: Receive Confirmation

You’ll get an SMS confirmation instantly.

*Complete List of 99# USSD Menu Options

Option No	Function
1	Send Money
2	Request Money
3	Check Balance
4	My Profile
5	Pending Requests
6	Transactions
7	UPI PIN Change/Reset

This provides all core UPI functions—without internet.

*Supported Banks for 99# UPI Payments

Over 80+ banks support *99# USSD payments including:

SBI (State Bank of India)
HDFC Bank
ICICI Bank
Axis Bank
Bank of Baroda
Punjab National Bank
Union Bank
Canara Bank
Yes Bank
Kotak Mahindra Bank
IDBI Bank
Indian Overseas Bank
UCO Bank
Bank of Maharashtra
Central Bank of India

You can check the complete updated list on the NPCI website or by contacting your bank.

*Languages Available on 99# Service

To make UPI payments without internet connection user-friendly, *99# supports multiple Indian languages:

Hindi
English
Tamil
Telugu
Kannada
Malayalam
Gujarati
Bengali
Marathi
Punjabi
Assamese
Odia
Urdu

Language selection appears on the first dial attempt.

Benefits of UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

Here’s why *99# is a powerful backup or even primary solution for many users:

Benefit	Description
✅ Works Offline	No need for Wi-Fi or mobile data
✅ Any Phone	Compatible with basic feature phones
✅ Easy to Use	Simple numeric menu navigation
✅ Inclusive	Supports regional languages
✅ Nationwide Reach	Available across India
✅ Secure	Protected by UPI PIN
✅ Ideal for Emergencies	Use it when apps fail or data ends

This is a lifeline for the underserved and digitally excluded population.

*Limitations of 99# UPI Payments

Limitation	Explanation
⚠️ Daily Transaction Limit	Max ₹10,000/day
⚠️ Per Transaction Limit	₹5,000 per transaction
⚠️ Not for QR Scanning	You can’t scan barcodes or pay in apps
⚠️ Session Timeout	USSD menu times out in 90 seconds
⚠️ Service Fee	Some telecom providers charge ₹0.50 per session

Despite this, it is still one of the most accessible and cost-effective digital payment tools.

Real-Life Use Cases: Where This Really Helps

Small Kirana Stores in Villages
Accept payments offline even with no Wi-Fi or smartphones.
During Natural Disasters or Power Cuts
When internet is down, you can still pay for essentials.
In Trains or Forest Areas
No internet? No problem! Just use *99# and pay.
Older People Without Smartphones
They can still transfer money to family or pay bills.

Safety and Security Tips

Though *99# is secure, follow these best practices:

Never share your UPI PIN
Always lock your phone with a password or biometric
Avoid making payments in crowded places
Double-check recipient details before confirming
Do not store UPI PIN or bank info in SMS or notes

*Troubleshooting Common 99# Errors

Error	Solution
*99# not working	Check if your mobile number is linked to the bank
UPI PIN not accepted	Reset PIN using bank app with internet
Session expired	Redial *99# and complete within 90 seconds
Recipient not found	Re-check UPI ID or account number
SMS not received	Check mobile network or inbox limit

FAQs About UPI Payments Without Internet Connection

*Q: Is 99# free?
A: Some operators charge ₹0.50 per session.

Q: Can I use it on a Jio SIM?
A: Yes, it works on Jio, Airtel, BSNL, Vi—on GSM networks.

Q: Is it safe to use UPI this way?
A: Yes, it’s encrypted and requires a secure UPI PIN.

*Q: Can I request money using 99#?
A: Yes, option 2 allows you to request from others.

Conclusion: Empowering Every Indian with Offline Digital Payments

The ability to make UPI payments without internet connection is a revolutionary step towards inclusive financial access. Thanks to *99#, you don’t need a smartphone, a data plan, or even an app to send money securely. Whether you live in a remote village or are stuck in an offline situation in a metro city, *99# ensures that your digital payments continue seamlessly.

💡 If you haven’t tried *99# yet, now is the time. Set it up once—and you’ll always have a backup to go cashless, anytime, anywhere.

Please follow and like us:

Raju Kumar Top Marketer