The banking sector is constantly evolving and revolutionizing the way individuals and businesses carry out financial transactions. Traditional methods of handling cash are being replaced by digital payment services that offer convenience, speed, and security. One such digital payment service is IMPS, which stands for Immediate Payment Service. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the meaning, full form, benefits, and differences between IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS.

What is the Meaning and Full Form of IMPS?

IMPS, which stands for Immediate Payment Service, is an online money transfer service offered by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It allows individuals and corporations to electronically transfer funds from one bank account to another in real time. IMPS transactions are available 24x7x365 days, providing users with the convenience of instant money transfer.

What is the Meaning and Full Form of NEFT?

NEFT, which stands for National Electronic Funds Transfer, is a fund transfer mode introduced and operated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). It enables individuals and organizations to electronically transfer money from one bank account to another. NEFT operates on a centralized payment system and is available 24x7x365 days. To initiate NEFT transfers, individuals can visit their bank branch.

What is the Meaning and Full Form of RTGS?

RTGS, which stands for Real-Time Gross Settlement, is another payment system that facilitates funds transfer from one account to another. However, unlike IMPS and NEFT allow processing of transactions in batches. RTGS is designed for high-value transactions only. To be eligible for an RTGS transfer, the transferable amount should be greater than or equal to 2 lakh.

What is the Difference Between NEFT and RTGS?

NEFT and RTGS were introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), while IMPS was introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). Collectively, these payment systems have simplified the fund transfer process, eliminating the need for frequent visits to bank branches and reducing transaction charges. However, each payment system has its unique characteristics. Let's take a closer look at the differences between NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS

When selecting between IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS for fund transfers, there are several factors to consider:

Transaction Charges: Each payment system may have different transaction fees. It is important to compare the charges for IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS and choose the option that offers the best value for money.

Bank Policies: Transaction charges may vary from bank to bank. It is advisable to find a bank that charges the least fee for fund transfers.

GST Charges: Consider the Goods and Services Tax (GST) charges levied per transaction when calculating the total payable fee.
Processing Time: Different payment systems may have varying processing times. It is important to choose a payment mode that meets your time requirements.

Transfer Limits: Each payment mode has a fund transfer limit.

Availability: IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS are available 24x7x365 days, allowing you to initiate fund transfers anytime.

Bulk Payments: NEFT Vs RTGS Vs IMPS

Contrary to common belief, IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS can also be used for making bulk payments. Bulk payments refer to a payment system that enables merchants to pay off numerous vendor payments in one go. This can include remitting employee salaries, reimbursing expenses, and sending pension contributions to a large list of people.

To make bulk payments via NEFT/RTGS/IMPS, merchants can follow these steps:

- Register for CMS - Bulk NEFT/RTGS/IMPS facility with an authorized bank
- Gain access to the web portal
- Upload the payment file or the bulk list
- Verify vendor details along with the amount payable
- Authorize the payment file or the bulk list
- Make the payment and generate Management Information System (MIS) reports

IMPS Vs NEFT Vs RTGS Vs Other Payment Modes

In addition to IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS, there are several other payment modes available in the market. These innovative payment systems have been introduced by the fintech industry, offering more sophisticated ways to make and receive instant payments. Let's explore some of these payment modes and understand how they differ from the traditional ones.

Unified Payment Interface (UPI): Regulated by the Reserve Bank of India, UPI facilitates inter-bank fund transfers through mobile phones. To use UPI, individuals need to download the UPI app on their smartphones, register with their mobile number, link their bank account(s), and create a UPI PIN. Common UPI apps in India include BHIM, Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe.

E-wallets: E-wallets are virtual wallets that enable cashless transactions anytime, anywhere. Similar to credit and debit cards, e-wallets can be loaded with money to make payments whenever needed. As a merchant, you can also accept payments in your e-wallet by registering with one of the platforms, obtaining your own QR code or e-wallet ID, and receiving payments from customers.

Payment Links: Payment links are a relatively new concept in the fintech industry. They allow merchants to send payment links to customers via email, SMS, or other communication channels. Customers can then open the link and make the payment using various options such as credit/debit cards, UPI, e-wallets, net banking, and more. Platforms like Enkash, enable merchants to generate payment links in bulk, saving time and reducing errors. Payment links are a quick, easy, and convenient way for both customers and merchants to make and receive payments.

Debit Cards: Debit cards are bank-issued payment cards that deduct money directly from the cardholder's bank account when making a purchase. They provide an excellent alternative to cash and offer the convenience of making instant payments using a chip and PIN. Debit cards can also be used contactless or through mobile devices.

Credit Cards: Credit cards are similar to debit cards, but with one key difference. Instead of deducting money from the bank account immediately, credit cards allow the cardholder to pay the amount at a later date, usually within 30 days. Credit cards come with a set credit limit that can be used for payments or purchases. They can be used for online payments, chip and PIN transactions, contactless payments, and mobile payments.

Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards are an alternative to cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Unlike debit and credit cards, prepaid cards do not require a bank account. Users can load money onto the card and use it until the balance runs out. Prepaid cards can be used for online payments, in-store purchases, and at any other location that accepts them.

The Role of Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in the Banking Sector
While IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS are the core banking services that have improved fund transfer processes, they may not be sufficient or user-friendly for merchants. This is where Payment Service Providers (PSPs) come into play. PSPs are complete payments and banking platforms that help merchants handle their payment and banking needs efficiently.

The role of PSPs includes:

Handling Regulations: PSPs ensure compliance with various regulations, such as PCI-DSS compliance, and other legal formalities to ensure smooth transactions for merchants.

Security: PSPs implement encryption and security measures to minimize the risk of fraudulent activities and protect sensitive information.

Recurring Payments and Bulk Transfers: PSPs handle recurring billing, payouts, and bulk transfers, simplifying these processes for merchants.

Multiple Payment Methods and Currencies: PSPs offer a wide range of payment methods and currencies, allowing merchants to expand their customer base and accept international payments.

Account Management and Insights: PSPs provide intuitive dashboards for managing accounts and gathering business insights to make informed decisions.

PSPs like EnKash offer a comprehensive solution for merchants, providing a seamless payment experience and enabling them to focus on their core business activities.

The Future of Online Payments in India

The Indian payments industry has witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years. The introduction of new payment systems and advancements in financial technology have revolutionized the way people transact digitally. Initiatives like UPI, payment links, QR codes, e-wallets, and prepaid cards have made payments more convenient and accessible for individuals and businesses.

The ongoing digital revolution is reshaping traditional banking services and driving merchants and individuals to embrace innovative solutions. Fintech companies and payment service providers continue to explore technologically advanced means to enhance existing payment systems and introduce new ones. These advancements aim to streamline the payments ecosystem, provide personalized customer experiences, and create new revenue streams.

Currently, payment solutions focus on real-time, low-value, high-volume, peer-to-peer payments, as well as eCommerce payment options. As the Indian fintech sector continues to innovate, we can expect more advancements that will shape the future of online payments, making them even more efficient and sought-after.

Conclusion

The evolution of the banking sector, marked by the transition from traditional cash handling to digital payment services like IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS, has significantly transformed the way individuals and businesses conduct financial transactions. Each of these payment systems offers unique features, benefits, and transaction limits, catering to diverse user needs. Factors such as transaction charges, processing time, transfer limits, and availability should be considered when choosing between them. Additionally, the guide explores other innovative payment modes like UPI, e-wallets, payment links, debit cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards, emphasizing the continuous advancements in the fintech industry. Payment Service Providers (PSPs) play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and user-friendliness of these payment systems for merchants. Looking ahead, the future of online payments in India is expected to witness further technological advancements, driving the industry towards increased efficiency, personalized customer experiences, and the introduction of new revenue streams. The ongoing digital revolution continues to reshape traditional banking services, making online payments more accessible and convenient for a wide range of users.

FAQS on IMPS vs NEFT VS RTGS

Q1. Which is better, IMPS or NEFT?
A: The choice between IMPS and NEFT depends on the fund transfer requirements. For larger transfers, NEFT is a better option, while IMPS is more suitable for smaller instant transfers.

Q2. Is IMPS transfer free?
A: IMPS charges vary depending on the amount being transferred and the bank's policies. Some banks offer free IMPS transfers, while others may charge a nominal fee.

Q3. Is Google Pay NEFT or IMPS?
A: Google Pay is neither NEFT nor IMPS. It is a UPI-based payment platform that enables inter-bank fund transfers through mobile phones.

Q4. What's the best way to send money: UPI, IMPS, or NEFT?
A: The best way to send money depends on the specific requirements. NEFT is suitable for larger transfers, UPI is convenient for day-to-day transactions, and IMPS is ideal for instant smaller transfers.

Q5: How many times can NEFT transactions be done in a day?
A: You can carry out as many NEFT transactions as you want until you reach the NEFT transfer limit set by your bank.