Unified Payments Interface, or UPI, has become a part of everyday life in India. Since NPCI introduced UPI in 2016, people have been using it for everyday payments like shopping, Utility bill payments, and money transfers. You only need a smartphone to make a payment instantly.
But sometimes mistakes happen. You may type the wrong UPI ID, select the incorrect contact, scan the wrong QR code, or enter an incorrect amount. This is how wrong UPI transactions happen. In such cases, people often seek ways to reverse a UPI payment or raise a complaint about a wrong UPI transaction.
If you ever face a wrong transfer or a failed UPI payment, you can report it through your bank app or your UPI app, such as BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm. If the issue is not resolved, it can be taken up further through NPCI.
This guide explains what a wrong UPI transaction means, how to raise a complaint, how to track NPCI status, and when a UPI payment can be reversed.
What is a wrong UPI transaction?
A wrong UPI transaction happens when money is sent to the wrong person or when the payment details entered by the sender are incorrect. This usually happens due to typing mistakes or selecting the wrong contact while making a payment.
Before sending money, it is important to check the Virtual Payment Address, mobile number, account number, or the QR code of the person you want to pay. Since these details are entered manually, mistakes can happen easily.
Some wrong UPI transactions can be corrected if you act quickly, and the bank can verify the issue.
How to File a Complaint for a Wrong UPI Payment?
If you have sent money to the wrong person or faced a failed or incorrect UPI payment, you can raise a wrong UPI transaction complaint. All UPI complaints must first be reported to your bank or the UPI app you used. If the issue is not solved at that level, it can then be taken up further through NPCI.
1. File a Complaint Through Your Bank App
Your bank is the first point of contact for any UPI problem. Every UPI transaction is settled through the bank, so they have the authority to check and verify the issue.
- Open your bank’s mobile app
- Go to the Support or Grievance section
- Select the UPI-related complaint option
- Enter the Transaction ID, date, amount and a short description of the issue
- Submit the complaint and save the reference number
The bank will review the complaint and contact the receiver’s bank if needed.
2. File a Complaint Through the NPCI Website
NPCI manages the UPI platform and provides an online complaint form for issues that remain unresolved with the bank. NPCI does not directly reverse money. It guides the banks involved to carry out the investigation.
Steps:
- Visit www.npci.org.in
- Open the Complaints or Grievances section
- Enter the Transaction ID, date, sender details and receiver details
- Submit the form and save the complaint reference number
NPCI will work with the banks to review the case.
3. File a Complaint Through UPI Apps
Apps such as BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm allow users to raise complaints from within the app. These complaints are sent to your bank for verification.
Steps
- Open your UPI app
- Go to Help, Support, or Raise a Complaint
- Select the transaction you want to report
- Choose the issue, such as wrong transfer, failed payment, or fraud
- Submit the details and save the complaint number
This is helpful for issues such as wrong transactions on PhonePe or GPay.
Documents Required to File a UPI Complaint
When you raise a wrong UPI transaction complaint, the bank or UPI app will ask for some basic details. These help them check the payment and start the investigation. Here are the documents and information you should keep ready.
1. Transaction ID (UTR / Reference Number)
Every UPI transaction has a unique Transaction ID (UTR).
This number is needed to track the payment and verify the issue.
2. Date and Time of Transaction
Mention the exact date and time when the transaction occurred.
Accurate timestamps help the bank verify the transaction faster.
3. Amount of Transaction
Include the exact transaction amount.
Avoid rounding off, as discrepancies may delay resolution.
4. Sender and Receiver UPI ID / Bank Account Details
Provide the UPI ID of the sender and receiver. Account details may be required only if relevant.
Helps in identifying the parties involved and verifying the transaction.
5. Bank and App Details
Mention the bank name (e.g., SBI, HDFC, ICICI) and the UPI app used (BHIM, PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm).
Some apps require a screenshot of the failed or wrong transaction.
6. Type of Complaint
Specify the nature of the issue, such as:
- Wrong UPI ID or account
- Transaction failed, but money was debited
- Duplicate payment
- Fraudulent or unauthorised transaction
7. Supporting Evidence (Optional but Recommended)
You can include screenshots of the transaction status, error messages, or app notifications.
Helps banks or NPCI validate your complaint faster.
How to check NPCI UPI Complaint Status Online
You can track your UPI complaint online through the NPCI website. This helps you stay updated on the progress of your issue.
Steps to Check the Status
- Visit the NPCI website at www.npci.org.in
- Open the Dispute Redressal or Complaint Status section
- Enter the complaint reference number you received
- Provide the Transaction ID, date, and amount
- Submit the form to view the current status
- NPCI will display the current status of your complaint based on the information shared by the banks.
If your complaint is not resolved within a reasonable time, you can follow up with your bank and then escalate it through the NPCI portal or the RBI Integrated Ombudsman platform.
What are the reasons behind wrong UPI transactions?
These are the possible reasons behind wrong UPI transactions
Wrong Details
The most common reason behind wrong UPI transactions is the incorrect entry of the receiver’s details. The transaction is bound to go wrong or fail if there is a typing error or the intended recipient’s details are entered incorrectly.
Wrong PIN
Entering the wrong UPI PIN will cause the transaction to fail. Multiple incorrect attempts can also temporarily block the PIN.
Technical Issues
UPI depends on stable internet connectivity, banking servers and app performance. Any technical problem can lead to a failed or pending payment.
Transaction Time Limit
A transaction may fail if the app takes too long to process the payment. This can happen if the internet is slow or if the bank takes too long to respond.
Bank Balance
The user must maintain a sufficient bank balance before undertaking any UPI transaction. If there’s not enough money in the bank account required for the transaction, it will fail.
Daily UPI Limit
If you cross the daily UPI limit set by your bank or UPI apps, the payment will not go through.
Not Verifying the Recipient’s Name During UPI Payment
Some apps show the receiver’s name before payment. If the sender does not check this and confirms the transaction, money may go to the wrong person.
Also Read: UPI Transaction Limit Per Day
How to Reverse a Wrong UPI Transaction in India?
If you send money to the wrong person or face a payment problem, you may be able to reverse a wrong UPI transaction after the bank verifies the issue. The steps below can help you start the process.
1. Contact Your UPI App Provider
Inform the UPI app you used, such as BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm.
They will register the issue and forward it to your bank for checking. This is often the fastest way to report a wrong transaction.
2. Contact Your Bank
Your bank handles the actual settlement of UPI payments.
Share the Transaction ID, the amount and the wrong recipient details. The bank will verify the complaint and contact the receiver’s bank if needed.
3. Try to Contact the Recipient
If you know the recipient or if the name is visible in the app, you can request them to send the money back. The bank will still investigate, but voluntary return by the receiver is the simplest and quickest outcome.
4. Raise a Complaint With NPCI
If the bank cannot resolve the issue, you can submit a complaint on the NPCI website.
NPCI will review the case and guide the banks involved. NPCI does not process refunds. It only helps route the complaint to the banks involved.
5. Escalate if the Issue Remains Unresolved
If there is no progress after a reasonable time, you can escalate the complaint to the RBI Integrated Ombudsman platform. This is the final level for resolving UPI-related complaints.
A wrong UPI transaction may be reversed only after the bank completes its verification. Reversal depends on the type of issue and the receiver’s response.
When Can a Wrong UPI Transaction Be Reversed?
A wrong UPI transaction can be reversed under the following circumstances:
- If the transaction is duplicated
In case the sender has made the same payment twice, the recipient can reverse one of the transactions. This can be done automatically if the UPI system detects duplication. - If the transaction is wrong or fraudulent
If the transaction is done via UPI and is fraudulent or made to the incorrect recipient, the recipient can voluntarily return the amount and reverse the transaction. In most cases, banks cannot force a reversal without the receiver’s consent and must follow NPCI and RBI guidelines during investigation. - If there’s a technical failure
In case the transaction fails and the amount is debited from the sender’s account, it is usually reversed automatically within 24–48 hours. If it does not get reversed within this time, the sender should raise a UPI payment complaint with the bank. - If the authorization is pending
In case a transaction is under process for a long period due to technical glitches, it may get reversed automatically if not completed. - If the bank intervenes
If a bank detects a fraudulent transaction, it can intervene and initiate a reversal or chargeback process as per NPCI and RBI guidelines, but the outcome depends on the investigation and cooperation of all parties involved.
Step-by-step guide on reversing a transaction using different UPI apps
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reverse a transaction using popular UPI apps
Guide on reversing a transaction using Google Pay UPI
- Open the Google Pay app on your phone
- Visit the transaction history page
- Locate the transaction you want to reverse
- Report the issue with that particular transaction
- Select the issue related to that transaction
- Submit the request
- Google Pay will update you about the request raised via the app or email
Also Read: Google Pay Transaction Limit
Guide on reversing a transaction using PhonePe UPI
- Open the PhonePe app on your device
- Go to the ‘Transactions’ section
- View the transaction details
- Report the issue for the respective transaction
- Enter details if required and raise the request
- You will be able to track the request raised through the app or email
Guide on reversing a transaction using Paytm UPI
- Go to the Paytm app on your phone
- Open the Balance & History tab
- Navigate to the particular UPI transaction that needs to be reversed
- Click on ‘Help’ as visible
- Raise your issue after providing the necessary information
- Paytm will process your request and provide updates via app or email.
How to complain about your bank’s customer service?
Here’s how you can complain to your bank for a wrong UPI transaction:
- Keep your UPI transaction details handy, like the date and time of the transaction, the amount involved, transaction ID, recipient’s UPI ID, your bank account details, and registered contact number.
- Reach out to the customer service of the bank and inform them of the issue in detail. Follow their instructions.
- Send an email to the bank’s email address explaining the issue and mentioning all the details of the transaction. Attach your updated bank account statement as well.
- You can visit the bank’s nearest branch to resolve the issue in person by speaking to the manager. Carry all the necessary documents along with you.
- Track the UPI payment complaint using the bank’s app, customer service, or website.
- If the issue remains unresolved, raise it further through the RBI Integrated Ombudsman platform in India.
Conclusion
UPI is one of the easiest ways to send and receive money in India, but it is important to use it carefully. Wrong entries, typing mistakes, fake links, and scams can lead to money loss or incorrect transfers. Always double-check the UPI ID, mobile number, or QR code before making any payment. Never share your UPI PIN or OTP with anyone.
If something goes wrong, act quickly and raise a complaint through your UPI app or your bank. Banks and NPCI review these complaints and help you through the process. Staying updated, being alert, and using secure apps can protect you from most UPI-related issues.
FAQs
1. What is a wrong UPI transaction?
A wrong UPI transaction happens when money is sent to the wrong person. This can happen due to an incorrect UPI ID, wrong number, wrong amount or a typing mistake.
2. What should I do if a UPI transaction goes wrong?
- Try to contact the recipient
- Report the issue immediately in the UPI app you used
- Inform your bank
- Track the complaint
- If the issue is not solved, escalate it through the NPCI portal
- If still unresolved, escalate it through the RBI Integrated Ombudsman platform
3. What is the RBI Integrated Ombudsman Scheme?
It is a platform by the Reserve Bank of India where customers can raise complaints about banks and payment services if their issues remain unresolved at the bank level.
4. What are the preventive measures for UPI users?
- Double-check the recipient’s UPI ID and name
- Do not share your UPI PIN or OTP
- Use secure and verified UPI apps
- Keep your app locked
- Stay aware of UPI scams and fake links
5. Can a UPI transaction be reversed?
A UPI transaction can be reversed only after the bank completes its investigation. Reversal depends on the type of issue, the recipient’s response and verification by the banks involved.
6. Is it possible to get money back after a wrong UPI transaction?
Yes, it is possible in some cases. You must raise a complaint with your UPI app or your bank. The bank will review the issue and request the receiver’s bank to help with the refund. The result depends on the investigation.
7. Can a wrong UPI payment on GPay be reversed?
You can report the issue in the GPay app and the request will be sent to your bank for verification. If the bank confirms the error and the receiver cooperates, the amount can be returned.
8. Where can I file a wrong UPI transaction complaint in India?
You can file a complaint through:
- Your UPI app
- Your bank’s mobile app
- The NPCI website if the bank is unable to resolve the issue
9. Are there any UPI reversal charges?
There are generally no UPI reversal charges. When the bank approves a refund, the amount is usually returned to your account without any fee. However, it is advisable to check your bank’s latest policy.
10. How long does it take to get a refund for a wrong UPI transaction?
Banks usually take a few working days to review and resolve UPI complaints. In some cases, it may take longer depending on the investigation.
11. How do I register a complaint about a UPI transaction?
You can register a complaint through your bank, your UPI app, or the complaint form available on the NPCI website. NPCI may update contact details from time to time, so users should check the NPCI website for the latest helpline information.
