In a significant overhaul aimed at improving efficiency and user protection, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced a series of regulatory updates to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. These changes, effective from August 1, 2025, are designed to reduce server congestion, curb misuse, and streamline digital payments across platforms.
Daily Limit on Balance Enquiries
Starting August, users will be allowed to check their account balance only 50 times per day per UPI app. This cap is aimed at preventing apps from making excessive or automated balance requests, which can burden backend infrastructure and cause delays. For most users, this limit is more than sufficient and will contribute to smoother performance across the network.
Limit on Viewing Linked Bank Accounts
The number of times users can view bank accounts linked to their mobile number has been capped at 25 times per day. This change is aimed at curbing frequent background API calls by some applications, which impact overall UPI responsiveness.
Fixed Time Slots for Auto-Debit Transactions
Auto-debit payments such as SIPs, insurance premiums, and OTT subscriptions will now be processed only during specific time windows:
- Before 10:00 AM
- Between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM
- After 9:30 PM
This measure is designed to reduce peak-hour load and ensure timely execution of scheduled transactions.
Status Checks for Failed Transactions Restricted
If a UPI payment fails, users can now check its status only three times, with each check spaced at least 90 seconds apart. This step is aimed at limiting redundant status queries, which often contribute to server lag and impact transaction success rates.
Speed Enhancements Rolled Out in June
Ahead of the August rollout, NPCI implemented a performance upgrade in June 2025 by reducing API response time thresholds:
- Payment transactions are now expected to receive a response within 15 seconds
- Failed transaction queries are capped at 10 seconds
These upgrades have already accelerated UPI processes and improved user experience.
Real Beneficiary Name Displayed Before Payment
Since June 30, 2025, UPI apps are required to display the actual name registered with the beneficiary’s bank accountbefore completing any transaction. This critical update significantly reduces the risk of transfers to fraudulent or incorrect accounts.
Monthly Limit on Chargebacks
A policy introduced in December 2024 now limits users to a maximum of 10 chargebacks per month, with no more than 5 directed at the same individual or business. This measure prevents abuse of the dispute resolution mechanism and prioritizes genuine grievances.
