No results found

Try these instead

 

In this Article

      Banking 101

      Wrong UPI ID, missed IFSC, delayed payments... I've done it all

      Avoid wrong UPI ID payments, missed IFSC codes, and delays. Here’s how!

      December 05, 2025 4 min read

      Key insights

      Avoid making the wrong UPI ID payment - Check twice before hitting send.

      Wrong IFSC code? Errors can delay NEFT/IMPS transfers or bounce payments.

      UPI collect requests can be fake; never approve without checking the sender.

      Using verified apps and enabling SMS alerts helped me stay on top of transactions.

      It’s a special kind of heartbreak when you send money to the wrong UPI ID.

      One minute you’re tapping “Pay,” the next, your ₹2,000 is chilling in a stranger’s account while you’re left searching “how to reverse a UPI transfer.”

      Let’s be real - While digital payments are convenient, fast, and addictive, you might make a wrong UPI ID payment if you’re not paying attention. From wrong UPI handles to delayed UPI payments and forgetting IFSC codes - I’ve had my fair share of payment fails.

      So, here’s a breakdown of all the mistakes I’ve made, what I wish I knew earlier, and how you can avoid ending up in the same situation.

      My most relatable payment fails

      Here’s how I realised small payment habits can make a big difference:

      1. Made a wrong UPI ID payment

      Let’s start with the classic error. I once sent money to someone named “Rahul Sharma” instead of “Rahul_Sharma25@okxxx”. Close enough, right? Nope. One was my friend, the other was some lucky stranger.

      2. Forgot to add the IFSC code in a bank transfer

      Back when I was paying rent via NEFT, I entered the wrong IFSC code. The money didn’t go through. Worse, my account was debited, and I had no clue where the money went.

      3. Didn’t check the receiver name prompt

      Ever noticed that prompt that shows the name before the money is sent? Yeah, I ignored it. Turns out, “Sooraj Sharma” wasn’t my landlord; it was someone I’d paid once through a food delivery app for splitting dinner.

      4. Missed a due date because UPI was down

      It was the last day to pay my Credit Card bill. I opened my app, tapped “Pay”, and UPI was “experiencing high traffic.” By the time it went through, I’d been charged a late fee.

      5. Used an unverified app to transfer money

      In a rush, I downloaded a new payment app that looked cool but wasn’t legit. I tried sending money - the app crashed, money was debited, no trace of the receiver.

      What did I do differently after these failures?

      After enough financial discussions, I got smarter. Here’s what I do now and what you should too:

      1. I created a “Safe send” checklist

      Before I hit the “Pay" button, I now run through a 5-second checklist:

      • UPI ID or account number + IFSC
      • The receiver's name matches
      • Amount is correct (not ₹10,000 when I meant ₹1,000)
      • The network is stable
      • The app is legit

      It sounds silly. But those 5 seconds? Life-changing.

      2. I set up payment reminders

      Rent, Credit Card bills, subscriptions and everything is now scheduled or has a calendar reminder. No more last-minute panic taps that rely on UPI behaving perfectly.

      3. I enabled transaction alerts

      Every time money leaves or enters my account, I get a message. That way, if anything shady happens, I get to know instantly, and I can contact my bank or payment app support if needed.

      4. I learnt the “reverse a UPI payment” process

      If you’ve ever made a wrong UPI payment, don’t just cry. Here’s what to do:

      • Call your bank’s customer care or payment app support.
      • Raise a complaint within 24–48 hours.
      • File a dispute under the UPI refund policy.
      • You might not always get it back, but you have a chance if you act fast.

      5. I made a backup payment option

      I now keep two apps + one Net Banking login ready. If UPI fails, I will just switch my methods. No stress, no delays, no fees.

      Key takeaways (So you don’t have to learn the hard way)

      • Use verified apps only and no shady downloads, please.
      • Set reminders for bills to avoid delayed UPI payments.
      • Triple-check any suspicious or wrong UPI ID payment before hitting pay.
      • Know your transaction limits for both the app and your bank.
      • Always verify the name that shows up in the confirmation screen.
      • Keep a backup plan ready in case UPI goes down.
      • In case you mess up, contact your bank fast; time matters.

      Don’t prioritise convenience over caution

      We’re all living that tap-to-pay life, but convenience can’t replace caution. Your money deserves that extra second of attention, just like you do. So, pay attention to every second. Be cautious and alert during UPI payments to ensure you make correct transfers.

      The next time you’re paying someone, pause, check, and then swipe.

      Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for informational purposes. The views expressed in this article are personal. Axis Bank and/or the author shall not be liable for any direct or indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader arising from reliance on the content herein. Readers are advised to consult a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions. Axis Bank does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any third-party content or links included in this article.


      By Axis Bank Learning Hub Team