Picture this – You’ve just split a dinner bill with friends, your freelance client needs a gentle nudge, or your roommate owes you for last month’s utilities. Instead of awkward reminders or chasing checks, a few taps on your phone resolve it instantly. This is the magic of UPI’s “request money” feature—a tool that’s reshaping how we handle personal and professional finances in India. Whether you’re coordinating expenses with colleagues, invoicing clients, or managing household budgets, this guide will show you how to use UPI apps to streamline payments, maintain relationships, and keep your cash flow smooth.
Why UPI Money Requests Are a Game-Changer
Gone are the days of scribbling IOUs or waiting for checks to clear. UPI’s request feature flips the script: instead of waiting for others to pay, you initiate the process. It’s like sending a digital invoice that arrives in seconds, with no paperwork or bank visits. Forgot to collect rent from your tenant? Need to split a group gift? UPI turns these moments into quick, hassle-free transactions.
The best part? It’s universally accessible. From street vendors to Fortune 500 companies, over 300 million Indians use UPI monthly. This isn’t just tech for the young or tech-savvy—it’s designed for everyone.
Step-by-Step: How to Request Money on Popular UPI Apps
Let’s break down the process for India’s three most popular UPI apps.
1. Google Pay: The Social Payment Hub
Google Pay blends simplicity with social connectivity. Here’s how to request funds:
- Open the app and tap your profile picture (top-right corner).
- Select “Request Money” from the menu.
- Choose a contact or enter their UPI ID/phone number.
- Enter the amount and add a note (e.g., “June Rent” or “Team Lunch”).
- Hit “Request”—they’ll get a notification to pay instantly.
Pro Tip: Use the “Split an expense” feature for group scenarios. If five friends split a ₹5,000 dinner, Google Pay calculates individual shares and sends requests automatically.
2. PhonePe: The All-Rounder
Known for its versatility, PhonePe lets you request money in two ways:
Method A: Direct Contact Request
- Tap “To Mobile Number” on the home screen.
- Select a contact or enter a number.
- Type the amount in the chat-style interface and send.
Method B: UPI ID Request
- Go to “To Bank/UPI ID”.
- Enter the recipient’s UPI ID (e.g., [email protected]).
- Verify the name, enter the amount, and send.
Bonus: PhonePe’s “Remind” option gently prods contacts who haven’t paid within 24 hours—ideal for forgetful friends.
3. Paytm: The Veteran’s Choice
Paytm’s deep integration with Indian commerce makes it ideal for formal requests:
- Open “Passbook” at the bottom menu.
- Tap “Request Money”.
- Enter the amount and generate a payment link.
- Share the link via WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
Why It Shines: The link works even if the payer doesn’t use Paytm. They can pay via any UPI app or net banking.
Perks of Requesting Money on UPI
- No More Awkwardness: Replace “When will you pay?” with a polite, automated reminder.
- Track Everything: Digital records mean no lost receipts or forgotten debts.
- Business-Friendly: Freelancers can invoice clients directly, with notes for GST or project codes.
- Safety First: Every transaction requires the payer’s UPI PIN, blocking unauthorized transfers.
- 24/7 Access: Request payments on weekends, holidays, or midnight—no banking hours restrictions.
Smart Practices for Flawless Transactions
- Be Specific: Always add notes like “March Electricity Bill” or “Office Team Outing.” Clarity prevents confusion.
- Set Expiry Dates: Apps like Bajaj Finserv let requests expire in 24/48 hours, keeping your dashboard clutter-free.
- Verify Recipients: Double-check UPI IDs to avoid sending requests to strangers (yes, it happens!).
- Use QR Codes: For in-person requests (e.g., a vendor), show your personal QR code—they scan it and pay instantly.
Recurring Requests for Predictable Expenses
Why send fresh requests every month for rent, subscriptions, or gym fees? Apps like PhonePe and Paytm let you set up auto-reminders. Here’s how:
- PhonePe: Tap “Repeat Request” after sending a payment ask. Choose frequency (weekly/monthly) and duration.
- Paytm: Use the “Scheduled Requests” feature in the “Request Money” section.
Perfect for: Landlords, freelancers with retainer clients, or parents managing weekly allowances.
UPI + Budgeting Apps = Financial Zen
Sync UPI transactions with apps like Walnut or ETMoney. Every time someone pays your request, it’s automatically categorized (e.g., “Rent,” “Freelance Income”). No more manual spreadsheet updates.
QR Codes for Instant Crowd Payments
Hosting an event? Generate a static UPI QR code (via Google Pay or BHIM) and display it at venues. Attendees scan it to pay tickets, donations, or workshop fees directly to you.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What if someone ignores my request on UPI?
UPI requests aren’t legally binding, but apps let you resend reminders. For persistent issues, switch to a payment link (Paytm) that allows partial payments.
Q2: Are there transaction limits on UPI?
Yes. Most banks cap single transactions at ₹1 lakh, however, for larger sums (e.g., rent deposits), split into multiple requests or use IMPS.
Q3: Can I request money internationally via UPI?
Limited options exist. For instance, DBS Bank allows NRIs in Singapore to send ₹1,000 daily to Indian UPI IDs. Check with your bank for specific partnerships.
Q4: Is there a fee for requesting money on UPI?
UPI requests are free for personal use. Businesses using payment gateways like Razorpay may incur minimal charges (0.3–0.6% per transaction).
Q5: What if I send a wrong request on my UPI app?
Cancel it immediately (supported on BHIM and Google Pay). If paid by mistake, refund via UPI—it takes seconds.
How UPI Requests Empowers You
This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about financial confidence. By mastering UPI requests, you’re taking control of cash flow, reducing dependency on cash, and fostering transparency in relationships. Imagine a world where splitting vacation costs or collecting club fees doesn’t involve spreadsheets or arguments. That’s the world UPI is building.
So next time you’re owed money, skip the anxiety. Open your UPI app, tap a few buttons, and let technology handle the rest. After all, your time is better spent enjoying life—not chasing payments.
Note: For those exploring beyond the top three, apps like Amazon Pay (seamless for Prime users) and BHIM (government-backed simplicity) offer robust alternatives. Test a few to find your perfect fit!
