Complete Guide to Net Banking in India

Net banking payment modes are online banking services which allow customers to transfer funds electronically from their bank accounts to another account, either within the same bank or to an account with a different bank.

Customers can now send and receive money without physically visiting a bank.

Overview of Net Banking Payment Modes in India

Net banking is a popular mode of payment in India, with many banks offering their own services. 

Overall, net banking payment modes in India are secure, convenient, and cost-effective, making them a popular choice for many customers.

Net banking can be used to make payments to merchants, transfer money to other accounts, and even pay bills. It provides the convenience of making payments, transferring money, and paying bills from the comfort of one's home or office. Net banking payments are secure and cost-effective, making them a preferred choice for customers. 

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of net banking, the various types of net banking available in India, and the advantages of using them.

Net Banking Payment Modes in India established by the GOI

Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS): BBPS is an integrated bill payment system that allows customers to make payments for a range of utility services like electricity, water, gas, etc. It is a secure payment mode that is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India. 

Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM): BHIM is an app-based payment system that allows customers to make payments directly from their bank accounts. It is fast, secure, and easy to use. BHIM also allows customers to transfer money to other customers’ accounts instantly.

Benefits of Net Banking Payment Modes in India

• Convenience: With Net banking you can make payments and transfer funds from the comfort of their home or office. It saves time in waiting in long queues at banks and other financial institutions.

• Cost Savings: Net banking allows customers to save on the costs associated with traditional banking transactions. It eliminates the need to pay transaction fees and makes it easier to track payments.

• Security: Net banking is a secure payment system. It uses encryption technology to protect customers' financial information.

• Speed and Efficiency: Net banking is a fast and efficient payment system. Transactions are processed quickly and securely, making it an ideal choice for customers.

Types of Net Banking Payment Modes in India

The most popular net banking payment methods in India include: 

• National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) 
• Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS)
• Immediate Payment Service (IMPS)
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI). 

National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT)

NEFT is an electronic funds transfer system that allows customers to transfer funds from one bank account to another, either within the same bank or to an account with a different bank. This method is usually used for smaller transactions and is usually free of charge. It is maintained and operated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and was launched in November 2005. It is an efficient, reliable, and secure way for customers to transfer funds to any bank branch in India. 

The duration of the transfer depends on the bank and the location of the beneficiary. Generally, the transfer is completed within 3 to 4 hours. However, some banks may take longer to process the transaction. It is important to note that the transfer time may vary depending on the time of day and the bank’s processing time.

NEFT Holidays:

‍NEFT service is available 24×7 and 365 days a year. However, if you wish to process the transaction by visiting the bank, you won't be able to do NEFT on a Sunday.

Minimum and Maximum Amount Transaction Limit:

No, there is no limit imposed by the RBI for funds transfer through NEFT system. However, a member bank may place amount limits based on its own risk perception with the approval of its Board.

Daily Number of Transaction Limit:

There is no limit on the maximum amount of money you can transfer via NEFT, as per the Reserve Bank of India. However, the individual banks may in some cases impose a NEFT maximum limit based on the risk perception.

How Does NEFT Work?

The NEFT system works by enabling customers to transfer funds to any bank branch in India. The customer provides their bank account details, such as account name, type, and number, and the amount to be transferred. The bank then sends a request to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) which is then routed through the NEFT system to the beneficiary’s bank branch. The beneficiary’s bank branch then credits the amount to their account.

How to Create an NEFT Account in India:

To create an NEFT account in India, customers need to visit their bank branch and fill out the application form. The customer should provide their KYC documents such as PAN card, Aadhar card, passport, driving license, etc. to open the account. In addition, customers must also provide their bank account details, such as account name, type, and number. The customer will then receive a welcome letter with their NEFT account details.

How to get started with NEFT :  

The process of National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) is quite simple. To start off, a customer needs to fill out a NEFT form, which includes details like the beneficiary’s name, account number, bank name, and IFSC code. Once the form is filled out, the customer needs to submit it to his/her bank. The bank will then process the transaction, and the funds will be transferred.

Best Ways to Use NEFT in India:

The NEFT system is a secure, reliable and efficient way for customers to transfer funds to any bank branch in India. It is especially useful for transferring funds to family members, paying bills, and purchasing goods and services. In addition, customers can also use NEFT to transfer funds from one bank account to another. 

Using NEFT in Other Countries:

The NEFT system can also be used to transfer funds to other countries. Customers need to provide their bank account details and the amount to be transferred. The funds are then routed through the NEFT system to the beneficiary’s bank branch in the foreign country. The beneficiary’s bank will then credit the amount to their account.

Overall, National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) is a convenient and secure way to transfer funds from one bank account to another in India. The entire process is paperless and can be completed within a few hours.

Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS)

Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) is a funds transfer system used by banks in India to transfer large sums of money. This system is used to make payments between two banks in India, and is used to make payments of large sums of money between two parties. The RTGS system is run and managed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). 

RTGS is a real-time payment system used for large-value transactions. It is usually used for payments over Rs 2 lakhs, and the funds are transferred in real-time. 

How to get started with RTGS  :  

In order to create an RTGS account in India, you will need to have a bank account with one of the banks that is a part of the RTGS system. Once your bank account is created, you will need to provide the necessary details to the bank, such as your name and bank account number. You will then need to fill out a form that is available at the bank or online, and submit it to the bank. Once the form is filled out, the bank will provide you with an RTGS account number.

How does RTGS work : 

The RTGS system works by transferring funds from one bank account to another. When a transaction is initiated, the funds are transferred from one bank to another in real-time. This makes the process of transferring money much faster and more efficient than other traditional methods. 

Best Ways to Use RTGS in India:

The best way to use the RTGS system in India is to make sure that you have all the necessary information about the transaction handy before you initiate it. This includes the name and bank account number of the person you are sending money to, and the amount of money you want to transfer. It is also important to make sure that you have enough funds in your bank account to cover the cost of the transaction. 

Using RTGS in Other Countries:

The RTGS system can also be used in other countries, though the process may vary depending on the country. It is important to do your research and make sure that you understand the process before you initiate a transaction.

RTGS Cut Off Time:

‍No cut off time, service is available 24/7, 365 days

Daily number of Transaction Limit:

‍There is no limit on the number of transactions that can be done through RTGS. However, each transaction must be done separately and must satisfy the minimum and maximum transaction limit criteria.

‍Minimum and Maximum Amount Transaction Limit:

The minimum amount to be remitted through RTGS is ₹ 2,00,000/- with no upper or maximum ceiling. 

Immediate Payment Service (IMPS)

What is IMPS?

IMPS stands for Immediate Payment Service, and it is an instant payment system in India. It is a 24/7 real-time payment system that offers an interbank electronic fund transfer service. IMPS is a secure method of sending money, and it is also a convenient way to transfer funds. IMPS transactions are almost instantaneous, with transactions usually taking place in less than a minute. 

What are the IMPS Holidays in India?

IMPS is available for 24/7/365,

What is the Daily Transaction Limit for IMPS?

The daily transaction limit for IMPS is Rs. 5 lakhs. 

How to Create an IMPS Account in India?

To create an IMPS account in India, you will need to have a bank account and a valid mobile number that is registered with that bank. Once your bank account is set up, you will need to register your mobile number in the bank's system. After this, you will need to download the bank's mobile banking app, or you can use the USSD code *99# to access the IMPS service. Once you have registered your mobile number and downloaded the app, you will need to create an IMPS account by providing your bank account details. 

How Does the IMPS System Work?

The IMPS system works by connecting banks’ computer systems with each other, enabling customers to transfer funds from one bank account to another in real-time. When a customer initiates a transaction, the message is sent to the receiving bank through a secure gateway maintained by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). The receiving bank then verifies the details and sends an acknowledgement to the customer. The customer then receives a confirmation message with the details of the transaction. 

Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

What is UPI?

UPI stands for Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is a system that banks and financial institutions can use to facilitate digital payments in India, through a single platform. UPI allows customers to send and receive money directly to and from their bank accounts using their registered mobile number. It is a secure, efficient, and convenient way to make payments and transfer money, without the need of using cash or cheques.

Does UPI have a cut off time?

No

How to create an UPI account in India?

Creating a UPI account in India is very simple. All you need to do is download the UPI app from the Google Play Store and register yourself with your bank details. Once registered, you will be given a virtual payment address (VPA). You can then link your bank account to the app, and start sending and receiving money through UPI.

How does the UPI system work?

The UPI system is based on a two-step process. First, the customer enters the details of the recipient and the amount to be sent. This information is then sent to the user’s bank. The bank then verifies the details and sends a request to the recipient’s bank. Once the recipient’s bank verifies the details, the money is transferred from the sender’s account to the recipient’s account.

What are the best ways to use UPI in India?

UPI is one of the most popular payment options in India. It is a secure, easy, and convenient way to transfer money and make payments. Here are some of the best ways to use UPI in India:

• Paying bills: UPI can be used to pay for utility bills, including electricity, water, and gas.

• Paying for online purchases: UPI can be used to make online purchases from e-commerce websites.

• Transferring money to friends and family: UPI can be used to transfer money to family and friends.

• Donating to charity: UPI can be used to donate to charities and non-profit organizations.

• Paying for services: UPI can be used to pay for services such as cab rides, food delivery, and more.

How to use UPI in other countries?

UPI is currently available in India only. However, there are a few third-party payment apps that allow you to use UPI in other countries. These apps are integrated with international payment gateways and allow customers to use UPI to make payments and transfer money internationally. Some of the popular third-party payment apps that allow you to use UPI in other countries include PayU, PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.

The daily number of UPI transactions is limited to 20 per customer. This limit is set by the Reserve Bank of India to ensure that customers do not exceed their daily transaction limit. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Net Banking Payment Modes in India 

A. Pros 

• Convenience: Net banking is highly convenient as it allows customers to make payments from anywhere and anytime. This eliminates the need to visit the bank or wait in queues to make payments. 

• Cost-effectiveness: Net banking allows customers to make payments without any transaction charges. This can help customers save money in the long run.

•  Security: Net banking is considered to be a secure way of making payments as it requires customers to login with their credentials. This ensures that only the authorized user can make payments. 

B. Cons 

• Technical Issues: There are times when customers may experience technical issues while making payments through net banking. This can be an issue if the payment is urgent. 

• Cybersecurity: As with any online transaction, net banking payments are also vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This can put customers’ personal and financial information at risk. 

Guide to Net Banking Payment Modes in India

A. Step-by-Step Guide

Net banking is a convenient way to make payments online and is increasingly popular in India. Here is a step-by-step guide to setting up and using net banking payment modes in India: 

• Register for an account: Most banks require customers to register for an account before they can use net banking services. To do this, you will need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and contact number. You will also have to provide proof of identity and address, such as a valid photo ID and utility bill. 

• Activate your account: Once you have registered for an account, you will need to activate it in order to start using net banking services. This usually requires you to create a username and password, which you will use to access your account. 

• Add a payment method: Once your account is activated, you will need to add a payment method in order to start making payments. This could be a debit or credit card, or a net banking account from another bank.

• Make a payment: Once you have added a payment method, you can start making payments online. You will need to enter the amount you wish to pay and provide any additional information required by the payment service. 

• Confirm the payment with OTP: Once you have entered all the required information, you will need to confirm the payment. This will usually require you to enter a one-time password or a security code sent to your registered mobile number. 

B. Tips for Choosing the Right Payment Mode

When choosing a net banking payment mode, there are a few factors you should consider:

• Fees: Different payment modes may have different fees associated with them. Make sure to compare different payment methods to find the one that best suits your needs.

• Security: Security is an important factor to consider when making payments online. Make sure to check the security measures taken by the payment service you are using to ensure your payments are secure.

• Ease of use: Make sure to choose a payment method that is easy to use and understand. This will help to make the payment process smoother and faster. 

In Summary

Net banking is a convenient and secure way to make payments online in India. To use net banking payment modes, customers must first register for an account, activate it, and add a payment method. Once all these steps are completed, customers can make payments online with ease. 

Using net banking payment modes has many advantages. It is a fast, secure, and convenient way to make payments online. It is also more cost-effective than traditional payment methods, as there are usually no transaction fees associated with it. Additionally, it is easy to use, making it a great option for those who are unfamiliar with online payments.

Net banking payment modes offer numerous benefits to customers in India. They provide convenience, cost savings, security, speed, and reliability. Moreover, they are secure and cost-effective payment systems. With the increasing popularity of net banking in India, it is likely that more customers will opt for these payment modes in the future.