UPI Users May Encounter New Limits Starting August 1

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is set to implement a fresh set of regulations that will impact how Unified Payments Interface (UPI) apps function. Starting August 1, 2025, new API usage rules will come into effect, impacting balance checks, autopay features, transaction status checks, and more.

While the move is aimed at enhancing security and system stability, everyday users may experience some restrictions in how they interact with their UPI apps such as PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm.

Daily Balance Checks Now Capped at 50 Per App

One of the most noticeable changes for UPI users is a new restriction on account balance inquiries.

• Each UPI app will only allow users to check their bank balance 50 times per day.

• If a user operates more than one UPI app, the limit applies per app, meaning you can check your balance 50 times on each.

• After hitting the limit, the balance check feature will no longer function for the rest of the day.

This move is expected to reduce unnecessary load on the UPI system servers and ensure a smoother experience during peak usage hours.

Autopay Mandates Blocked During Peak UPI Hours

Another significant change involves autopay mandates.

• NPCI will restrict autopay transactions during high-traffic UPI windows:

  • From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

  • From 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM

During these hours, any autopay attempts—whether for subscriptions, recurring bills, or EMIs—will not be processed. Users are advised to schedule such payments during non-peak hours to avoid delays.

Fewer Transaction Status Checks for Failed Payments

Currently, when a UPI transaction fails, users often recheck the transaction status multiple times. The new rules will curb this practice.

• Apps will limit repeated transaction status checks for failed or pending payments.

• This change is meant to optimize system efficiency and reduce congestion caused by repeated status queries.

NPCI aims to improve the overall performance of the UPI ecosystem with this update.

Bank Account List Access Limited to 25 Times Daily

If you frequently check which bank accounts are linked to your mobile number via UPI, you'll also face a new limit.

• Access to view linked bank accounts will be restricted to 25 times per day per UPI app.

• To view the accounts, users must select their bank and provide consent for the fetch to happen.

This restriction is another step toward minimizing redundant API calls, which contribute to high server load and slower response times.

Compliance Mandatory for Banks and Payment Apps

NPCI has made it clear that all banks and Payment Service Providers (PSPs) must comply with these new API limits.

• Providers such as Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and banking apps are expected to implement these changes.

• NPCI has warned that any violations could lead to:

  • Penalties

  • Temporary usage restrictions

  • A potential ban on onboarding new users

In addition, all PSPs must submit a system audit undertaking to NPCI by August 31, 2025, as part of the new compliance measures.

Why NPCI Is Enforcing These Changes

The NPCI maintains that these changes are essential for the long-term scalability, security, and reliability of the UPI system. As usage grows, so does the strain on backend infrastructure.

By implementing measured API access, NPCI aims to prevent system slowdowns, protect against fraudulent activity, and offer a smoother experience to the rapidly expanding UPI user base.

What Users Should Do

If you’re a regular UPI user, here’s what you can do to stay ahead of the new rules:

• Monitor your balance check count.

• Schedule autopay mandates during off-peak hours.

• Avoid frequent status checks after a failed payment.

• Be mindful of daily limits on viewing linked accounts.

These habits will ensure uninterrupted service and better adaptability to the new UPI framework rolling out on August 1, 2025.