5 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do With UPI

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed the way we handle digital transactions. Most people use UPI for sending money to friends, paying for groceries, or settling restaurant bills. However, there are several hidden features that many users are unaware of. If you have a UPI app downloaded on your phone, you can do much more than just basic transactions. These apps provide a flexible way to manage expenses, earn rewards, and keep track of spending.

Popular platforms like Bajaj Finserv, Paytm, and Google Pay provide additional services that enhance UPI’s usability. Here are five surprising things you can do with UPI that can make your financial life easier and more efficient. 

1. Pay your utility bills in one place

Managing multiple bill payments can be stressful, but UPI apps make it easy. Using a platform like Bajaj Finserv BBPS, you can pay electricity, water, gas, broadband, and other utility bills instantly. Instead of juggling different apps or logging into multiple websites, you can consolidate all your bill payments in one place.

How to do it:

• Open your UPI app and navigate to the ‘Bill Payments’ section.
• Select the type of bill you want to pay.
• Enter the required details (consumer number, account details, etc.).
• Confirm and authorise the payment using your UPI PIN.

With automated reminders and scheduled payments, you will never miss a due date again. This not only saves time but also helps you avoid late payment fees.

2. Set up auto-payments for subscriptions

Many people use UPI for one-time transactions, but did you know you can also set up auto payments? If you have recurring subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Spotify, you can link them to your UPI account for hassle-free payments.

How to do it:

• Choose ‘AutoPay’ or ‘Recurring Payments’ in your UPI app.
• Select the service provider (OTT platforms, insurance, SIP investments, etc.).
• Set the frequency (monthly, quarterly, annually).
• Authorise the payment once, and the app will take care of future payments automatically.

This feature ensures uninterrupted services while keeping your finances organised. You no longer have to worry about remembering due dates, and your subscriptions will continue without manual intervention.

3. Use UPI for investments and SIPs

Investing through UPI is a lesser-known but highly convenient feature. You can use your UPI ID to invest in mutual funds, stocks, and systematic investment plans (SIPs) without needing net banking details.

How to do it:

• Open your investment platform or mutual fund app.
• Choose ‘UPI’ as the payment method.
• Enter your UPI ID and authorise the transaction.
• The amount will be deducted automatically from your bank account.

Since UPI transactions are instant, you can invest without delays and monitor your portfolio effortlessly. Many investment platforms also offer UPI-based SIPs, allowing you to automate your investments with ease.

4. Book and pay for travel tickets

Did you know you can book bus, train, and flight tickets using your UPI app? Many travel platforms allow seamless UPI payments, eliminating the need for credit cards or wallets.

How to io It:

• Visit your preferred travel booking website or app.
• Select your journey details and proceed to checkout.
• Choose UPI as the payment method and enter your UPI ID.
• Authorise the payment to confirm your booking.

UPI payments ensure instant ticket confirmation and allow you to track expenses in real-time. Whether you are booking local transport or international flights, using UPI can simplify the process and help you keep better control over your spending.

5. Pay at international merchants using UPI

UPI is no longer limited to domestic transactions. Several international merchants now accept UPI payments, making it easier for Indian travellers to shop abroad without carrying forex cards or cash.

How to do it:

• Check if the international merchant supports UPI payments.
• Scan the QR code or enter your UPI ID at checkout.
• Approve the payment using your UPI PIN.

With this feature, you can avoid currency exchange hassles and enjoy a seamless shopping experience overseas. UPI’s global reach is expanding, allowing more international merchants to accept payments from Indian customers.

Bonus: UPI Pay Later for short-term credit

Another feature that many users overlook is UPI Pay Later. This service allows you to make purchases on credit and pay later, similar to a credit card. Many financial institutions, including Bajaj Finserv, offer UPI Pay Later options for managing short-term expenses without high-interest charges.

How to use UPI pay later:

• Check if your UPI app supports the ‘Pay Later’ feature.
• Apply for approval based on your creditworthiness.
• Use the UPI Pay Later option at checkout for purchases.
• Repay the amount within the stipulated time to avoid additional fees.

This feature is useful for managing cash flow effectively, especially during emergencies or when you need to make urgent purchases without immediate funds.

Conclusion

UPI has evolved beyond simple money transfers, offering a range of financial services that enhance convenience. From paying utility bills to automating subscriptions, investing, booking travel tickets, and making international payments, UPI apps provide a comprehensive digital payment solution.

If you have not explored these features yet, it is time to make the most of your UPI app download. By leveraging these hidden benefits, you can streamline your finances, save time, and enhance financial efficiency effortlessly. As UPI continues to expand its capabilities, users can expect even more innovative ways to manage money with just a few taps on their smartphones.