The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a real-time payment system. It enables you to send money to anyone or request money from them directly via your bank account—24/7 and instantly. Previously, using UPI required a UPI ID linked to a bank account, a QR code, or a mobile number. Subsequently, to make the process even more convenient, the concept of a "UPI Number" was introduced.

A UPI Number can be an 8 or 9-digit number—or simply your 10-digit mobile number—that you can link to your existing UPI ID. By using a UPI Number, you can send or receive money through any UPI-enabled app. Simply put, you can use a UPI Number as a substitute for your standard UPI ID. Just as you currently send money by entering a UPI ID (e.g., abc@bank), you can now send and receive funds by entering a UPI Number instead.

How to Create a UPI Number?

First, the user must create a UPI ID. Once that is done, they have the option to generate a UPI Number as well.

Open your UPI app (such as PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay, BHIM, etc.).

Navigate to the 'Profile' or 'Settings' section and select the option to 'Create UPI Number'.

If available, you can choose your preferred 8 or 9-digit number here. Users also have the option to designate their 10-digit mobile number as their UPI Number.

Upon confirmation, this number will be linked to your bank account and your UPI ID.

How to Delete a UPI Number?

Go to your UPI app and click on 'Manage UPI Number'.

Select the specific number you wish to remove.

Click on 'Delete' or 'Deactivate'.

Your UPI Number will be disabled immediately, and no one will be able to use it thereafter.

Why is a UPI Number Beneficial?

Easy to remember

Enhanced privacy (no need to share your UPI ID)

Makes both sending and receiving payments easier

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.