Sent money to the wrong UPI ID? How to get it back
A UPI payment you made by mistake cannot simply be reversed, but your bank can ask the receiver's bank to return it. Here is the complaint route, and what the law says if the receiver refuses.
First, know which kind of problem you have
- You made a mistake (typed the wrong UPI ID or number, or scanned the wrong code): the payment was authorised by you, so it is not fraud. The bank needs the receiver’s cooperation to return it.
- Money left your account without your approval: that is an unauthorised transaction. Follow our guide on reporting cyber fraud instead, because stricter RBI rules protect you there.
Step 1: Note the details
Find the transaction in your UPI app and note the UTR / transaction reference number, date, time, amount and the receiver’s UPI ID or name.
Step 2: Raise a complaint in your UPI app
Most UPI apps have a “Raise a complaint” or “Report a problem” option on the transaction. Choose the option for money sent to the wrong person and keep the complaint number.
Step 3: Contact your bank
Call or write to the bank whose account was debited, quoting the UTR number. Your bank will contact the receiver’s bank, which in turn asks the account holder to return the money. Banks cannot take money out of someone’s account without that person’s consent, which is why this can take time.
Step 4: Escalate to the RBI Ombudsman
If your bank does not resolve the complaint within 30 days, or rejects it, you can complain to the RBI Ombudsman online at cms.rbi.org.in, free of charge. Attach your bank complaint and its reply.
If the receiver refuses to return the money
Under Section 72 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, a person who receives money paid by mistake must repay it. If the receiver refuses, you can send a legal notice and, if needed, file a civil suit for recovery. Your bank can share the receiver’s details only through legal process, so for larger amounts consider consulting an advocate.
Prevent it next time
Before paying, check the name the app shows for the UPI ID. For a new payee, send ₹1 first and confirm they received it.