Mistakenly transferring money to the wrong UPI ID is more common than you might think. With lakhs of daily UPI transactions happening across India, even one wrong character can lead to a payment mishap. But don’t worry — if you act fast and follow the right steps, your money can often be recovered.
In this blog by WavexPay, we’ll walk you through what to do if you’ve transferred money to the wrong UPI ID and how you can avoid it in the future.
Here are the most common reasons:
- You sent money to the wrong UPI ID by typing it wrong
- You chose the wrong person by mistake in your UPI app
- You clicked on a fake payment link sent by someone
- There was a technical glitch and the app sent it to an unintended UPI ID
What to Do If You Sent Money to the Wrong UPI ID
Follow these steps to recover money from a wrong UPI transfer.
1. Take a Screenshot or Note Down Transaction Details
- UPI transaction ID / Reference number
- Date and time of payment
- Amount transferred
- The incorrect UPI ID or number you use to send money
- Screenshot of the payment confirmation
This information is very important while raising a complaint.
2. Contact Your UPI App’s Customer Support
Every UPI app — like PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, BHIM, etc. — has a support or help section.
Here’s what you should do:
- Go to the ‘Help’ or ‘Support’ section of the app
- Choose the transaction you want to report
- Select ‘Wrong beneficiary’ or ‘Wrong transfer’
- Follow the steps to raise a complaint
You’ll receive a ticket ID. The support team may get in touch or resolve it directly through email/app notification.
3. Call Your Bank Immediately
If the app is not helping or you’re in a hurry, call your bank’s customer care (number available on the bank website or your passbook).
Tell them:
- You sent money to an incorrect or mistyped UPI ID
- Share transaction details
- Ask if they can initiate a reversal request from their end
Sometimes banks can place a hold on the funds if they haven’t been withdrawn yet by the wrong recipient.
4. File a Complaint on NPCI Portal (if Needed)
If your app and bank don’t respond within 2–3 working days, you can raise a formal complaint with NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) — the governing body for UPI in India.
Here’s how:
- Go to: NPCI portal
- Fill the complaint form with all transaction details
- Select “wrong transfer” or “wrong UPI ID” as the reason
- Submit and wait for a response
NPCI usually takes 7–10 working days to investigate.
5. Try Contacting the Wrong Recipient (If Known)
If you accidentally sent money to someone you know (maybe you selected the wrong name), just give them a call and request a refund.
If it’s a stranger and you have their UPI ID, you may try sending a polite message requesting them to return the money, but don’t harass or threaten, as that can become a legal issue.
6. File a Police Complaint (In Rare Cases)
If the amount is large or the recipient refuses to return the money despite all efforts, you can approach the Cyber Cell or the local police station.
Carry:
- Your written complaint
- Transaction proof
- Your ID and bank details
Police may take it up as a case of wrongful gain or fraud, depending on the situation.
Things You Should NOT Do
- Don’t panic or rush to do more transfers
- Don’t try to hack or force a reversal
- Don’t share your personal banking details with anyone claiming to be a “recovery agent”
- Don’t click on links you don’t trust, especially after such an incident
What Are Your Legal Rights in This Case?
According to RBI and NPCI guidelines, accidental fund transfers can be reversed, but it depends on the recipient’s cooperation, unless fraud is involved.
If the person who got the money by mistake doesn’t return it and has no right over it, then legally, they must give it back. Otherwise, they can be held responsible under Section 403 of the Indian Penal Code for misusing someone else’s money.
So yes, you do have rights, but it’s easier if the person agrees to return the funds voluntarily.
How to Avoid Sending Money to the Wrong UPI ID Again?
Here are some precautions:
- Always double-check the UPI ID or phone number
- Use saved contacts or QR codes instead of typing manually
- If sending a big amount, first send ₹1 to test
- Confirm the recipient’s name before hitting ‘Send’
- Avoid clicking on unknown payment links or requests
Conclusion
Getting back money sent to the wrong UPI ID can feel difficult, but if you know the right steps and act quickly, it becomes manageable. Always keep your transaction details safe and contact your bank or UPI app support without delay. If needed, raise a complaint with NPCI for further help.
Remember, mistakes can happen, but staying alert, double-checking UPI IDs, and being aware of the process can save you from stress and financial loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I get my money back if I sent it to the wrong UPI ID?
Yes, in many cases you can — especially if you act quickly. If the recipient agrees, the reversal is easy. Otherwise, your bank and NPCI can help initiate a complaint.
Q2. How long does it take to get the money back?
It usually takes 2–10 working days, depending on the app, bank, and whether the recipient agrees to return the amount.
Q3. What if the person refuses to return the money?
You can file a complaint with NPCI or escalate the issue legally. If it’s a large amount, you can also approach the cyber police.
Q4. Will the bank reverse the UPI transfer automatically?
No, banks won’t reverse money automatically. But they can help if you raise a complaint quickly and provide all details.
Q5. Can I cancel a UPI transaction after sending?
No, UPI payments are instant and final. You can’t cancel them once sent. You must raise a reversal request through the proper channels.
Q6. Is it safer to use QR codes than typing UPI IDs?
Yes. Scanning QR codes or selecting saved contacts reduces errors. Typing manually increases the chances of mistakes.
Q7. Is there a helpline for UPI fraud or complaints?
Yes. You can reach out to your UPI app, your bank, or NPCI’s UPI dispute portal. For fraud, you can also call 1930 – National Cyber Crime Helpline.