How to Deactivate UPI ID?

Although UPI has become an integral part of our daily lives, managing multiple UPI IDs linked to a bank account can quickly get overwhelming for users. Apart from creating confusion (by forgetting which ID is for what), it increases the risk of fraud, leads to transaction tracking issues, and complicates dispute resolution.

To navigate such a situation well, it helps to know how to delete UPI IDs in a few simple steps.

This blog explains how to deactivate your UPI ID on Google Pay, PhonePe and PayTM. 

What Is UPI, and Why Deactivate Your UPI ID?

UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is a simple, instant payment system that lets you send or receive money directly from your bank account using your phone. It works 24/7 and removes the need to share account numbers or IFSC codes.  

If you have multiple UPI IDs linked to one or more bank accounts, here's why you should deactivate the unused or unnecessary UPI IDs to manage your finances better.  

• Security & Safety: To prevent misuse in case your phone is stolen/lost or if you notice suspicious activity
• Account Closure: In case you're closing the specific bank account linked to UPI
• Digital Hygiene: To reduce the number of active UPI IDs, manage finances better, and avoid accidental payments
• Inactivity: Several banks are mandated to deactivate inactive UPI IDs for over a year to stop inadvertent transfers

Also Read: How to Get Phone Number from UPI ID? 

How to Deactivate Your UPI ID - Your Guide 

To begin deactivating/deleting your UPI ID, you need to go to your UPI app, navigate to account settings, select the respective UPI ID, and choose the option to disable or delete.  

Here is how it works for different apps-

Deactivating UPI ID via Google Pay

1. Open Google Pay on your smart device.
2. Click your app profile picture in the top-right corner.
3. Under 'Payment Methods', choose the specific bank account that is linked with the UPI ID you wish to delete.
4. Click on 'Manage UPI IDs'
5. Look for the PI ID you wish to deactivate and delete it.  
6. Click on 'Delete'  again to confirm your choice.  

Deactivating UPI ID via PhonePe App

1. Open the PhonePe app and click your profile picture.
2. Once done, go to UPI Settings.
3. Select UPI Number.
4. Look for the three dots next to the UPI number that you wish to delete or deactivate.
5. Tap 'Deactivate' and confirm by clicking 'Proceed'. 

Deactivating UPI ID via Paytm

1. Open the Paytm app.
2. Click your app profile in the top-left corner.
3. Select 'UPI & Payment Settings.'
4. Click on 'UPI & Linked Bank Accounts.

Also Read - UPI Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It Fast 

Safety Tips to Consider While Deactivating Your UPI IDs

When deactivating your UPI ID, there are several safety tips that you can apply to help protect your financial information and prevent potential fraud. Among these are-

• Always deactivate from your old device first: If you are switching phones, make sure to deactivate your UPI ID from the old device before you wipe it or dispose of it.  
• Monitor for confirmation messages: After deactivating your UPI ID, ensure to verify that you receive a confirmation SMS or in-app message.
• Unlink from other services: If your UPI ID was linked to other third-party apps for payments, ensure you unlink it from those platforms as well to prevent any issues with recurring payments or stored details. 

What Happens After Deactivating Your UPI ID?

Once you delete your UPI ID,  you cannot make or receive payments, as your virtual payment address is lost. Likewise, you cannot make or receive any payment via QR codes.

However, deactivating your UPI ID does not mean that you cannot use other payment methods.

Pro Tip: Block your UPI ID if you notice any irregularity.

A Smarter Way to Manage Your UPI IDs

Managing multiple UPI IDs linked to one bank account can be difficult to manage. Fortunately, there is an easy way you can deactivate a UPI ID in a few simple steps, as described above.

But if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to make an important payment but do not have funds, a personal loan can be a great option.

Apply for a Hero FinCorp personal loan in a few simple steps and manage urgent expenses without relying on UPI access. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Deactivating UPI ID Delete My Bank Account?

No, there is no impact on your actual bank account when you deactivate your UPI ID.

What is the Difference Between Deactivating and Deleting a UPI ID?

Deactivating a UPI ID means payments to that ID stop completely, whereas deleting might make the ID permanently unusable

What is The Time Taken to Deactivate a UPI ID?

Deactivating a UPI ID happens instantly or within minutes if done through the UPI app by removing the bank link.

Can I Use Multiple UPI IDs on One Bank Account?

Yes. You can have multiple UPI IDs for the same bank account.  

What to Do If I Face Issues While Deactivating My UPI ID?

If you are facing issues deactivating your UPI ID, start by doing basic troubleshooting. If that fails, reset your UPI PIN via your bank app or contact your bank's customer care.