UPI Transaction Error: How To Recover Money Sent To The Wrong Account

In today’s fast-paced world, sending money via UPI is quick and convenient, but even a small slip can lead to financial loss. Entering the wrong UPI ID or mistakenly selecting an unfamiliar contact can result in your funds landing in someone else’s account. The good news is that, under the updated 2026 banking regulations and NPCI guidelines, it is possible to recover such funds if you act promptly and correctly.

Immediate Steps After Sending Money to the Wrong Account

The first thing to do after realizing a transaction error is to stay calm and collect all necessary transaction details. The Transaction ID or UTR Number is the most critical piece of information, as it is a unique 12-digit code used to trace the payment.

Additionally, record the exact date and time of the transaction, the amount sent, and the incorrect UPI ID to which the money was mistakenly transferred. Before proceeding further, confirm whether the transaction has been fully debited or is still marked as “Pending,” as pending transactions sometimes automatically revert to your account.

Filing a Complaint Through Your UPI App

Your initial action should be to raise a complaint through the UPI app you used—be it Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, or others. Navigate to your Transaction History, select the incorrect transaction, and choose the Help or Raise a Dispute option. Most apps will have categories like “Sent to Wrong Person” or “Incorrect UPI ID”. Logging your complaint in the app creates an official record, which is vital when approaching your bank for further action.

How to Secure a Refund

Filing a complaint in the app alone is not sufficient. Immediately contact your bank, either through your home branch or customer care line. Provide them with the UTR number, a screenshot of the transaction, and the details of the wrong UPI ID. The bank will then issue a Reversal Request to the recipient’s bank on your behalf.

It’s important to note that a bank cannot directly deduct money from the recipient’s account without their consent. However, it can issue a mandatory refund request through the recipient’s bank. Filing your complaint within 48 hours of the transaction significantly increases your chances of getting a swift refund.

If the bank or app does not resolve the issue, you can escalate the matter further. Begin by visiting the NPCI Grievance Portal and submit a complaint under the UPI Dispute Redressal Mechanism. If no resolution is received within 30 days, you can approach the RBI Banking Ombudsman, a legal authority that ensures banks are held accountable and provides a final resolution.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Refund?

Refund timing largely depends on the recipient’s cooperation. If they agree, the money can be credited back within 3–7 working days. In cases where escalation is required, the process may take 2–4 weeks or longer.

Tips to Avoid Future Mistakes

To prevent such errors, always verify the recipient’s name, which appears immediately when you enter a UPI ID. For larger transfers, consider sending ₹1 first to confirm the details. Using QR codes instead of manually typing the UPI ID is a safer and more reliable method, minimizing the risk of sending money to the wrong account.