One of the main characteristics that make UPI (Unified Payments Interface) very effective and user-friendly is its feature of the management of multiple bank accounts by one UPI ID. Thus, it gets rid of the reinstating of switching between different apps or repeatedly entering the different account details for various transactions. If you are someone who spends time moving between personal and salary accounts or if you just want to separate the spending from the savings, linking multiple accounts under one UPI handle can definitely make your digital payments a lot simpler.
Any platform that supports UPI, including an instant UPI app, provides this feature with a few easy steps.
Why Should You Link Multiple Bank Accounts to One UPI ID?
There are a few reasons why you should link more than one on your UPI ID:
- Your movement will be facilitated as you will be able to access different accounts without logging into separate portals.
- Giving the freedom to pick an account to make payments from, the one that has more balance.
- The most convenient way to keep an eye on all transactions if you have multiple accounts.
- If you want to budget, separate business and personal expenses, or just manage shared finances, then this option is perfect for you.
UPI has a very prominent feature, which is its flexibility that makes it a breeze to manage money for those who deal with multiple banking relationships.
Basic Requirements Before Your Start
The following must be true if you wish to successfully link multiple accounts:
- All bank accounts have the same mobile number.
- The mobile number you provide is linked with your Aadhaar and is active for SMS-based authentication.
- You have access to an instant UPI app that supports account management features
- Your debit card is active and ready for OTP verification (this is required for UPI PIN setup)
Step-by-Step Process to Link Multiple Bank Accounts
- Open Your UPI-Enabled AppLaunch your preferred instant UPI app on your smartphone. Most apps support multi-bank account management under the same UPI ID.
- Go to the ‘Bank Accounts’ SectionLook for the option typically labeled as “Bank Accounts,” “Manage Accounts,” or “Linked Accounts.” This section will show your current linked account and the option to add more.
- Tap on ‘Add New Bank Account’Select the option to add another bank. The app will display a list of all UPI-supported banks. Choose the bank you want to link.
- Verify Mobile Number and Fetch Account DetailsThe app will send an SMS from your registered number to verify it with the bank. Once verified, your account details will be fetched automatically.
- Set or Reconfirm Your UPI PINTo complete the linking process, you may need to enter your existing UPI PIN or set a new one using your debit card details and an OTP.
- Assign a Default Account (Optional)You can choose one account as your default for sending and receiving money. This can be changed anytime in the settings.
- Repeat for Other AccountsIf you have more accounts with different banks, repeat the process. All accounts will remain accessible under the same UPI ID.
How Switching Between Accounts Works
First things first the multiple account linking process. For subsequent payments, you can then just switch to the account you want without going through the link process again. The majority of the UPI instant apps interfaces allow you to:
- Choose the ‘From Account’ before starting a transfer
- Make a different account your default by changing the setting
- Look at the transaction history of each individual account separately
- Get the money that you will use for the specific purpose in the default or the account that you prefer
This control level is particularly beneficial for those who are managing joint accounts, business payments, or freelance income.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You can link multiple accounts, but only one can be made default for receiving via UPI ID or mobile number
- Your UPI PIN is a different one for each bank account — do not get the PINs mixed up
- Check up on all accounts so that there are no missing transactions or low balances that can occur
- When changing your phone number, remember to re-register on all your accounts
Security Measures You Should Follow
- Keep your UPI PIN to yourself, do not share it with anyone
- Don’t use financial apps on public Wi-Fi
- Lock your device and the app and use other security settings
- If you regularly update your instant UPI app, you will be protected from bugs and vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
A single UPI ID linked to multiple bank accounts is an easy way to increase convenience and give you more control. It not only saves time but also simplifies payments and reduces the clutter of switching between apps or wallets. A few taps on any UPI instant app and it will all be done, you can think of this as a one-stop shop for all your accounts — and you can be super-efficient while doing your daily financial transactions