UPI Rules Change from October 1: Why You Can’t Use Collect Requests on GPay, PhonePe, and Paytm Anymore

UPI Rules Change from October 1: Why You Can’t Use Collect Requests on GPay, PhonePe, and Paytm Anymore: If you’re one of the millions of people in India who rely on UPI for daily payments, here’s something you need to know. Starting October 1, 2025, a major change is coming to the way we use apps like GPay, PhonePe, and Paytm.

The popular “Collect Request” feature which allows you to send a payment request to someone—will no longer work. Surprised? Many users are. But there’s a solid reason behind this decision.

What Exactly Is Changing in UPI?

From October 1, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has directed all banks and UPI apps to discontinue the P2P Collect Request option, also known as a Pull Transaction.

In simple terms:

• You won’t be able to send a “Request Money” notification to someone anymore.
• Instead, you’ll need to directly transfer money using methods like UPI ID, QR code, or bank account number.

This change only applies to the Collect Request feature. Sending and receiving money the regular way remains the same.

Why Did NPCI Take This Step?

Here’s the thing what was meant as a convenient feature was being widely misused. Fraudsters often sent fake collect requests, and many unsuspecting users clicked “approve” without realizing they were authorizing a payment.

Think about it: how many times have you tapped accept quickly without reading the details? That small mistake has cost some people thousands of rupees. By removing Collect Requests, NPCI wants to make UPI safer and fraud-free. With this rule, money will only move if you take the first step.

What Should Users Do Now?

Don’t worry you can still send and receive money easily. The only difference is that instead of requesting money, you’ll have to use one of these options:

1. Scan a QR Code at a shop or from a friend.
2. Enter UPI ID (like name@bank) and send money directly.
3. Use bank account number + IFSC for direct transfers.

If you used Collect Requests for splitting bills or asking friends to pay, you’ll now need to send them your UPI ID or QR code instead.

What Stays the Same and What Doesn’t

1. No change in regular UPI transfers.
2. QR code payments work as usual.
3. Money transfers through UPI ID or bank details remain.
4. Only the Collect Request feature will disappear.

Banks and apps like GPay, PhonePe, and Paytm are already updating their systems, so the transition will be smooth for users.

Why This Rule Actually Benefits You

At first, it might feel inconvenient to lose the “Request Money” option. But here’s why it’s good for you:

• Less chance of fraud: You can’t accidentally approve a fake request anymore.
• More control: Payments will only happen when you decide to send money.
• Simpler process: Direct transfers are quick, and most of us already use QR or UPI IDs daily.

In short, the change is all about your safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I still send money on GPay, PhonePe, or Paytm after October 1, 2025?
Yes. Regular transfers using UPI ID, QR codes, or bank accounts will continue as before. Only the Collect Request option will be discontinued.

2. Why was the Collect Request feature removed?
It was often misused by fraudsters. Many users unknowingly approved requests, leading to money being deducted. To stop this, NPCI decided to remove the feature.

3. How can I ask someone for money now?
Instead of sending a request, you can share your UPI ID or QR code with the person, and they can transfer the amount directly to your account.