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Difference between IMPS and UPI Fund Transfer

03-Apr-2025  /  By Fortuna Desk

 

IMPS and UPI Fund Transfer are different!

 

The digital revolution in India has transformed the way we handle financial transactions. Among the various modes of digital payments available today Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) are two popular options for transferring funds quickly and securely.

 

Both services offer instant money transfers, but they have distinct features:

 

 

What is IMPS?

 

The Immediate Payment Service, or IMPS, is an instant payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) that enables real-time interbank fund transfers. It is available 24/7, including weekends and public holidays, allowing users to send and receive money instantly across India.

 

Key Features of IMPS:

 

  • IMPS are accessible through various channels such as mobile banking, internet banking, ATMs, and bank branches.
  • The daily transaction limit for IMPS is typically ₹5 lakh.
  • IMPS transactions usually incur a nominal fee ranging from ₹5 to ₹15, which varies from bank to bank and the transaction amount.
  • IMPS uses secure protocols and requires details such as the recipient’s account number and IFSC code for transferring funds.

 

 

What is UPI?

 

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a payment system that enables users to link multiple bank accounts to a single mobile application and make instant fund transfers using a Virtual Payment Address (VPA) or mobile number. UPI was also developed by the NPCIL and has gained widespread popularity due to its ease of use and versatility.

 

Key Features of UPI:

 

  • UPI allows users to link multiple bank accounts to a single app, simplifying fund management.
  • Instead of using account numbers and IFSC codes, UPI uses a VPA (name@bank) for transactions, making it easier to remember and use.
  • UPI transactions are usually free of charge for users, though some banks may charge nominal fees for certain transactions.
  • UPI allows both instant fund transfers and the ability to request money from others.
  • UPI is widely accepted for various types of payments – from online shopping and bill payments to peer-to-peer transfers.

 

 

Key Difference between IMPS and UPI:

 

While both IMPS and UPI are designed for instant fund transfers, they differ in several aspects, such as user experience, transaction costs, security, and convenience.

 

It provides convenience as it does not require two-factor authentication, making it faster for quick transfers. However, one potential downside for frequent users is that some banks may impose a transaction fee on IMPS transfers, adding an extra cost to the service.

 

One of its key benefits is the option to make payments using VPA instead of sharing sensitive personal or bank account details. It also allows you to send money to multiple recipients at once and has affiliations with many banks across India. Additionally, certain UPI apps come with rewards and cash back on transactions, making it a more cost-effective option for some users.

 

Overall, while IMPS might be more straightforward for single, quick transactions, UPI stands out for its flexibility, additional features, and potential cost savings.

 

 

 

 

Difference between RuPay and Visa Card

 

As India grows into one of the world’s largest economies, the financial services sector is transforming significantly. Cashless transactions are gaining currency compared to cash transactions.

 

Today, a variety of transactions can be conducted in cashless mode through cards. When it comes to choosing a new card, many find themselves torn between RuPay and Visa. We will discuss more about RuPay cards and Visa cards, some of the key difference between RuPay and Visa cards, and which one can be a better choice. Read on for further insights.

 

What is a RuPay Card?

 

RuPay is a multinational financial service and payment solutions system launched by the National Payments Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL).

 

It is India's indigenous payment service platform, initiated by the RBI, with the aim of establishing a domestic, open, multilateral payment system and promoting financial inclusion.

 

The name “RuPay” has been derived from “Rupee” and “Pay”. RuPay has evolved to be one of the most popular and accepted payment networks in the country.

 

It offers a wide range of debit, prepaid, and credit cards with a minimal transaction cost, making it more affordable for the less privileged sections of society. Recently, RuPay tied up with Discover Financial Services of the US, Pulse and Union Pay of China, and JCB of Japan. This will allow users to transact not only domestically but also across numerous merchant networks.

 

 

What is a Visa Card?

 

Visa is a US-based multinational payment gateway and card solutions company. It is one of the most popular card networks, with a presence in more than 200 countries and partnerships with more than 14,500 financial institutions worldwide.

 

Visa offers a wide range of debit cards, prepaid cards, credit cards, and various types of co-branded credit cards.

 

 If you are carrying out transactions within the country, a RuPay card is the best option. Its lower transaction fees and faster processing time make it suitable for everyday use.

 

 However, if you are dealing internationally or frequently travelling abroad, Visa cards can be the ideal option for you. Its wide acceptance and comprehensive global benefits provide convenience and added security for international use. Both RuPay and Visa cards offer unique benefits that cater to different customer needs.

 

By understanding the key difference between RuPay and Visa cards, you can now make an informed choice that best suits your lifestyle and requirements. Whichever you choose, consider checking their fee structure, terms, and perks to maximize your card benefits.

 

Popular Notes:-

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