When you initiate an NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) transaction, the bank assigns a unique reference number, also known as the Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number. This reference number can be used to track the status of your NEFT transaction.

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This blog explains the process to check NEFT transaction status and a lot more about it.

What is a Reference Number?

An NEFT reference number, also known as a Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number, is typically 16 digits long. It is a unique identifier assigned to each NEFT transaction. It’s like a tracking code that allows you and your bank to monitor the progress of your money transfer. You’ll find this number on your transaction receipt or online banking confirmation screen.

How to Check NEFT Transaction Status with Reference Number?

1. Internet Banking

This is often the most convenient way to check your NEFT transaction status. Here’s what to do:

Login to your bank’s internet banking portal using your credentials.
Navigate to the “Transactions” or “Account Statement” section.
Look for the NEFT transfer you want to track and find the corresponding UTR number.
Click on the transaction or UTR number to view the status. This will typically display whether the transaction is “initiated,” “pending,” “successful,” or “failed.”

2. Mobile Banking App

Many banks offer mobile banking apps that allow you to check your account activity and transaction history. Here’s the process:

Open your bank’s mobile banking app and log in securely.
Navigate to the “Transactions” or “Account Activity” section.
Find the NEFT transfer you’re interested in and locate the UTR number.
Tap on the transaction or UTR number to view the status. Similar to internet banking, it will indicate the current stage of your transfer.

3. Contact Your Bank

If you’re unable to access internet or mobile banking, you can always contact your bank’s customer care service. Here are the options:

Phone: Call your bank’s customer care number and speak to a representative. You’ll need to provide your account details and the UTR number for the transaction you want to track.
Branch Visit: You can also visit your bank branch in person. Speak to a customer service representative and provide them with your account information and the UTR number.

Additional Tips

Keep your UTR number handy: Always make a note of the UTR number when you initiate an NEFT transaction. This will be crucial for tracking the status later.
Allow processing time: NEFT transactions typically take anywhere between 2-24 hours to be processed, depending on the bank and time of day. Don’t panic if you don’t see an update immediately.
Check for SMS or Email Alerts: Some banks offer SMS or email alerts for NEFT transactions. These alerts may include the UTR number and the status update.

Where Can You Find the Reference Number?

You can find your NEFT UTR number in a couple of places depending on how you initiated the transfer:

Online Banking Confirmation Screen: If you initiated the NEFT transfer through your bank’s online portal, you’ll likely find the UTR number displayed on the confirmation screen immediately after the transaction is complete. This screen will often show a summary of the transfer details, including the recipient’s information, amount transferred, and the unique UTR number.
Transaction Receipt: If you initiated the NEFT transfer through a physical bank branch, you’ll receive a printed receipt as confirmation. This receipt will typically include the transaction details, including the recipient’s information, amount transferred, and the UTR number.
Account Statement: Even if you don’t have the initial confirmation screen or receipt, you can still find the UTR number later. Look for the NEFT transaction in your online bank statement or a physical copy you may receive. The UTR number will be associated with the specific NEFT transfer details.

What is the Format of a NEFT UTR Number?

The Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number for a NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) transaction follows a standard 16-character format. The UTR number is structured as follows:

“XXXXNYYDDDNNNNNNNN”

Let’s break down the format:

XXXX – The first 4 characters represent the 4-digit bank code, which is the same as the first 4 digits of the IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) for the bank.
N – The 5th character represents the NEFT server identifier.
YY – The 6th and 7th characters represent the last two digits of the year in which the transaction was processed.
DDD – The 8th, 9th, and 10th characters represent the day of the year the transaction was processed, ranging from 001 (January 1st) to 365 (December 31st).
NNNNNNNN – The last 8 characters represent the unique transaction reference number, which the bank determines.

For example, a NEFT UTR number could be:

123H230061000001

In this case:

1234 is the bank code
H indicates the branch server processed the NEFT transaction
23 represents the year 2023
061 represents the 61st day of the year (March 2nd)
00001 is the unique transaction reference number

The NEFT UTR number serves as a unique identifier for the transaction and can be used to track the status of the transfer and resolve any issues that may arise.

NEFT Transaction Status- Points to Consider

Before you get worried about the status of your NEFT transaction, it is important that you consider the following points-

Wait 2 Hours: Hold off on checking the status for at least 2 hours after processing your NEFT transaction. It takes time for them to be processed.
Double-Check IFSC: Incorrect IFSC code (bank code) will cause your transaction to fail. Ensure you have the right one before initiating the transfer.
Accuracy is Key: While NEFT failures are rare, providing accurate beneficiary information is crucial. Double-check account details to avoid delays.
Refunds for Failed Transactions: Don’t worry if your NEFT fails. If the money gets deducted but not credited, it will be refunded to your account.
Contact Your Bank: If the status remains unknown or unclear after 2 hours, reach out to your bank’s customer service for assistance.

Paytm UPI – Another way to Perform Bank-to-Bank Transfers

Paytm UPI is another convenient way to perform instant bank-to-bank transfers in addition to NEFT and IMPS. Here are the key points about using Paytm UPI for money transfers:

Paytm UPI allows you to transfer funds from your bank account to any other bank account instantly and securely.
To use Paytm UPI, you need to create a UPI account on the Paytm app by linking your bank account. Your UPI ID will be automatically generated, typically in the format of your mobile number@paytm.
You can transfer money using Paytm UPI by entering the recipient’s mobile number, scanning their QR code, or using their UPI ID. The recipient can be selected from your phone contacts as well.
Enter the transfer amount, select the bank account to use, and enter your UPI PIN to authenticate the transaction. The money will be instantly transferred to the recipient’s account3.
Paytm UPI has a daily transfer limit of ₹1 lakh and is free of charge. It offers a convenient alternative to traditional methods like NEFT which require adding beneficiaries and waiting for approvals.
Paytm keeps a record of all your UPI transactions, allowing you to easily track the status of your transfers.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this blog is to simplify complex processes for readers’ understanding. Please note that some information and screenshots provided may become outdated or change over time. However, we strive to keep our blogs updated and relevant to provide accurate and helpful information.