Dealing with a “device not registered for UPI” error can be frustrating, especially when you need to make a quick payment. This issue often arises from a security mechanism that binds your UPI profile to a specific device and SIM card. When this link is broken, the system flags your device as unregistered.
What Does “Device Not Registered for UPI Payment” Mean?
When you first set up UPI on any app like Paytm, the app sends an SMS from your registered mobile number to verify your identity. If this SMS-based verification fails, the UPI system cannot authenticate your details. That’s when you see errors like:
- UPI app says device not registered
- Cannot register device for UPI transaction
- UPI device registration failed after SIM change
In short, the system cannot confirm that your mobile number, device, and bank account belong to the same user.
Common Reasons Why Your Device is Not Registered for UPI
SIM Card Issues
- Your registered mobile number is not in the SIM slot 1 (some apps require it).
- Your SIM card is inactive or not able to send SMS.
- You recently changed your SIM or ported your number.
Fix:
- Make sure the registered mobile number is in SIM slot 1.
- Ensure the SIM has an active plan with SMS balance.
- Restart your phone and retry.
Mobile Number Not Linked with Bank Account
UPI works only if your mobile number is linked to your bank account. If your number isn’t updated in bank records, the app cannot verify it.
Fix:
- Visit your bank branch or use net banking to update your mobile number.
- Once updated, try UPI registration again.
SMS Permission Denied to UPI App
UPI apps require permission to send and read SMS for verification. If permissions are blocked, the app cannot proceed.
Fix:
- Go to phone Settings > Apps > [UPI App] > Permissions and enable SMS, Phone, and Contacts.
Poor Network or Connectivity Problems
If your mobile network is weak or your internet connection is unstable, the verification SMS may not go through.
Fix:
- Switch to a stronger mobile network or Wi-Fi.
- Retry after some time.
Using a Different Mobile Device
If you changed your device but are using the same number, some UPI apps may take extra time to recognize the new device.
Fix:
- Reinstall the UPI app on your new phone.
- Complete fresh registration with the same mobile number.
Bank Server Issues
Sometimes the issue is not from your end. If your bank’s server is down, UPI verification may fail temporarily.
Fix:
- Wait and try again after a few hours.
- If the issue persists, contact your bank’s customer support.
Dual SIM Confusion
If you use a dual SIM phone, the app may get confused about which SIM to use for verification.
Fix:
- Keep only your registered SIM active while registering.
- Or, temporarily remove the non-registered SIM.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Steps
- Check if your SIM is active – Ensure your registered mobile number is working and has SMS balance.
- Insert the SIM in slot 1 – Many UPI apps check the first slot only.
- Give all required permissions – Allow SMS, Contacts, and Phone permissions to the UPI app.
- Enable mobile data or Wi-Fi – Keep internet stable while registering.
- Restart your phone – Sometimes, a simple restart fixes configuration issues.
- Reinstall the app – Uninstall and reinstall the UPI app for a fresh setup.
- Update your mobile number with the bank – If your number isn’t linked, update it at the bank branch or ATM.
- Check with your bank – If nothing works, the issue may be on the bank’s end.
How to Re-register Your Device for UPI?
Re-registering for UPI is an easy process. Follow these steps to resolve the cannot register device for UPI transaction error:
Step 1: Check the Basics
Before you do anything else, make sure your phone is ready.
- SIM Card: Ensure the SIM card with the mobile number linked to your bank account is in your phone and has an active plan with enough balance for the verification SMS.
- Network: Connect to a strong and stable mobile data network. Avoid using Wi-Fi during the registration process.
- Permissions: Go to your phone’s app settings and ensure the UPI app has all the necessary permissions, especially for SMS.
Step 2: Re-register via the UPI App
- Open the App: Open your UPI app like Paytm. The app will likely prompt you to re-register or verify your device.
- Select Bank Account: Choose the bank account you want to link. The app will initiate the SMS verification process.
- Automatic Verification: The app will send a silent SMS from your device to your bank. Do not switch between apps or screens during this process.
- Complete the Setup: Once the verification is successful, you may be asked to set a new UPI PIN or use your old one. Your device will then be registered, and you’ll be able to make payments.
Step 3: Troubleshooting for Specific Scenarios
- Device Not Registered for UPI After Phone Change: When you switch to a new phone, you need to download the UPI app and follow the re-registration steps. The UPI system is designed to be used on one device at a time, so the old registration will be automatically deactivated.
- UPI Device Registration Failed After SIM Change: Similar to changing your phone, a new SIM card requires you to re-register your device. Even if you’re using the same phone, the system recognizes the new SIM’s unique identifier.
If these steps don’t work, consider clearing the app’s cache and data, or reinstalling the app. If the issue persists, it’s best to contact your bank’s customer support. They can check if there are any issues with your bank account or a temporary server outage on their end.
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