Can I use UPI without an active SIM card?

No. An active SIM linked to your bank account is essential for UPI setup, account linking, and device verification. Without it, the app can’t authenticate your identity via SMS, which is required for security.

What happens if my SIM is blocked or not working?

If your SIM is blocked:rnrnYou won’t be able to register or re-login on UPI appsrnOTPs and verification SMS won't be deliveredrnrn To resolve this, contact your telecom operator to unblock or replace your SIM, and update your UPI app settings.

Is an internet connection enough for UPI to work?

The Internet alone is not sufficient if you’re setting up or updating UPI settings. You still need an active SIM for SMS-based authentication. However, once logged in, some basic actions may work over Wi-Fi depending on the app.

How do I regain UPI access after SIM replacement?

After getting a new or unblocked SIM:rnrnRe-insert the SIM in your registered devicernOpen your UPI app and re-verify your numberrnSet or reset your UPI PIN if promptedrnrn This restores full UPI functionality securely.

UPI Without Active SIM: Can You Use It? Explained

Does UPI Work If SIM Is Blocked?

July 28, 2025

UPI does not work if your SIM is blocked or inactive, as it relies on SMS-based verification linked to your mobile number for registration, authentication, and secure transactions. To continue using UPI services, you need an active SIM associated with your bank account.

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has made digital transactions seamless across India. But many users ask: “Can I use UPI if my SIM is not working?” This is a valid concern – especially when facing network issues, phone loss, or SIM card problems.

Can I Use UPI Without Active SIM?

The short answer is no. UPI relies on your active SIM (linked to your bank account) for authentication and SMS verification. If your SIM is blocked, inactive, or not working, you won’t be able to complete key processes like:

Verifying your mobile number during UPI registration
Receiving OTPs for secure transactions
Sending confirmation SMS to the bank for linking accounts
Verifying device change or app reinstall

So, if you’re wondering whether you can use UPI without an active SIM, the answer is no—you’ll need an active mobile number for it to function.

Why Active SIM Matters for UPI?

Here’s why your SIM must be working:

UPI Setup: UPI apps send a verification SMS during setup to confirm your mobile number with your bank.
Transaction Security: Many UPI transactions require OTPs sent to your registered mobile number.
Bank Linking: Linking or changing bank accounts in UPI also requires SMS verification through your active SIM.
Device/App Security: When you change your device, reinstall the UPI app, or reset your PIN, SIM-based authentication is needed.

Without these steps, your UPI ID and app cannot function.

What to Do If Your SIM Is Blocked or Lost

If your SIM is blocked or you’ve lost it:

Contact your telecom operator: Report the issue and request a replacement SIM card or ask to unblock your existing one.
Update SIM details in your UPI app: Once you have a new or unblocked SIM card, update your SIM card details in the Paytm app (or whichever UPI app you use) to continue using UPI services.
Reset UPI PIN if needed: If you are unable to access your UPI account, you can try resetting your UPI PIN using your debit card or Aadhaar details (if your bank supports Aadhaar-based PIN setup).

How to Avoid Issues in Future

Always keep your SIM active: Recharge periodically even if you don’t use the number for calls.
Update your bank if you change numbers: This ensures you don’t lose UPI access.

Conclusion: While UPI is known for its convenience and instant transactions, it still depends heavily on SIM-based authentication for security and verification. To avoid disruptions, keep your SIM active, and always update your mobile number with your bank if you switch numbers. This ensures continuous access to UPI services without verification failures or payment delays.