Pay using BHIM apps without Bank account

 

What is UPI Circle / BHIM Circle

UPI Circle is a delegation / sharing feature introduced by NPCI that lets a primary user (i.e. the main account holder) authorize secondary users (trusted family, friends, caretakers) to initiate UPI payments from the primary user’s linked bank account. 

The idea is to allow people who may not be comfortable managing digital payments (elderly, dependents) to transact via someone they trust, while still giving the primary user oversight and control. 

At launch, this feature was available in BHIM app version 4.0.2 and above. 

Key Features & Modes of Delegation

UPI Circle supports different modes / levels of delegation:

Feature Description

Number of secondary users A primary user can authorize up to 5 secondary users. 

Partial Delegation (Approve Every Payment) The secondary user can initiate a transaction, but the primary user must approve each one in real time (by entering UPI PIN) before it is completed. 

Full Delegation (Spend with Limits) The secondary user can transact independently up to a limit set by the primary user — no need for approval each time (as long as the transaction is within the allowed limits). 

Transaction / Monthly Limits In full delegation mode, the per-transaction limit is ₹5,000, and the monthly limit is ₹15,000. 

Transparency / Control All transactions by secondary users are visible to the primary user. In partial mode, each request must be approved. The primary user retains control to modify or revoke permissions. 

Interoperability / Cross-platform UPI Circle is becoming interoperable across UPI apps (BHIM, PhonePe, Google Pay). That means primary and secondary users can be on different UPI apps and still use the feature. 

Useful for families: e.g. a parent lets a child make small payments (school fees, snacks), but retains control. 

For elderly / dependents: a caregiver can help manage payments for them, while the elderly person remains in the loop. 

For small businesses or helpers: owners can let trusted staff initiate payments (for fuel, supplies) under limited authorization. 

Promotes financial inclusion: individuals who may not have bank accounts or are less tech-savvy can still transact via trusted persons. 

How to Use / Set Up UPI Circle in BHIM

Here’s a step-by-step guide based on available sources:

Update BHIM app

Ensure your BHIM app is version 4.0.2 or later. 

Open UPI Circle section

Within BHIM app, look for “UPI Circle” in the menu or home page. 

Add Secondary User

You can add by entering their UPI ID or by scanning their QR code. 

The secondary user must accept the invitation. 

Choose Delegation Type

Approve Every Payment (Partial Delegation).

Spend with Limits (Full Delegation).

Set limits (monthly / per transaction) if choosing full delegation. 

Confirm / Authorize Setup

Once settings are configured, confirm using UPI PIN or as required. The setup may take a few minutes to become active. 

Operate

Secondary user initiates payments (within their access).

If partial mode, request goes to primary for approval.

The transaction is completed only after primary approves.

Primary can monitor, edit, or revoke access any time. 

Limitations & Considerations / Things to Note

Even with full delegation, there are limits: typically ₹5,000 per transaction and ₹15,000 per month. 

In partial delegation mode, the daily UPI limits (that apply to your account) still apply. 

The feature requires both parties to use UPI and compatible apps. Secondary users must accept the invitation.

The feature was initially limited to BHIM, but cross-platform interoperability is being introduced, meaning primary & secondary can be on different UPI apps. 

You must trust the secondary user, even if there are limits — misuse is possible if permissions are mis-set.

The feature is new, so some bank/UPI apps may roll out support gradually.