6 Best Payments Bank In India
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In the dynamic landscape of India’s banking sector, payments banks have emerged as key players, revolutionizing the way individuals and businesses conduct financial transactions. With a focus on providing convenient, accessible, and digital-first banking solutions, these institutions have become instrumental in fostering financial inclusion and driving the nation towards a cashless economy.
In this article, we explore the best payments banks in India, delving into their unique features, services, and contributions to the evolving financial ecosystem. From pioneering digital platforms to extensive networks of banking points, these payments banks are at the forefront of redefining the banking experience for millions across the country.
- Best Payments Bank In India
- Airtel Payments Bank
- India Post Payments Bank
- Fino Payments Bank
- Jio Payments Bank
- NSDL Payments Bank
- Aditya Birla Idea Payments Bank
- What are Payment Banks and How Do They Work?
- What are the Documents Required to Open a Payment Bank Account?
- How to Open a Payment Bank Account?
Best Payments Bank In India
What are Payment Banks and How Do They Work?
Payment banks are a distinct category of financial institutions introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) with the aim of expanding financial inclusion and fostering digital transactions in the country. These banks operate with a focus on providing basic banking services to the unbanked and underbanked population, leveraging technology to offer convenient and accessible financial solutions. Payment banks, unlike traditional banks, are not authorized to provide lending or credit services. Instead, they primarily offer the following services:
Savings Accounts: Payment banks are permitted to open savings accounts for customers. These accounts often have limitations on the maximum deposit amount, and the balance in these accounts cannot exceed a specified threshold.
Current Accounts: Payment banks can also offer current accounts to customers, facilitating transactions for businesses and individuals.
Mobile Banking: With a strong emphasis on digital transactions, payment banks provide mobile banking services. This includes features such as fund transfers, bill payments, and mobile recharges through mobile applications.
Remittance Services: Payment banks play a crucial role in enabling domestic remittance services. Individuals can use these banks to send and receive money, especially in regions with limited access to traditional banking.
Debit Cards and ATMs: Payment banks issue debit cards that can be used for transactions at ATMs, point-of-sale (PoS) terminals, and online platforms. However, they do not offer credit card services.
Third-Party Services: Payment banks often collaborate with third-party service providers to expand their offerings. This can include the sale of insurance and mutual fund products.
What are the Documents Required to Open a Payment Bank Account?
The specific document requirements for opening a payment bank account can vary slightly depending on the policies of the individual payment bank and regulatory guidelines. However, here is a general list of documents commonly required:
Proof of Identity (PoI):
- Aadhar card
- Passport
- Voter ID
- Driver’s license
- Government-issued photo identity card
Proof of Address (PoA):
- Aadhar card
- Utility bills (electricity, water, gas) in the applicant’s name
- Rental agreement
- Bank account statement
- Passport
Passport-size Photographs: Usually, a couple of recent passport-sized photographs are required for the account opening process.
PAN Card (Permanent Account Number): PAN card is often a mandatory requirement for opening a payment bank account.
Mobile Number Linked to Aadhar: Since payment banks focus on digital transactions and mobile banking, having a mobile number linked to your Aadhar card is often a crucial requirement.
Signature Proof: Some banks may ask for a signature proof, which could be verified against the signature on the account opening form.
Occupation and Income Details: Depending on the bank’s policies, you may be required to provide details about your occupation and income source.
KYC (Know Your Customer) Form: Completing the KYC form is a standard procedure for opening any bank account, including payment bank accounts.
How to Open a Payment Bank Account?
Opening a payment bank account typically involves a straightforward process. Here are general steps that can guide you through the account opening procedure:
Choose a Payment Bank: Decide on the payment bank where you want to open an account. Consider factors such as services offered, fees, accessibility, and digital features.
Visit the Nearest Access Point or Use the Mobile App/Website: Payment banks often have various access points, including physical branches, banking agents, and online platforms. Visit the nearest access point or use the official mobile app/website of the payment bank.
Fill Out the Account Opening Form: Obtain the account opening form, either in physical or digital format. Fill in the required details accurately. This may include personal information, contact details, and nominee details.
Submit KYC Documents: Provide the necessary KYC documents, which typically include proof of identity (PoI), proof of address (PoA), passport-size photographs, and your PAN card. Make sure to carry both original and photocopies of these documents.
Biometric Verification (if applicable): Some payment banks may require biometric verification, especially if Aadhar-based services are involved. This may include fingerprint scanning or other biometric authentication methods.
Mobile Number Verification: Verify your mobile number, as it is often linked to your payment bank account. This may involve receiving an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number.
Deposit Initial Amount (if required): Some payment banks may require an initial deposit to activate the account. Confirm the specific requirements with the bank and deposit the necessary amount.
Receive Account Details: Once the account opening process is complete, you will receive account details such as the account number and other relevant information.
Set Up Mobile Banking (if applicable): If the payment bank offers mobile banking services, download the official mobile app and set up your account for convenient digital transactions.
Collect Your Debit Card (if applicable): If a debit card is issued as part of the account, collect it from the bank or wait for it to be delivered to your registered address.
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