Online payment apps are mobile applications designed to enable digital transactions, eliminating the need for physical currency. These digital apps streamline payments through the Unified Payment Interface (UPI), offering swift and convenient money transfers. Users can send or receive funds and make payments to individuals or merchants by scanning QR codes. In 2023, we’ve compiled a list of India’s top ten best bill payment apps, considering factors such as security, user-friendliness, ratings, and more.
App Name | Rating | Download | App URL | Pros | Cons |
PhonePE | 4.6⭐ | 100M+ | Playstore link | * Wide range of features * Cashback rewards and discounts * Supports multiple payment methods * User-friendly interface * Available in multiple languages | * Requires a UPI PIN for payments |
GooglePay | 4.5⭐ | 500M+ | Playstore link | * Similar range of features to PhonePe * Supports multiple payment methods * User-friendly interface * Available in multiple languages | * Requires a UPI PIN for payments |
Paytm | 4.4⭐ | 100M+ | PlayStore link | * Wide range of features, including mobile recharge and online shopping * Cashback rewards and discounts * Supports multiple payment methods * User-friendly interface | * Not as widely available as PhonePe or Google Pay |
CRED | 4.5⭐ | 100M+ | Playstore link | * Offers cashback rewards and discounts on credit card bills * Tracks credit score and provides financial planning advice | * Not as widely available as PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm |
BHIM | 4.5⭐ | 5Cr+ | Playstore link | * Government-backed UPI payment app * Secure and convenient way to make payments * Offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments | * Not as many features as other apps |
AmazonPay | 4.4⭐ | 100M+ | Playstore link | * Integrated with the Amazon e-commerce platform * Can be used to pay for goods and services on Amazon, as well as to make bill payments * Offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments | * Not as many features as other apps |
Mobikwik | 4.2⭐ | 5Cr+ | Playstore link | * Wide range of features, including mobile recharge and online shopping * Cashback rewards and discounts * Supports multiple payment methods | * Not as widely available as PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm |
Freecharge | 4.1⭐ | 10M+ | Playstore link | * Similar range of features to Mobikwik * Offers cashback rewards and discounts * Supports multiple payment methods | * Not as widely available as PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm |
Airtel Thanks | 4.3⭐ | 100M+ | Playstore link | * Rewards program for Airtel customers * Offers cashback rewards on bill payments, discounts on airtime and data, and access to exclusive offers | * Only available to Airtel customers |
PayZap | 4.0⭐ | 10M+ | Playstore link | * Wide range of features, including bill payment, mobile recharge, and online shopping * Cashback rewards and discounts * Supports multiple payment methods | * Not as many features as other apps |
The use of online bill payment apps has been increasing in India in recent years. These apps offer a convenient and secure way to pay bills, such as electricity, water, gas, and phone bills. They also offer a variety of other features, such as cashback rewards, discounts, and the ability to recharge mobile phones and DTH.
Table of Contents
Here are the 10 best bill payment apps online in India in 2023:
PhonePe PhonePe is the most popular bill payment app in India. It offers a wide range of features, including cashback rewards, discounts, and the ability to pay bills in multiple currencies. PhonePe also supports a variety of payment methods, including UPI, credit cards, and debit cards.

Google Pay Google Pay is another popular bill payment app in India. It offers a similar range of features to PhonePe, including cashback rewards, discounts, and the ability to pay bills in multiple currencies. Google Pay also supports a variety of payment methods, including UPI, credit cards, and debit cards.

Paytm Paytm is a well-known e-wallet and payment app in India. It offers a variety of features, including bill payment, mobile recharge, and online shopping. Paytm also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

CRED CRED is a credit card bill payment app that offers cashback rewards and discounts. It also offers a variety of other features, such as credit score tracking and financial planning advice.

BHIM BHIM is a government-backed UPI payment app. It is a secure and convenient way to make payments to merchants and individuals. BHIM also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

Amazon Pay Amazon Pay is a payment app that is integrated with the Amazon e-commerce platform. It can be used to pay for goods and services on Amazon, as well as to make bill payments. Amazon Pay also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

Mobikwik Mobikwik is a mobile wallet and payment app that offers a variety of features, including bill payment, mobile recharge, and online shopping. Mobikwik also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

Freecharge Freecharge is a mobile wallet and payment app that offers a similar range of features to Mobikwik. It also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

Airtel Thanks Airtel Thanks is a rewards program for Airtel customers. It offers a variety of benefits, including cashback rewards on bill payments, discounts on airtime and data, and access to exclusive offers.

PayZapp PayZapp is a payment app that offers a variety of features, including bill payment, mobile recharge, and online shopping. PayZapp also offers cashback rewards and discounts on bill payments.

When choosing a bill payment app, it is important to consider the features that are important to you. Some factors to consider include the following:
- The range of bills that the app can pay
- The cashback rewards and discounts offered
- The payment methods that the app supports
- The security features of the app
- The user interface of the app
I hope this article has helped you to choose the best bill payment app for your needs.
How does an online payment app works?
An online payment app works by connecting you to a payment gateway, which is a secure server that processes payments. When you make a payment through an online payment app, your information is encrypted and sent to the payment gateway. The payment gateway then verifies your information and sends the payment to the merchant.
The steps involved in an online payment app are as follows:
- The user opens the online payment app and selects the merchant they want to pay.
- The app prompts the user to enter their payment information, such as their credit card number, expiration date, and CVV.
- The app encrypts the payment information and sends it to the payment gateway.
- The payment gateway verifies the payment information and sends it to the merchant.
- The merchant receives the payment and completes the transaction.
The steps involved in an UPI based online payment app are as follows:
- To access an online payment app:
- Connect your bank account or debit card by entering the required details.
- Upon successful connection, you’ll receive a unique UPI ID associated with your app account.
- Ensure the recipient also has a valid bank account linked to their payment app.
- For fund transfers:
- You can send money by either entering the recipient’s UPI ID or scanning their QR code to access their UPI address.
- A one-time password (OTP) will be sent to your registered mobile number for account ownership verification.
- The payment app validates the OTP before proceeding with the transaction.
- Many transactions are linked to mobile numbers, simplifying payments by entering the recipient’s mobile number.
- Additionally, you have the option to withdraw funds from your bank and store them in an e-wallet, enabling faster transactions without the need for repeated bank verifications.
Online payment apps are a convenient and secure way to make payments online. They offer a number of benefits, including:
- Convenience: Online payment apps make it easy to make payments without having to leave your home or office.
- Security: Online payment apps use encryption to protect your payment information.
- Flexibility: Online payment apps can be used to pay for a variety of goods and services.
- Rewards: Many online payment apps offer rewards programs that can help you save money.
If you are looking for a convenient and secure way to make payments online, then an online payment app is a good option for you.
The Benefits of Using Online Payment Apps
Online payment apps are a convenient and secure way to make payments for goods and services. They offer a number of benefits, including:
- Convenience: Online payment apps make it easy to make payments without having to leave your home or office. You can pay for your groceries, bills, and even your cab fare with just a few taps on your phone.
- Security: Online payment apps use encryption to protect your payment information. This means that your credit card number and other sensitive data are kept safe from hackers and fraudsters.
- Flexibility: Online payment apps can be used to pay for a variety of goods and services. You can use them to shop online, make bill payments, and even send money to friends and family.
- Rewards: Many online payment apps offer rewards programs that can help you save money. For example, you might earn cashback rewards or discounts on future purchases.
- Speed: Online payments are processed quickly and easily. This means that you can get your purchase or service right away, without having to wait in line or mail a check.
If you are looking for a convenient, secure, and flexible way to make payments, then an online payment app is a good option for you.
Here are some of the specific benefits of using online payment apps:
- Save time: Online payment apps can save you time by eliminating the need to write checks, go to the bank, or wait in line to pay bills.
- Reduce errors: Online payment apps can help you avoid errors by automatically entering your payment information and calculating the correct amount due.
- Improve security: Online payment apps use encryption to protect your payment information, making it less likely that your data will be compromised.
- Get rewards: Many online payment apps offer rewards programs that can help you save money or earn cashback.
- Stay organized: Online payment apps can help you track your spending and stay on top of your bills.
The Limitations of Online Payment Apps
Online payment apps have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a convenient and secure way to make payments for goods and services. However, there are some limitations to these apps that users should be aware of.
One limitation is that online payment apps can be vulnerable to fraud. Hackers can steal users’ personal and financial information, such as credit card numbers and passwords, and use this information to make unauthorized payments. To protect yourself from fraud, it is important to use strong passwords and to be careful about where you enter your personal information.
Another limitation is that online payment apps can be slow or unreliable. If the app’s servers are overloaded or if there is a problem with your internet connection, your payment may not go through. To avoid this, it is best to make payments during off-peak hours and to make sure that you have a strong internet connection.
Finally, online payment apps can be expensive. Some apps charge fees for each transaction, and others may have monthly or annual subscription fees. To save money, it is important to compare the fees of different apps before you choose one.
Despite these limitations, online payment apps can be a convenient and secure way to make payments. By being aware of the potential risks and taking steps to protect yourself, you can use these apps safely and securely.
Here are some additional limitations of online payment apps:
- They may not be accepted everywhere. Some businesses may not accept online payments, especially for small or large purchases.
- They may not be available in all countries. Some online payment apps are only available in certain countries.
- They may not be suitable for all types of payments. Some online payment apps are not designed for making payments for certain types of goods or services, such as gambling or travel.
Overall, online payment apps offer a number of advantages, but they also have some limitations. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of these apps before deciding whether or not to use them.
Before selecting a payment app, there are several factors to consider:
- Security: It is crucial to understand the security measures provided by an online payment app before using it. Most apps require you to link your digital wallet to your bank account, granting access to your financial information. Avoid apps that request excessive access permissions unrelated to digital payments. Additionally, opt for apps that offer multi-factor authentication for added security.
- User-Friendly Interface: Online payment apps should have an intuitive and user-friendly interface. Assess whether you can easily navigate the app and if it facilitates smooth and quick transactions. A confusing user interface can lead to payment errors and frustration.
- Customer Support: Payment apps should offer excellent customer support to address any issues users may encounter. Technical glitches or network errors can result in delayed or stuck payments, so choose an e-payment app with responsive and efficient customer service to resolve such problems promptly.
- Perks and Rewards: Many e-payment apps offer incentives such as discount coupons, free mobile recharges, cashback, and more to make digital payments more appealing. Consider choosing a payment app that offers rewards that are easily redeemable and align with your spending habits and preferences.
What is An UPI Address?
A UPI address, also known as a Virtual Payment Address (VPA), is a unique identifier that is used to send and receive money through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in India. It is a combination of your name or nickname, followed by an ‘@’ symbol and the initials of your bank. For example, your UPI address could be johndoe@hdfcbank
or smriti@icicibank
.
UPI addresses are convenient to use because they are easy to remember and share. You can also create multiple UPI addresses for different bank accounts.
To create a UPI address, you will need to download a UPI-enabled app, such as Google Pay or Paytm. Once you have downloaded the app, you will need to create an account and link your bank account. Once your bank account is linked, you can create a UPI address.
Here are the steps on how to create a UPI address on Google Pay:
- Open the Google Pay app.
- Tap on the Profile icon in the top right corner.
- Tap on Bank accounts.
- Tap on the bank account that you want to link to your UPI address.
- Tap on Create UPI ID.
- Enter your name or nickname.
- Select your bank.
- Tap on Create.
Once you have created a UPI address, you can start sending and receiving money through UPI.
Here are some of the benefits of using a UPI address:
- Convenient: UPI addresses are easy to remember and share.
- Secure: UPI uses strong encryption to protect your personal and financial information.
- Fast: UPI payments are processed instantly.
- Widely accepted: UPI is accepted by a large number of merchants and businesses in India.
What is IJCERT and what is its research about UPI?
IJCRT stands for International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts. It is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal that publishes research articles in all areas of engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
IJCRT has published several research papers on UPI, including:
- “A Study on the Adoption of UPI in India” by Singh et al. (2020) investigated the factors that influence the adoption of UPI in India. The study found that the most important factors were the convenience of UPI payments, the security of UPI payments, and the awareness of UPI payments.
- “The Impact of UPI on the Indian Economy” by Kumar et al. (2021) examined the impact of UPI on the Indian economy. The study found that UPI has had a positive impact on the Indian economy, leading to increased financial inclusion, economic growth, and job creation.
- “The Security of UPI Payments” by Pandey et al. (2022) analyzed the security of UPI payments. The study found that UPI payments are generally secure, but there are some risks that users should be aware of.
- The following document is published by IJCRT about history of UPI in India.
These are just a few examples of the research that IJCRT has published on UPI. The journal is a valuable resource for researchers who are interested in learning more about UPI and its impact on the Indian economy and society.
How the Online Payment Apps and UPI are related to Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) of India?
The Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) of India, also known as the Digital Rupee, is a digital or virtual currency that is issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). It is expected to be launched in the coming years.
UPI is a real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It allows users to make instant payments to merchants, friends, and family members using their bank account details.
Payment apps, such as Google Pay and Paytm, are used to facilitate UPI payments. These apps allow users to scan QR codes, enter UPI addresses, or generate UPI PINs to make payments.
The RBI has said that CBDC will be interoperable with UPI. This means that users will be able to use CBDC to make payments through UPI-enabled apps.
The interoperable CBDC-UPI system will offer several advantages over the current system:
- It will be more convenient for users, as they will not need to create separate accounts for CBDC and UPI.
- It will be more secure, as CBDC will be backed by the RBI.
- It will be more efficient, as payments can be processed instantly.
- It will promote financial inclusion, as it will make it easier for people to access digital currency.
The interoperable CBDC-UPI system is expected to be a major step forward in the development of digital payments in India.
Here are some of the specific ways in which payment apps and UPI will be related to CBDC:
- Payment apps will be used to create and manage CBDC wallets.
- Payment apps will be used to make payments using CBDC.
- Payment apps will be used to exchange CBDC for fiat currency.
- Payment apps will provide users with access to information about CBDC, such as its value and features.
The interoperable CBDC-UPI system will make it easier for people to use CBDC and will help to promote the adoption of digital currency in India.
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FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of using a bill payment app?
A: There are many benefits to using a bill payment app, including:
- Convenience: Bill payment apps make it easy to pay your bills on time, from anywhere.
- Security: Bill payment apps use strong encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information.
- Features: Bill payment apps often offer features like auto-pay, reminders, and cashback rewards.
- Cost: Bill payment apps are often free to use, or they have low fees.
Q: How do I choose the best bill payment app for me?
A: When choosing a bill payment app, you should consider the following factors:
- The types of bills you need to pay: Make sure the app supports the types of bills you need to pay.
- The features you need: Consider the features that are important to you, such as auto-pay and reminders.
- The fees: Compare the fees of different apps to find one that fits your budget.
- The security features: Make sure the app uses strong encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information.
- The user interface: Make sure the app is easy to use and navigate.
Q: How do I set up a bill payment app?
A: Setting up a bill payment app is usually easy. You will need to create an account and provide some basic information, such as your name, email address, and bank account information. Once you have created an account, you can add your bills and start paying them.
Q: What if I have a problem with a bill payment app?
A: If you have a problem with a bill payment app, you should contact the app’s customer support team. They will be able to help you resolve the issue.
Q: Which is the best payment app in India?
A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best payment app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular and well-rated payment apps in India include:
- Google Pay
- Paytm
- PhonePe
- Amazon
- BHIM UP
These apps offer a variety of features, such as UPI payments, bill payments, recharges, and cashback rewards. They also have a good track record of security and reliability.
Q: Why is UPI best for payment apps?
A: UPI stands for Unified Payments Interface. It is a real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). UPI allows users to make instant payments to merchants, friends, and family members using their bank account details.
UPI is best for payment apps because it is:
- Fast: UPI payments are processed instantly.
- Secure: UPI uses strong encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information.
- Convenient: UPI payments can be made from anywhere, using your smartphone.
- Widely accepted: UPI is accepted by a large number of merchants and businesses in India.
Q: In which countries are UPI apps available?
A: UPI apps are currently available in India only. However, the NPCI is working to expand the availability of UPI to other countries in the future. Goverment of India is trying to conect the UPI payment system with France and UAE and other contries.
Q: Which is better, Paytm or GPay?
A: Paytm and Google Pay are two of the most popular payment apps in India. Both apps offer a variety of features, such as UPI payments, bill payments, recharges, and cashback rewards. They also have a good track record of security and reliability.
Here is a comparison of the two apps:
Feature | Paytm | Google Pay |
---|---|---|
UPI payments | Yes | Yes |
Bill payments | Yes | Yes |
Recharges | Yes | Yes |
Cashback rewards | Yes | Yes |
Security | Good | Good |
Reliability | Good | Good |
User interface | Good | Good |
Ultimately, the best app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an app with a wide range of features and a good track record of security and reliability, then either Paytm or Google Pay would be a good choice.
Q: Which pay app is safest?
A: All of the major payment apps in India are considered to be safe. They all use strong encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information. However, there are some factors that you can consider when choosing a safe payment app, such as:
- The app’s reputation: Choose an app that has a good reputation and a track record of security.
- The app’s security features: Make sure the app uses strong encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information.
- The app’s user interface: Choose an app that is easy to use and navigate. This will help you to avoid making mistakes that could compromise your security.
Q: Which UPI app is safe?
A: All of the major UPI apps in India are considered to be safe. They all use the same security features as the UPI platform itself, which is developed and managed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
When choosing a UPI app, you can consider the same factors as you would when choosing a safe payment app, such as the app’s reputation, security features, and user interface.