Why you need a digital rupee wallet The Reserve Bank of India introduced the digital rupee (e₹) to offer a government-backed, cash-like digital currency. Unlike UPI or mobile wallets, e₹ resides directly on the central bank’s ledger. It combines the familiarity of cash with modern convenience: zero transaction fees, offline payments, and instant peer-to-peer transfers. To access these benefits, you’ll need to open a digital rupee wallet—many leading banks have already made e₹ wallets available.
Choose a participating bank In July 2025, some banks introduce e₹ wallets, i.e., State Bank of India, ICICI, HDFC, and Axis Bank. Look on your bank website or app to see if they have introduced an "e₹ Wallet" or "Digital Rupee" feature. RBI also keeps introducing new players periodically, so if your bank is not available yet, they may be announcing availability shortly. Keep looking through your bank's SMS notifications, emails, or mobile app notifications.
How to download and register the wallet Open your bank’s mobile app and look for the e₹ or Digital Rupee section. Tap “Create Wallet” and complete KYC by verifying your identity using your PAN and Aadhaar. Some banks may request additional authentication like a UPI PIN. Once registered, your e₹ wallet is activated instantly. You’ll be able to view your balance and begin transactions immediately—no separate app or account needed.
How to top-up and use your e₹ account balance e₹ wallet money can be recharged using funds transferred from your linked savings or current account via NEFT, IMPS, or UPI. Recharge is also facilitated in the branch or ATM of certain banks for ease. Having been recharged, you may transfer e₹ to other digital rupee wallets in real-time, even when offline via QR codes. Merchants must also receive payments in e₹—look for the e₹ symbol displayed at their shops.
Advantages and compliance tips The e₹ wallet offers full transaction transparency, real-time settlement, and no-cost. Since it is backed by the RBI, your digital rupee balance has zero credit risk or liquidity. Spend it like cash: uptime is guaranteed, data privacy ensured by the central bank. Keep your e₹ wallet application current, secure your PIN, and use it for minor day-to-day transactions—purchasing grocery, a metro ride, to name a few—to live the future of payments today.
