Today digital payments have become an essential part of our lives. From mobile recharge to electricity bills, we now make almost all payments online from our mobile phones. But have you noticed that recently, many payment platforms like PhonePe, Paytm and Google Pay are charging extra money for mobile recharge? For example, if you recharge your phone with Rs 100, Rs 103 or Rs 104 is deducted from your bank account. These apps are deducting this extra money in the name of ‘platform fees’. This charge may seem small, but when added up over months of bills, it can become a huge burden on your wallet.
What’s the real story behind platform fees?
In fact, some digital payment apps are now charging platform fees or processing charges for certain services. When you make a recharge or bill payment, you see a small extra amount added to the total amount along with tax on the screen. Most people do not pay attention to this and make the payment in a hurry. The companies claim that they are offering you a secure payment service, and in return they charge you platform fees. This fee usually ranges between Rs 1 to Rs 6.
how to save your money
If you are worried about this extra expense, you can save your money in these smart ways:
1. Use official apps – The easiest way to avoid platform fees is to stop using third-party platforms altogether. For example, if you need to recharge your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number, go directly to their official apps (like MyJio or Airtel Thanks). There select UPI option for payment. This will not only save you on platform fees, but you may also get special cashback or extra data offers.
2. Try banking apps – The banking apps already on your phone (like iMobile, YONO SBI, or HDFC MobileBanking) also allow recharge and bill payments. Since these are your bank’s apps, they do not charge any extra fees for mobile recharge or electricity bill payments. This can save you money on platform fees.
3. Use BHIM UPI – The Government of India has also launched its official payment app, BHIM UPI. Even today you can make any payment on this app without any platform fees. This app is also secure and often offers better rewards than many private apps. If you want to avoid the charges of popular apps, then BHIM UPI can be the best option for you.
You will see a difference at the end of the month
If initially the charge of Rs 2-3 seems less to you, then calculate the total at the end of the month. If you make 15-20 such payments in a month, it turns into hundreds of rupees in a year. A little awareness and the right approach can save you hundreds of rupees. Next time you make a payment, be sure to check the payment breakdown before proceeding. If you see “Platform Fees” written there, choose one of the methods mentioned above and save your hard-earned money.
