RBI E-Mandate Framework 2026 for Recurring Payments

Circular No. RBI/CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S56/02.14.003/2026-27, Dated 21.04.2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the “Digital Payments – E-mandate Framework, 2026”, consolidating all existing instructions on e-mandates for recurring digital transactions.

1. Scope and Applicability

The Directions apply to:

All Payment System Providers and Participants
Transactions through:

1. Cards
2. Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI)
3. UPI

Covers both domestic and cross-border recurring payments

2. Registration of E-Mandate

Requires one-time validation using Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA)
Customers must be provided the ability to:

1. Modify the mandate
2. Withdraw the mandate at any time

3. Authentication Requirements

3.1 First Transaction

Must be authenticated using AFA

3.2 Subsequent Recurring Transactions

Can be processed without AFA up to ₹15,000 per transaction

3.3 Higher Limit for Specified Categories

For transactions such as:

1. Insurance premiums
2. Mutual fund investments
3. Credit card bill payments

AFA not required up to ₹1,00,000 per transaction

4. Customer Protection Measures

The framework mandates:

Pre-transaction notification at least 24 hours before debit
Post-transaction notification
Opt-out facility for customers
Robust grievance redressal mechanism

5. No Charges to Customers

Customers shall not be charged any fee for registration or usage of e-mandate facility

6. Objective of the Framework

The Directions aim to:

Enhance security and user control
Promote convenience in recurring payments
Strengthen consumer protection in digital payments

7. Conclusion

The consolidated e-mandate framework provides a balanced approach between convenience and security, ensuring seamless recurring payments while safeguarding customer interests through robust controls and transparency.