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. 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. 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. 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.

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