What is a UTR—and what should I do if a UTR search shows no payment?

What is a UTR—and what should I do if a UTR search shows no payment?

⚡Quick answer

A UTR (Unique Transaction Reference Number) is, as per RBI norms, a bank-generated identifier for transactions done through RTGS, NEFT, or IMPS. It follows a predefined format and acts as the key reference used to identify and verify a client’s payment.

When should I use this guide?

Consult this FAQ whenever you or a client needs to find, share, or confirm the official reference number for a payment made via RTGS, NEFT, or IMPS.




1. Definition & scope

As per RBI norms, a UTR is a Unique Transaction Reference Number that is generated by the bank initiating the transaction.




2. Payment systems that generate a UTR

• RTGS — Real Time Gross Settlement

• NEFT — National Electronic Funds Transfer

• IMPS — Immediate Payment Service




3. Why a UTR matters

The UTR number follows a predefined format and is used to uniquely identify any transaction. It serves as a key reference to identify and verify the payment made by a client.




4. What should I do if a payment cannot be found using its UTR?

If the portal search returns no record for the UTR, check whether the payment was made offline (RTGS/NEFT). Offline payments are pushed to the Account Panel only during two fixed update windows each working day:

Update cycle

Time window

1st update

12: 00 PM – 12: 30 PM

2nd update

06: 00 PM – 06: 30 PM




5. When does a UTR not apply?

The definition above covers transactions routed only through RTGS, NEFT, or IMPS.