RBI had issued a notification on processing of e-mandate on cards for recurring transactions back in August 21, 2019. Recurring transactions based on standing instructions given to the merchants by the cardholders were brought within the ambit of Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA). The circular was applicable for transactions performed using all types of cards – debit, credit and Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs), including wallets. The maximum permissible limit for a transaction under this arrangement was set to ₹ 2,000/-.
All recurring transaction above ₹ 2,000/- was supposed to be stopped by September 1, 2019 and further got extended till 31st March 2021. Therefore, effective 1 April, 2021 any standing instruction for recurring transactions on your cards will not be approved by card issuing bank.
To avoid any disruption in delivery of services(especially if you have setup for utility payments), starting 1 April, 2021 you need to make payments directly to the service providers for your bills as and when they become due.
