Airtel Payments Bank Account: Full Review, Features, Benefits & Charges (2025)
Airtel Payments Bank is a digital-first initiative by Bharti Airtel that brings banking services to your fingertips. It’s one of India’s first 100% digital savings accounts that allows zero balance and offers quick access via the Airtel Thanks app.
Key Features of Airtel Payments Bank Account
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Minimum Balance | ₹0 (Zero Balance Account) |
| Virtual Debit Card | Free RuPay Virtual Card instantly issued |
| Interest Rate | Up to 2.5% p.a. on balance |
| Cash Withdrawals & Deposits | Available at 5 lakh+ retail banking points |
| Mobile App Access | Via Airtel Thanks App |
| Account Opening | Paperless, Aadhaar-linked mobile required |
| Fund Transfers | Supports UPI, IMPS, NEFT, AEPS |
| Cash Deposit Limit | Up to ₹50,000/month without PAN |
| Transaction Alerts | Free SMS & App Notifications |
| ATM Access | Paid upgrade to physical debit card |
Top Benefits
- Truly Digital Banking – No need to visit a branch.
- Zero Monthly Balance – Ideal for students and low-income users.
- Instant Setup – Create your account in 5 minutes.
- Free Insurance Offers – Accidental cover may be bundled.
- Widespread Cash Access – Use Airtel stores for deposit/withdrawal.
- UPI Ready – Instant UPI and QR support.
How to Open an Airtel Payments Bank Account
- Download the Airtel Thanks App.
- Select “Bank with us” and tap on “Open Savings Account”.
- Enter your mobile number (must be Aadhaar linked).
- Verify with OTP, fill KYC, and set mPIN.
- Your account will be activated instantly.
Charges & Fees (2025)
| Service | Charges |
|---|---|
| Account Opening | Free |
| Minimum Balance | Nil |
| Virtual Debit Card | Free |
| Physical Debit Card | ₹100/year (approx.) |
| Cash Withdrawals | ₹10–₹25 depending on amount |
| UPI, IMPS, NEFT | Mostly Free |
| SMS Alerts | Free |
| Inactivity Fee | None |
Who Should Use This Account?
- Students and new users of banking
- Freelancers and gig workers
- Rural customers needing local banking
- People seeking UPI-ready digital accounts
Customer Reviews (2025)
- Positive: Easy onboarding, great UPI experience, fast mobile recharge
- Negative: Limited ATM use, support response can be slow, withdrawal fees via partners
Comparison With Other Zero Balance Accounts
| Feature | Airtel Payments Bank | Kotak 811 | IndusInd Delight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Account Type | App (Airtel Thanks) | App & Web | Web |
| Interest Rate | 2.5% p.a. | 3.5–4% p.a. | 4–6.75% p.a. |
| ATM Card | Paid (Optional) | Free 1st Year | Optional (Paid) |
| Branch Access | No | Limited | Limited |
| Monthly Fees | Zero | Zero | Zero |
Final Verdict: Should You Open This Account?
If you’re looking for a quick, simple, and fully digital zero balance savings account with basic banking features and full UPI support, Airtel Payments Bank is a great option. However, if you expect branch banking or higher interest rates, alternatives like Kotak 811 or IndusInd Delight might suit you better.
Facebook Post Tags
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information and user feedback. Axis Bank may charge ₹200/month as a penalty for non-maintenance after KYC upgrade. Please confirm the latest charges and terms from the official Axis Bank website before opening an account. We are not financial advisors or affiliated with Axis Bank.
