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UTR Number? Meaning, Examples, Importance & How to Check

Features & updates - 18 Mar, 2025

Table of Contents

What Is a UTR Number?

A Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number is an alphanumeric code assigned to financial transactions in India. Banks generate this identifier for every transaction made through NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, or UPI. It acts as a digital marker, allowing banks and customers to track and verify payments efficiently.

UTR Number Example

A Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number is automatically generated when funds are transferred between bank accounts. This identifier ensures each transaction is distinct. The format varies depending on the payment method:

NEFT transactions usually have a 16-character UTR number.
UPI transactions are assigned a 12-digit UTR code.
RTGS transactions typically feature a 22-character UTR.

Sample UTR Number Format: XXXXRCYYYYMMDD########

XXXX – The first four characters denote the sender bank’s IFSC (Indian Financial System Code).
R – Indicates that the transaction was processed via the RTGS system.
C – Represents the transaction channel (e.g., internet banking, mobile banking).
YYYYMMDD – Specifies the transaction date in the format: Year, Month, and Day.
######## – A unique sequence number assigned to the transaction.

This structured format helps in tracking and verifying transactions efficiently.

Importance of UTR Numbers

Transaction Tracking:

UTR numbers are fundamental for tracking financial transactions. They act as a unique identifier, allowing banks and customers to trace the path of a transfer.
Dispute Resolution:

In cases of discrepancies, the UTR number serves as crucial evidence to pinpoint and resolve transaction-related issues.
Accounting and Tax Compliance:

UTR numbers are essential for maintaining precise financial records, which are vital for accounting and tax compliance. Tax authorities may use these numbers to verify financial transactions.
Security and Transparency:

By providing a traceable record, UTR numbers enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions, helping to deter and detect fraud.

Key Points Reinforcement:

UTR numbers for various transfer methods: It is correct that UTR numbers are used in NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI transactions.
Audit trail: They do indeed create a clear audit trail, which is beneficial for both personal and business finances.
Tax authority use: Tax authorities do utilize UTR numbers for transaction verification.

In summary, the provided information accurately reflects the importance and function of UTR numbers in financial transactions.

How to find out your UTR Number?

A Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number can be easily found through different methods. Here’s how you can check it:

Method 1: Bank Statements or Passbooks

Access Your Statement or Passbook
- Retrieve your latest bank statement from your bank’s online portal or update your physical passbook at the bank.
Locate the Transaction
- Identify the transaction you need by checking the transaction date, amount, and reference details.
Find the UTR Number
- Look for labels like ‘Reference Number,’ ‘UTR Number,’ or ‘Unique Transaction Reference’ in the transaction details.

Method 2: Internet Banking

Log In
- Sign in to your bank’s internet banking portal with your credentials.
Go to Transaction History
- Navigate to the ‘Transaction History’ or ‘Account Statement’ section.
Select the Transaction
- Find and click on the specific transaction for more details.
View the UTR Number
- The UTR number will be displayed under fields such as ‘UTR,’ ‘Reference Number,’ or ‘Transaction ID.’

Method 3: Mobile Banking

Open Your Banking App
- Log in to your bank’s mobile app.
Navigate to Transaction History
- Go to the ‘Transaction History’ or ‘Account Statement’ section.
Select the Relevant Transaction
- Choose the transaction you need to check.
Find the UTR Number
- Look for the UTR under ‘Reference Number,’ ‘UTR ID,’ or similar fields.

Method 4: Transaction Confirmation Email or SMS

Check Your Messages
- Search for transaction confirmation emails or SMS from your bank.
Locate the UTR Number
- Open the message and find the UTR number in the transaction details.
Save the UTR for Reference
- Copy or note down the UTR for future tracking.

By following these methods, you can easily retrieve your UTR number whenever needed.

How to check a UTR Number Online?

If you need to check your UTR (Unique Transaction Reference) number online, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to Your Bank’s Online Banking Portal

Visit your bank’s official online banking website. Ensure a secure connection.
Sign in using your user ID and password. Some banks may require additional security verification, such as an OTP (One-Time Password) or security questions.

Step 2: Access Transaction History

Navigate to the section labeled ‘Transaction History,’ ‘Account Statement,’ or ‘Transactions.’
If you have multiple accounts, select the one used for the transaction.

Step 3: Locate the Transaction

Use filters to search by date, amount, or transaction type to find the specific transaction.
Click on the transaction to view detailed information.

Step 4: Find the UTR Number

Check the transaction details for labels like ‘UTR Number,’ ‘Reference Number,’ or ‘Unique Transaction Reference.’
Copy or note the UTR number for tracking purposes.

If you cannot locate the UTR number, reach out to your bank’s customer support for assistance.

Key Features of a UTR Number

A Unique Transaction Reference (UTR) number is an essential identifier for electronic fund transfers, particularly in systems like NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI. Below are its key features:

Unique Identification
Each transaction is assigned a distinct UTR number, allowing banks and users to identify and track individual transfers.
Transaction Tracking
The UTR number enables real-time tracking of a fund transfer’s status—whether it is completed, pending, or failed.
Dispute Resolution
In case of delays or failed transactions, banks use the UTR number to investigate and resolve issues efficiently.
Inter-Bank Traceability
Since NEFT and RTGS operate across multiple banks, a UTR number ensures seamless tracking of transactions between different financial institutions.
Format Variations
The format and length of a UTR number differ based on the transaction type:
- RTGS: Usually 22 characters
- NEFT: Usually 16 characters
- IMPS & UPI: Varies based on the payment system
Embedded Information
A UTR number typically contains details such as:
- The originating bank
- The date and time of the transaction
- A unique sequence identifier
Proof of Payment
A UTR number serves as official proof that a transaction has been successfully processed.
Tax Compliance
Authorities may use UTR details to verify financial transactions for taxation and audit purposes.

Conclusion

The UTR number is a crucial element in electronic transactions, ensuring security, traceability, and compliance while facilitating smooth fund transfers across banking systems.

FAQ's

UTR Number Means?

A UTR (Unique Transaction Reference) number is an alphanumeric code used to uniquely identify and track financial transactions. It is primarily used for electronic fund transfers like NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI.

What does UTR stand for in banking?

UTR stands for Unique Transaction Reference.

Where can I find the UTR number in Google Pay (GPay)?

In Google Pay, the UTR number is usually labeled as the “Transaction ID” or “UPI Transaction ID.” To find it:

Open the Google Pay app.
Go to “Payment History” or “Transactions.”
Select the specific transaction.
The UTR/Transaction ID will be displayed in the transaction details.

How is a UTR number generated?

UTR numbers are generated automatically by the banking system when a transaction is processed. The generation process involves a combination of factors, including:

The originating bank’s code.
The type of transaction (NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, UPI).
The date and time of the transaction.
A unique sequence number.

How many digits are in a UPI UTR number?

A UPI UTR number is typically a 12-digit alphanumeric code.

How many digits are in a NEFT UTR number?

A NEFT UTR number is typically a 16-digit alphanumeric code.

How many digits are in an RTGS UTR number?

An RTGS UTR number is typically a 22-character alphanumeric code.

Can I use a UTR number to dispute a transaction?

Yes, the UTR number is crucial for disputing transactions. It serves as proof of the transaction and helps banks trace and resolve discrepancies.

What should I do if I can’t find my UTR number?

If you can’t find your UTR number:

Check your transaction history in your banking app or digital wallet.
Review your bank statements or passbook.
Look for SMS or email notifications related to the transaction.
Contact your bank’s customer service for assistance.

Are UTR and Transaction ID always the same?

While “Transaction ID” is often used interchangeably with UTR in UPI transactions, the term “Transaction ID” can be more general. In NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS, UTR is the specific and standard term. So while within the UPI ecosystem they are basically the same, in the wider banking system they are not.

How do I get a UTR number for a UPI transaction?

To get a UTR number for a UPI transaction:

Open the UPI app used for the transaction.
Go to the transaction history.
Select the transaction.
The UTR/Transaction ID will be displayed.

Why is the UTR number important?

The UTR number is essential for:

Tracking and verifying transactions.
Resolving transaction disputes.
Providing proof of payment.
Ensuring accountability in electronic fund transfers.

Do all online transactions have a UTR number?

No, not all online transactions have a UTR number. UTR numbers are primarily associated with electronic fund transfers processed through banking networks, such as NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI. Regular debit or credit card purchases online may have other transaction identifiers, but not necessarily a UTR.

Are UTR numbers only used in India?

While the term “UTR” is commonly used in India, similar transaction reference numbers exist in other countries. The specific format and name may vary depending on the country’s banking system.

Phonepe UTR number check?

Open PhonePe and go to History:
1. Launch the PhonePe app on your smartphone.
2. Tap on the “History” option, usually located at the bottom of the screen.
Select the Transaction:
1. Find and select the specific transaction for which you need the UTR number.
Locate the UTR Number:
1. Within the transaction details, look for the “Debited from” section.
2. The 12-digit UTR number will be displayed there, often alongside your bank account details.

UTR number in paytm?

Open the Paytm app: Start by opening the Paytm application on your mobile device.
Go to “Balance & History”: Navigate to the “Balance & History” section, where your transaction records are stored.
Select the transaction: Choose the specific transaction for which you need the UTR/UPI reference number.
View the details: Once you’ve selected the transaction, the details, including the unique 12-digit UPI reference number (UTR), should be displayed.