The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) suggests that Paytm FASTag customers should obtain a new FASTag from another bank before March 15.This advice aims to prevent penalties or extra charges during travel on National Highways.
According to NHAI’s advisory on March 13, 2024, acquiring a new FASTag from a different bank before the deadline ensures a seamless travel experience and prevents inconvenience at toll plazas. This step aligns with the RBI’s guidelines regarding restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank. After March 15, Paytm FASTag users won’t be able to recharge or top up their balance, but they can use their existing balance to pay tolls beyond this date.
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Here’s what you need to know about the status of your Paytm FASTag and how to manage it effectively:
Closing your Paytm FASTag account
If you’re a Paytm FASTag user, you must close your account by March 15, 2024, as per the RBI directive. To do this, you’ll need to deactivate your existing FASTag issued by Paytm Payments Bank and obtain a new FASTag from another NHAI-authorised issuer.
Avoiding penalties and additional fees
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) advises Paytm FASTag customers to procure a new FASTag from another bank before the stipulated deadline to avoid penalties or additional fees while commuting on National Highways.
Difficulty in closing Paytm FASTag
You cannot transfer your Paytm Payments Bank FASTag to another account, and there’s no option to transfer the credit balance within the FASTag product. Consequently, you’ll need to close your old FASTag issued by Paytm Payments Bank and request a refund from the bank.
Once you request the closure, it typically takes 5-7 working days for the FASTag account to be closed. During this process, any security deposit and minimum balance will be refunded to your Paytm Payments Bank wallet.
Several users have expressed difficulties in closing their Paytm FASTag accounts through social media platforms, according to an ET report.
Checking Paytm FASTag status
To initiate the closure of your Paytm FASTag account, you can call the toll-free number 1800-120-4210. When contacting customer support, provide your mobile number associated with the tag registration, along with either the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) or Tag ID. A Paytm Payments Bank customer support agent will then contact you to confirm the closure of your FASTag account.
Alternatively, you can also raise concerns or issues regarding your FASTag through the 24×7 help section of the Paytm app. Simply select the ‘Fastag’ category and choose the most suitable issue from the options provided.
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Here’s how you can check your NETC FASTag status
- Go to the website: (https://www.npci.org.in/what-we-do/netc-fastag/check-your-netc-fastag-status)
- Choose your preferred search option: either “Search by FASTag ID” or “Search by Vehicle.”
- Enter the Captcha code provided.
- Click on the “Check Status” button.
Active Paytm FASTag
You can determine if your Paytm FASTag is active by checking the “Manage Tags” section in your FASTag sub-wallet. If your tag is active, it will be displayed there.
Managing FASTag online
You can also manage your FASTag online by visiting the official website of the FASTag issuer for your vehicle. Log in to your FASTag account to check your balance and view your account statement to track previous payments.
Paytm’s offerings and updates
According to a set of FAQs released by Paytm Payments Bank on March 14, 2024, they are offering HDFC Bank FASTags and facilitating FASTag recharges for other partnered banks through the Paytm app. However, customers cannot purchase Paytm Payments Bank FASTags. Nevertheless, they can recharge their Paytm Payments Bank FASTags before March 15 and continue using the balance until it’s depleted.