How to add payment method in IRCTC?

Navigating IRCTC Payment Options: A Step-by-Step Guide

Booking train tickets on IRCTC is convenient, but understanding the payment process is crucial. This guide will walk you through adding and using payment methods to successfully finalize your bookings.

Accessing the Payment Gateway:

After selecting your preferred train, class, and seats, proceed through the IRCTC booking process until you reach the final “Pay & Book” stage. This is where you’ll select your payment method.

Available Payment Options:

IRCTC offers a variety of payment methods to cater to diverse user preferences. These generally include:

• UPI (Unified Payments Interface): A popular and increasingly prevalent option in India, UPI allows for instant payments through various apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, etc. This is often the quickest and most convenient method.

• Credit Cards: Major credit cards from both Indian and international banks are typically accepted. Ensure your card details are accurate and that your card has sufficient funds.

• Debit Cards: Similar to credit cards, debit cards linked to your bank account can be used. Confirm that your card is enabled for online transactions and possesses adequate funds.

• Autopay: In certain scenarios, IRCTC may mandate Autopay. This typically involves pre-registering your preferred payment method (often UPI or linked bank accounts) for automatic deduction of fares. While initially seeming restrictive, Autopay can streamline the booking process, especially for frequent travelers. More details on setting up Autopay are often available within the IRCTC website’s help section or frequently asked questions.

Adding a New Payment Method:

While some methods may be pre-selected or saved from previous transactions, adding a new payment method usually involves:

1. Selecting the payment option: At the “Pay & Book” stage, choose your preferred method (e.g., UPI, Credit Card, Debit Card).

2. Entering payment details: Carefully enter the required details. For UPI, you’ll typically enter your UPI ID or scan a QR code. For cards, you’ll need the card number, expiry date, CVV, and potentially your cardholder’s name.

3. Verification: IRCTC may employ a verification process, such as an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number or email address. This is a crucial security step to ensure the transaction’s legitimacy.

4. Confirmation: Once the verification is successful, confirm the payment details and finalize the booking.

Troubleshooting:

If you encounter issues adding a payment method or completing the transaction, review the following:

• Internet connectivity: Ensure a stable internet connection.
• Card details: Double-check the accuracy of your card information.
• Bank account balance: Make sure you have sufficient funds.
• Transaction limits: Your bank might have daily or monthly transaction limits.
• IRCTC website status: Occasionally, the IRCTC website may experience technical glitches. Try again later or contact IRCTC customer support.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can seamlessly add your preferred payment method and finalize your IRCTC ticket bookings efficiently. Remember to always prioritize secure online practices and protect your financial information.