The landscape of financial transactions in India is rapidly evolving, and at ( How to Get AEPS Franchise) the heart of this revolution in rural and semi-urban areas is the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS). If you’re looking for a low-investment, high-impact business opportunity that serves a critical need, then learning how to get AEPS franchise is your first step. This isn’t just about starting a business; it’s about becoming a vital financial access point for your community. This comprehensive guide for 2025 will walk you through the entire updated process, the costs involved, and the strategies to succeed.
What Exactly is an AEPS Franchise?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s clarify the “what.” AEPS is a bank-led model that allows online financial transactions at Micro-ATM terminals through a Business Correspondent (BC) using just the Aadhaar number and biometric authentication. An AEPS franchise is essentially a partnership where you, as an individual or entity, act as a Business Correspondent for a bank or a larger BC company (known as a Corporate BC).
You become the face of digital banking in your locality, offering services like:
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Cash Withdrawal
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Cash Deposit
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Balance Enquiry
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Aadhaar to Aadhaar Fund Transfer
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Mini Bank Statements
The demand is fueled by the government’s push for financial inclusion and the massive penetration of Aadhaar, making it a future-proof business model.
The Updated Process to Get AEPS Franchise in 2025
The process has become more streamlined over the years. Here’s your step-by-step roadmap for 2025.
Step 1: Research and Select the Right Partner
You don’t apply directly to banks. Instead, you partner with a registered Corporate Business Correspondent (BC) company or an FSP (Financial Service Provider) that has tie-ups with multiple banks. Your choice of partner is critical.
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Top Players: Research leading names in the industry like PayNearby, Bankit, Eko India Financial Services, Fino Payments Bank, and PhonePe. New players are emerging, so look for companies with a strong reputation and wide bank network.
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Key Selection Criteria:
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Commission Structure: What percentage or fixed fee do you earn per transaction? Compare different providers.
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Technology: Is their app/device interface user-friendly and stable?
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Support: Do they offer robust training, marketing support, and responsive customer service?
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Product Portfolio: Many providers offer more than just AEPS (e.g., bill payments, insurance, travel bookings). A wider portfolio means more earning opportunities.
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Step 2: Fulfill the Eligibility Criteria
The basic requirements to get an AEPS franchise are straightforward:
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Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
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Documents: Valid PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, and a cancelled cheque from your personal bank account (for commission payouts).
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Educational Qualification: Minimum 10th pass is standard, though some partners may require 12th pass or graduation.
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Infrastructure: You need a small physical space—a shop, kiosk, or even a room in your house—with a stable internet connection.
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Investment Capacity: You must have the capital for the required equipment (we’ll discuss costs next).
Step 3: Understand the Investment and Costs Involved
One of the biggest advantages of this model is its low entry barrier.
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Device (Micro-ATM/Fingerprint Scanner): This is your primary investment. You can purchase it outright from your BC partner or sometimes get it on a refundable security deposit. Costs typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000.
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Smartphone/Tablet: If the system is app-based, you’ll need an Android device.
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Working Capital: You need a float amount (liquidity) to facilitate cash withdrawals for customers. This can start from as little as ₹5,000 and can be increased as your transaction volume grows.
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Setup Fee: Most reputable Corporate BCs do not charge a separate franchise fee. Be wary of companies asking for exorbitant upfront “franchise fees.”
Total Initial Investment: You can realistically start a basic AEPS franchise for an initial investment of ₹10,000 to ₹20,000, excluding working capital.
Step 4: The Application and Onboarding Process
Once you’ve chosen a partner:
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Apply: Visit the official website of your chosen Corporate BC (e.g., PayNearby, Bankit) and look for their “Partner with Us” or “Become an Agent” section. Fill out the online application form with your personal and location details.
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Verification: A representative from the company will likely contact you for a quick verification call or visit to assess your location and suitability.
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Document Submission: You will need to submit scanned copies of your KYC documents (PAN, Aadhaar) and a photograph.
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Agreement Signing: The company will provide a partner agreement. Read it carefully, focusing on terms of service, commission, and clauses related to device security deposit.
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Training: You will receive training—either in-person, via a video call, or through detailed tutorial videos. This training covers how to use the device/app, perform transactions, handle customer queries, and manage liquidity.
Step 5: Setup and Launch
After approval:
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You will receive the login credentials for your agent app/portal.
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You will procure the fingerprint scanner device (by purchasing it or placing a security deposit).
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Install the necessary application on your smartphone.
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Set up your place of business. A clear signboard stating “AEPS Services Available Here” can attract customers from day one.
How to Maximize Your Earnings from an AEPS Franchise
Getting the franchise is just the beginning. Success depends on your strategy.
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Location is Key: Set up in an area with high footfall and limited banking facilities—local markets, residential areas, near bus stands, or in villages.
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Offer Multiple Services: Don’t just stick to cash withdrawal. Promote deposits, fund transfers, and especially other services like bill payments, mobile recharges, and insurance. This diversifies your income streams.
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Build Trust: Your business runs on trust. Be transparent about charges, handle transactions carefully, and build a rapport with your customers.
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Manage Liquidity Smartly: Keep a careful record of your cash flow. Ensure you have enough cash for peak times (like festivals or weekends) but not so much that it sits idle and poses a security risk.
The Bottom Line: Is an AEPS Franchise Right for You?
The AEPS franchise business is a powerful tool for financial inclusion and a genuine opportunity for entrepreneurs. It requires minimal investment, has a recurring revenue model, and addresses a massive, growing need. If you are a people-person looking for a stable business that truly helps your community, this is an excellent choice for 2025 and beyond. The process to get AEPS franchise is designed to be simple and accessible, opening doors for thousands of aspiring business owners every year.
Take the first step today by researching the top Corporate BC companies and reaching out to them. Your journey to becoming a key player in India’s digital economy awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a shop to start an AEPS franchise?
Not necessarily. While a fixed location builds trust, you can start from your home or even operate as a mobile agent, especially in rural areas, using a portable fingerprint scanner and a smartphone.
2. What is the average monthly income from an AEPS business?
Earnings are entirely transaction-based. A diligent agent in a good location can easily make ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per month. Your income grows with your customer base and the number of services you provide.
3. Is this business safe and legal?
Absolutely. AEPS is a framework launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). You are working as a authorized agent for RBI-approved banks and Corporate BCs.
4. What if a transaction fails but the customer’s account is debited?
This is a common concern. Every corporate BC has a well-defined grievance redressal mechanism. You can raise the issue through your agent app, and the company will work with the bank to reverse the failed transaction. This process is typically resolved within 72 hours.
5. Can I work with multiple BC companies?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended for a beginner. Managing multiple devices, apps, and liquidity requirements can be complex. It’s better to start with one strong partner and scale later.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. The process, costs, and terms to get an AEPS franchise can vary between different Corporate Business Correspondent companies. It is essential to conduct your own independent research and directly contact your chosen service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information before making any financial commitment. If you have any concerns regarding the content of this post, please visit our DMCA page for guidance on content removal and ownership issues.