Bank mapping with Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) is a crucial process (how to do bank mapping with AEPS) for businesses, banks, and payment service providers to ensure seamless transactions. Whether you’re a fintech startup, a banking professional, or an agent facilitating AEPS transactions, proper bank mapping prevents errors, reduces failed transactions, and enhances customer trust.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to do bank mapping with AEPS correctly, providing a step-by-step checklist to avoid mistakes. We’ll also cover common challenges, best practices, and FAQs to help you master the process.
What is Bank Mapping in AEPS?
Before diving into the steps, let’s clarify what bank mapping means in the context of AEPS.
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Bank Mapping refers to linking a customer’s Aadhaar number with their bank account to enable AEPS-based transactions.
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AEPS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System) allows users to perform basic banking services (cash withdrawal, balance inquiry, fund transfers) using only their Aadhaar number and biometric authentication.
Without proper bank mapping, AEPS transactions fail, leading to customer dissatisfaction and operational inefficiencies.
Why is Bank Mapping Important?
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Prevents Transaction Failures – Ensures Aadhaar is correctly linked to the bank account.
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Enhances User Experience – Customers enjoy smooth, hassle-free transactions.
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Reduces Reconciliation Issues – Proper mapping minimizes discrepancies in transaction records.
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Compliance with NPCI Guidelines – Mandatory for banks and payment service providers (PSPs).

Step-by-Step Checklist for Bank Mapping with AEPS
Follow this structured checklist to ensure accurate bank mapping:
1. Verify Aadhaar and Bank Account Linkage
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Confirm that the customer’s Aadhaar is seeded (linked) with their bank account.
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Customers can check this via:
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Net Banking (Check Aadhaar linking status).
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Bank Branch (Visit with Aadhaar & passbook).
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NPCI Mapper Tool (For banks/PSPs).
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2. Validate Bank’s Participation in AEPS
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Not all banks support AEPS. Check if the bank is NPCI-approved for AEPS services.
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Refer to the NPCI AEPS bank list (available on the official NPCI website).
3. Use the Correct AEPS Bank IIN (Issuer Identification Number)
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Each bank has a unique IIN (first 6 digits of the account number).
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Example:
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State Bank of India (SBI): 500002
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HDFC Bank: 501000
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Entering the wrong IIN leads to transaction failures.
4. Ensure Proper Biometric Authentication Setup
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AEPS relies on fingerprint/iris authentication via UIDAI.
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Test biometric devices for accuracy before processing transactions.
5. Test with a Small Transaction First
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Before processing large transactions, perform a balance inquiry or small cash withdrawal to confirm successful mapping.
6. Maintain Updated Records
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Keep logs of mapped accounts for audit and troubleshooting.
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Use AEPS transaction APIs (for fintech companies) to automate verification.
7. Handle Failed Mappings Gracefully
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If a transaction fails:
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Recheck Aadhaar-bank linkage.
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Verify IIN and bank participation.
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Ensure biometric device is functioning.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid in AEPS Bank Mapping
❌ Incorrect IIN Entry – Always double-check the bank’s IIN.
❌ Unlinked Aadhaar – Ensure Aadhaar is seeded in the bank’s records.
❌ Using Non-AEPS Banks – Confirm the bank supports AEPS.
❌ Biometric Failures – Keep fingerprint scanners clean and calibrated.
Best Practices for Smooth AEPS Bank Mapping
✔ Regularly Update Bank IIN List – Banks may change IINs; stay updated.
✔ Train Agents & Staff – Proper training reduces mapping errors.
✔ Use AEPS APIs for Bulk Verification – Automate checks for efficiency.
✔ Monitor Transaction Logs – Identify and resolve recurring issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can a customer check if their Aadhaar is linked to their bank account?
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Via SMS (Send “UID LINK <last 6 digits of Aadhaar>” to 567676).
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Through net banking or bank branch verification.
2. What if AEPS transactions fail despite correct mapping?
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Check UIDAI server status.
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Ensure the biometric device is UIDAI-certified.
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Verify bank server connectivity.
3. Can AEPS work without bank mapping?
No, Aadhaar must be seeded with the bank for AEPS transactions.
4. How long does bank mapping take?
Usually instant if Aadhaar is pre-linked. Otherwise, it may take 24-48 hours after seeding.
5. Which banks support AEPS?
Most major banks (SBI, HDFC, ICICI, etc.) support AEPS. Check NPCI’s latest list.
Conclusion
Proper bank mapping with AEPS is essential for smooth, error-free transactions. By following this checklist, you can avoid common pitfalls, enhance customer experience, and ensure compliance with banking regulations.
Always verify Aadhaar linkage, use the correct IIN, test transactions, and keep systems updated. With these best practices, you’ll maximize AEPS efficiency and minimize failures.
Disclaimer
This post is for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns regarding this content, please visit our DMCA page for removal requests. Always verify banking procedures with official sources like NPCI or your bank.