Starting an AEPS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System) service in rural areas doesn’t require a physical shop (How to Get AEPS ID Without Opening a Shop) or heavy investment. Many villagers rely on cash transactions, and AEPS provides a seamless way to withdraw money, check balances, and transfer funds using just an Aadhaar number. If you’re looking for a low-cost method to get an AEPS ID without renting a shop, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
What is AEPS and Why is it Useful in Villages?
AEPS is a bank-led payment system that allows transactions through Aadhaar authentication. It’s particularly beneficial in villages because:
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No need for debit cards or smartphones – Works with just an Aadhaar number and fingerprint.
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Financial inclusion – Helps unbanked individuals access basic banking services.
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Low-cost setup – Doesn’t require expensive infrastructure.
How to Get AEPS ID Without Opening a Physical Shop
Many assume that becoming an AEPS agent requires a shop, but that’s not true. Here’s how you can start without a commercial space:
1. Partner with a Banking Correspondent (BC) or Fintech Company
Several fintech firms and banks offer AEPS agent services without requiring a physical store. Companies like:
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PayNearby
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Eko India Financial Services
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Fino Payments Bank
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Bank Mitra (under NPCI)
Steps to Register:
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Visit the official website of a BC or fintech provider.
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Fill out the AEPS agent application form.
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Submit KYC documents (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details).
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Pay a minimal fee (usually ₹500–₹1,000 for device and registration).
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Receive your AEPS ID and a micro-ATM device.
2. Use a Mobile-Based AEPS Solution
Some companies provide AEPS services via smartphones with a biometric scanner. This eliminates the need for a bulky machine. Examples:
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Airtel Payments Bank AEPS
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PhonePe Business App
Process:
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Download the AEPS-enabled app.
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Complete KYC verification.
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Get a portable fingerprint scanner (costs around ₹2,000–₹3,000).
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Start offering AEPS services anywhere—home, village markets, or door-to-door.
3. Become a Sub-Agent Under an Existing Retailer
If setting up independently seems difficult, you can:
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Partner with a local kirana store or mobile recharge shop.
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Use their AEPS ID under a revenue-sharing model.
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This requires minimal investment—just a biometric device.
Cost Breakdown: Starting AEPS Services Cheaply
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| AEPS Registration | ₹500–₹1,000 |
| Biometric Device | ₹2,000–₹5,000 |
| Smartphone (if needed) | ₹5,000–₹10,000 |
| Total | ₹3,500–₹15,000 |
Compared to opening a shop (which costs ₹20,000+ in rent and setup), this is a budget-friendly way to start.
How to Earn Money with AEPS in Villages
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Commission on Transactions (₹5–₹20 per withdrawal).
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Money Transfer Services (IMPS, UPI).
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Bill Payments & Recharges (extra income).
Example: If you serve 20 transactions/day at ₹10 commission, you earn ₹6,000/month without a shop.
Challenges & Solutions
✅ Low Awareness → Conduct small demos in villages.
✅ Network Issues → Use areas with good mobile connectivity.
✅ Trust Building → Start with small transactions first.
Final Tips for Success
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Start small – Focus on nearby households.
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Offer additional services (like mobile recharges).
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Use word-of-mouth marketing – Villagers trust referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I run AEPS from home without a shop?
Yes! Many agents operate from home using a biometric device.
2. What’s the minimum investment for AEPS?
Around ₹3,500–₹5,000 for registration and a basic device.
3. Do I need a bank tie-up?
No, fintech companies handle banking partnerships.
4. How much can I earn daily?
Depends on transactions—anywhere from ₹200–₹1,000/day.
5. Is AEPS safe for villagers?
Yes, since it uses Aadhaar authentication, fraud risk is low.
Conclusion
Getting an AEPS ID without opening a shop is not only possible but also a smart way to enter rural banking services with minimal investment. By partnering with fintech firms, using mobile solutions, or working as a sub-agent, you can start earning quickly.
Ready to begin? Choose a banking correspondent, complete registration, and start serving your village today!
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