RBI changes auto-debit rules: ₹15,000 cap and what it means for your monthly bills

If you have set up auto-debits for your Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), insurance, or credit card bills, there is an update from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The central bank has issued consolidated directions on the Digital Payments – E-mandate Framework, 2026, essentially pulling together all existing rules while making a few tweaks. As the RBI notes, the move is to “consolidate extant instructions on e-mandates” and incorporate changes based on stakeholder feedback. The directions are effective immediately.

All rules in one place, with small tweaks

This isn’t a major overhaul. The RBI has largely retained the earlier framework, while making minor adjustments after feedback from industry players.

Your auto-pay won’t break if your card changes

No fees for using auto-debit

There’s also clarity on charges. The framework states that “no charges shall be levied on customers for availing of the e-mandate facility” for recurring payments.

Banks and issuers now have to include grievance redressal details in every post-transaction notification.

Importantly, rules on limiting customer liability for unauthorised transactions will apply to recurring payments as well, bringing auto-debits under the same safety net.

Auto-debit limits stay largely the same

• Up to ₹15,000 per transaction: No additional factor of authentication (AFA).

• Above ₹15,000: AFA required.

For certain payments, like insurance premiums, mutual fund subscriptions, and credit card bills, the limit without AFA goes up to ₹1 lakh per transaction.

The changes in instructions on e-mandates were based on feedback from stakeholders, the RBI said.