How to Use Google Tez: Setup, Payments & Tips

Google Tez (now part of Google Pay) was a UPI-based payment app for India that let you send and receive money instantly using your bank account. This guide covers setting up the app, linking a bank account, making payments, requesting money, and using its unique features like “Tez Tokens” and cashless nearby payments. You’ll need a smartphone, an active Indian mobile number, and a bank account that supports UPI.

What You’ll Need

An Android (4.4+) or iOS (9.0+) smartphone with the Google Tez app installed from the Play Store or App Store.
An active Indian mobile number (the app sends an SMS for verification).
A bank account with a linked mobile number, and the bank must support UPI (most major Indian banks do).
Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) for transactions.
Your debit card details (optional, for additional verification in some banks).

Step-by-Step

Install the app: Download Google Tez from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Look for the icon with a blue background and a white “Tez” or a rupee symbol.
Open and agree to terms: Launch the app, read the privacy notice, and tap “Accept & Continue” to agree to Google’s terms and the UPI framework.
Verify your phone number: The app will ask for your mobile number. Enter it, then tap “Next”. Google Tez will send an SMS to confirm the number is yours. The app reads the SMS automatically; if not, enter the code manually.
Set your language and profile: Choose your preferred language (Hindi, English, etc.) and add your name as you want it to appear to others. You can also upload a photo later.
Create your UPI PIN: This is the 4-6 digit PIN you’ll enter for every transaction. The app will guide you to set it via your bank’s UPI service. You’ll need your debit card details (card number, expiry, CVV) for this step.
Link your bank account: Tap “Add Bank Account” and select your bank from the list. The app will fetch the account linked to your mobile number. If multiple accounts exist, choose one. Enter the last 6 digits of your debit card and its expiry to verify.
Set your UPI PIN (if not done earlier): Some banks require you to set a UPI PIN separately. Follow the on-screen prompts to create it. This PIN is different from your ATM PIN.
Start sending money: On the home screen, tap “Pay” or the “Send money” button. Enter the recipient’s mobile number, UPI ID, or scan their QR code. Enter the amount and add a note (optional).
Confirm and enter PIN: Review the recipient’s name and amount, then tap “Send”. Enter your UPI PIN to authorize. The money is transferred instantly from your bank account.
Request money: Tap “Request” or “Collect”. Enter the payer’s mobile number or UPI ID, the amount, and a note. They’ll receive a notification and can approve or decline.
Use Tez Tokens (nearby payments): To pay someone nearby without sharing numbers, both of you must be in the same room. Tap “Pay Nearby” and select “Tez Token”. The app generates a 4-character code (e.g., “AB12”). The other person enters the same code on their app, and the payment is linked. You can also use the “Cash Mode” which uses sound to pair devices.
Check your balance and history: The home screen shows your recent transactions. Tap on a transaction to see details. You can also view your bank balance by tapping the “Balance” icon (it may require a UPI PIN).

Common Mistakes

Entering the wrong UPI PIN: Three wrong attempts can block your UPI PIN for the day. Double-check before submitting.
Using the wrong mobile number: The number you use must match the one linked to your bank account. Otherwise, the bank verification fails.
Ignoring the SMS permission: The app needs SMS access to auto-read the verification code. Denying it can cause delays.
Sharing your UPI PIN: Never share your UPI PIN with anyone, including customer support. No legitimate party will ask for it.
Not checking the recipient’s name: Always verify the name shown before confirming a payment. A typo in the mobile number can send money to the wrong person.

Tips

Set a daily limit: You can set a daily transaction limit in the app settings to prevent large accidental transfers.
Use QR codes for quick payments: At stores, scan the merchant’s QR code instead of typing their number.
Enable fingerprint unlock: In settings, you can enable fingerprint authentication to avoid typing your UPI PIN every time (on supported phones).
Keep the app updated: Google Tez frequently updates with security patches and new features. Enable auto-update.
Link multiple bank accounts: You can link more than one account and choose which one to use for each transaction.

Troubleshooting

App not verifying your number: Ensure your phone has a working SIM and internet. Restart the app. If the SMS doesn’t arrive, request a resend. If it still fails, contact your bank to confirm your mobile number is registered.
Bank account not showing: Your bank may not be on the supported UPI list yet, or your mobile number isn’t linked to the account. Call your bank’s helpline to update your number.
UPI PIN setup failing: This usually happens if your debit card is expired or the details are incorrect. Try using a different debit card if you have one. If the bank’s UPI service is down, wait a few hours.
Payment stuck or pending: Check your internet connection. Go to “History” and see the status. If it shows “Pending”, wait a few minutes; UPI transactions usually settle instantly. If it fails, the money is reversed to your account within 24 hours.
Cannot use Cash Mode: Both devices need to have the app open and be in close proximity. Ensure your phone’s microphone permission is granted for the app.
App crashes or freezes: Clear the app cache (Android) or uninstall and reinstall. Make sure your phone’s OS is up to date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Google Tez different from Google Pay?

Yes, Google Tez was rebranded and merged into Google Pay in 2018. The features and UPI functionality remain the same, but the app is now called Google Pay.

Do I need to keep money in the app?

No, Google Tez works directly with your bank account. There’s no wallet balance. Money is debited from your bank account when you pay and credited when you receive.

Is there a fee for using Google Tez?

No, the app is free for personal use. Your bank may charge a nominal fee for UPI transactions, but most banks don’t.

Can I send money to someone who doesn’t have Google Tez?

Yes, as long as they have a UPI-enabled bank account. You can send to their UPI ID or mobile number linked to UPI. They’ll receive a notification to accept the payment.

What is the maximum amount I can send?

The limit is set by your bank and NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India). Typically, it’s ₹1 lakh per transaction, but some banks have lower limits. Check with your bank.

What should I do if I sent money to the wrong person?

Immediately contact your bank and report the transaction. They may be able to reverse it if the recipient hasn’t withdrawn the money. Also, try contacting the recipient through the app’s chat feature. There’s no guarantee of recovery.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.

More cards in this drawer

The whole Numbers and Powers drawer →