From Flipkart Big Billion Days to Myntra's End of Reason Sale, India is in love with digital deals. But what if your UPI app could add more to your savings? At SavePlus India, we reveal how UPI apps like PhonePe, Paytm, and GPay can help you unlock extra discounts, cashback, and promo codes on every shop.

Leverage Sale-Day UPI Offers

UPI apps partner with top Indian e-commerce sites to roll out exclusive payment discounts during mega-sale events. These discounts often go unnoticed if users are not actively looking for payment-based filters. With the growing competition among wallets, new UPI-linked bonuses keep emerging. Flipkart and Amazon usually lead the race in bundling UPI payment rewards. Sale days like Diwali, Republic Day, and Independence Day are prime for such deals. You can boost savings by activating UPI promos just before the sale starts.

• Use PhonePe during Flipkart sales to claim cashback up to ₹500 in select product categories when the minimum order value is met.
  
  
• GPay offers scratch cards during Amazon's Great Indian Festival that may be worth ₹50-₹100, depending on transaction frequency.
  
  
• Paytm UPI users get bonus points during the Myntra Mega Sale, which can be converted into discount codes later.

Pro Tip: Activate UPI offers early, as they often come with limited usage caps and daily redemption thresholds.

Link RuPay Credit Cards to UPI

By linking RuPay credit cards to UPI apps, Indian users can enjoy layered savings across categories. This allows for combining credit card reward points and UPI cashback in a single transaction. Only RuPay cards are eligible for this facility currently, and users must verify this via their bank. With the popularity of EMI and BNPL, this combination is fast gaining traction. Brands have already started announcing exclusive cashback only for RuPay-UPI-linked users. You can significantly amplify benefits by choosing apps that support both card and wallet integration.

• HDFC RuPay via PhonePe gives 5% cashback on Tata CLiQ orders that exceed the monthly threshold of ₹500.
  
  
• SBI RuPay + Paytm unlocks exclusive discount codes usable on Paytm Mall and select partners.
  
  
• Axis RuPay credit on BHIM enables dining and retail cashback across selected restaurants and clothing outlets. 

Pro Tip: Not all cards are eligible—check with your issuing bank before trying to link RuPay cards with UPI apps.

Check the UPI App's Offer Tab

Most UPI apps in India have a hidden treasure trove under their offer tab. These offers are usually overlooked despite being highly rewarding. Brands use these in-app promos to increase retention and repeat purchases. Offers may be brand-specific or time-limited, so quick access and redemption are crucial. Some apps even allow you to combine their coupon with platform-level discounts. SavePlus India regularly monitors and highlights these app-level incentives.

• PhonePe Switch hosts cashback deals across 20+ stores, including grocery, fashion, travel, and electronics.
  
  
• Google Pay lists category-wise scratch card offers that include food delivery, entertainment, and utilities.
  
  
• Paytm's promo tab frequently includes flat discount coupons on prepaid recharges and shopping. 

Pro Tip: Bookmark your favorite brands inside these offer sections to access and redeem them faster during checkout.

Scan-and-Pay for Retail Rewards

Offline transactions via UPI apps can lead to online shopping rewards if done strategically. Many retail chains incentivize scan-and-pay with UPI by offering e-coupons. You can later redeem these on major Indian shopping platforms like Flipkart or Ajio. This feature bridges the online-offline rewards ecosystem. Store-specific offers are time-bound, so consistency is key. Regular usage also unlocks higher-value scratch cards from apps like Paytm and GPay.

• Scan at Big Bazaar and get online Flipkart vouchers sent directly to your UPI-linked email within 24 hours.
  
  
• Reliance Fresh UPI bills offer Amazon Pay scratch cards as rewards for every successful transaction above ₹500.
  
  
• More Retail transactions unlock Swiggy or Uber offers through coupon codes embedded in scratch cards. 

Pro Tip: Use a different UPI app for each offline bill payment to increase the variety and frequency of earned rewards.

Shop via UPI-Linked Brand Partners

UPI apps often create brand-specific tie-ups that deliver exclusive savings only through certain apps. These partnerships are tailored for Indian audiences and vary by region and season. You can enjoy flat discounts, reward points, or cashback on UPI-exclusive channels. Identifying which UPI app is running an offer with your favorite brand helps you plan better. Always compare offers before finalizing your payment method. SavePlus India lists these combinations daily for users.

• Zomato orders via GPay can get you ₹50 cashback when the order value exceeds ₹200 and payment is completed through UPI.
  
  
• Domino’s payments via PhonePe offer Friday-only discounts for users who pay through the PhonePe wallet or UPI.
  
  
• MakeMyTrip with Amazon Pay UPI enables a flat ₹200 off on flight bookings above ₹5000 for select users.

Pro Tip: Cross-check these brand tie-ups with SavePlus India before paying to ensure maximum cashback or coupon application.

Use UPI in Early-Access Sale Windows

Many sales events in India now have early-access windows for loyal UPI users. Being part of this group gives you first dibs on the best deals before they sell out. You usually need to be a premium wallet member or have a UPI transaction history. Gaining early access can make a big difference in high-demand product categories. Most platforms inform eligible users via push notifications. Always check your UPI app for sale access updates.

• Flipkart Plus UPI users get sale access 4 hours early during events like Big Billion Days and Supermart sale.
  
  
• Myntra's UPI access club begins 6 hours before the public sale and includes exclusive fashion deals.
  
  
• Nykaa grants exclusive beauty box offers and early shopping rights to Paytm UPI shoppers during promotions.

Pro Tip: Set sale reminders and ensure your KYC is updated to qualify for early-access privileges.

Combine UPI Discounts with Bank Coupons

Many Indian banks collaborate with UPI apps to stack offers during checkout. By paying with both a bank-linked UPI ID and a coupon, users can double their savings. These offers are common on weekends or during monthly sale events. Combine this with SavePlus India promo codes for maximum benefit. Offers vary by platform and are usually time-sensitive. Check for active coupons before you initiate payment.

• HDFC debit card + PhonePe gives additional cashback on BigBasket for grocery purchases above ₹1000.
  
  
• ICICI net banking with BHIM allows for added Amazon credits when shopping during partnered campaigns.
  
  
• Kotak UPI + credit card unlocks Lifestyle gift vouchers when used during festival days.

Pro Tip: Use SavePlus India filters to discover which bank-UPI combo gets you the best double-layered discount.

Use Cashback on Future Buys

Cashbacks earned through UPI transactions aren’t just wallet fillers—they’re future savings. Many apps allow you to store these as redeemable credits. You can apply them to pay for bills, shopping, or food delivery. This builds a revolving savings system. Apps like Paytm and PhonePe make it easy to track and redeem. Use them before they expire for the best value.

• Apply Paytm UPI cashback to electricity or DTH bills by selecting “Pay with cashback” at checkout.
  
  
• Use PhonePe cashback on Myntra orders by applying the balance before placing the final order.
  
  
• Redeem GPay rewards during checkout at BookMyShow, Zomato, or MakeMyTrip for seamless savings.

Pro Tip: Let cashback accumulate and use it during bigger shopping festivals for amplified value.

Watch for Festive UPI Challenges

Indian festivals come with huge promotional campaigns run by UPI apps. These include scratch card races, spin-the-wheel games, or referral bonuses. Completing simple challenges like sending money or scanning a QR code earns you rewards. Participation grows your wallet without extra spending. Look out for alerts during Diwali, Holi, and Independence Day. SavePlus India shares alerts ahead of time.

• Diwali Dhamaka via PhonePe gives scratch cards on each UPI transaction above ₹500.
  
  
• Holi Rush on GPay unlocks cashback for completing three transactions within 24 hours.
  
  
• Republic Day Paytm spins allow users to win free recharge coupons and shopping credits.

Pro Tip: Enable app notifications and join festive reward programs early to maximize benefits.

Join UPI Referral Programs

Referral programs are a goldmine for free rewards. UPI apps reward users for inviting friends who make transactions. The referred user often gets a bonus too. This builds a network of savings opportunities. Some apps give coupon bundles instead of cash. Festival periods usually have boosted referral values. Invite during sales for quick wins.

• PhonePe gives up to ₹100 per referral when the invitee completes their first transaction.
  
  
• GPay referral program unlocks coupon bundles like ₹50 Swiggy or ₹100 Ajio promo codes.
  
  
• Paytm's referrals offer direct credit to your Paytm wallet along with vouchers.

Pro Tip: Use SavePlus India to discover when referral reward amounts are highest during seasonal sales.

Time UPI Payments for Peak Cashback

Timing your UPI payments can unlock premium scratch cards. Many apps assign reward tiers based on peak activity periods. Lunchtime, dinner hours, and weekends usually have higher reward potential. Some even introduce flash hour bonuses. Keep an eye on in-app banners for cues. Combine this with your shopping needs for optimized rewards.

• Use GPay between 12–2 PM on weekdays for a higher cashback probability.
  
  
• PhonePe rewards surge after 7 PM during festival sale days like Raksha Bandhan and Diwali.
  
  
• Paytm boosts rewards during weekend shopping hours from 6–10 PM.

Pro Tip: Maintain a daily transaction streak during these times to unlock tiered reward levels.

Use UPI for Mobile Recharge Offers

Mobile recharges are a great way to trigger UPI app offers. Even ₹50 recharges can yield cashback or scratch cards. Leading telecom providers support all major UPI apps. You can recharge prepaid and postpaid numbers with bonus savings. Track which app is offering what deal. Recharges made during promotional hours offer more.

• Paytm UPI offers ₹10 off on Jio, Airtel, or Vi recharges above ₹50 for first-time users.
  
  
• PhonePe gives partner coupons like Swiggy or FirstCry when used for mobile recharges.
  
  
• GPay awards scratch cards on every third recharge made within 15 days.

Pro Tip: Stack recharge offers with SavePlus India telecom coupon codes for even bigger savings.

Use UPI for EMI-Linked Savings

Some platforms now let you use credit-based UPI payment methods for large purchases. These include EMI cards or BNPL solutions. EMI-linked savings can be maximized by opting for no-cost or zero-interest deals. Combining this with reward-based UPI payments compounds the benefit. Ensure your EMI plan supports UPI linkage.

• PhonePe + HDFC EMI card helps purchase electronics with no-cost EMI and cashback offers.
  
  
• Amazon Pay Later with UPI lets users split payments into three parts without extra fees.
  
  
• Flipkart Axis card offers instant discount and EMI when linked to UPI through Razorpay.

Pro Tip: Check the repayment schedule and charges before activating UPI-based EMI plans.

Use UPI Rewards for Subscription Discounts

UPI cashback and reward points can also lower your subscription costs. Platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and OTT apps allow UPI-based purchases. Apps often bundle subscriptions with extra perks if paid through UPI. Rewards can be redeemed for free trials or coupons. Watch out for banners inside payment screens.

• YouTube Premium via GPay often triggers a ₹30 cashback or a bonus scratch card.
  
  
• SonyLiv and Zee5 subscriptions are cheaper with Paytm UPI and include bonus months.
  
  
• Spotify via PhonePe UPI offers bundled trials and Amazon gift card options.

Pro Tip: Use saved UPI cashback to subscribe during festive subscription drive months like July and December

Participate in Government UPI Campaigns

India's government bodies also run UPI campaigns that reward digital adoption. These usually target semi-urban users or smaller retailers. Participants often win cashback, e-vouchers, or discounts for completing milestones. BHIM and NPCI apps lead these efforts. Timing your shopping with these campaigns can add surprise perks.

• NPCI cashback campaigns offer ₹200/month on completing 20 small-ticket UPI payments.
  
  
• BHIM rewards frequent users during events like Digital India Week with bonus credits.
  
  
• RBI-sponsored contests occasionally hand out Flipkart or Amazon gift vouchers.

Pro Tip: Follow NPCI and BHIM social pages for real-time updates on eligibility, duration, and rewards.

Conclusion

Your UPI app isn’t just for sending money—it’s your secret weapon for deeper discounts. Whether you shop on sale days, recharge your phone, or buy movie tickets, UPI rewards can add up fast. Use these 15 SavePlus India-approved hacks to maximize your cashback, promo codes, and referrals. Start today and turn every transaction into a saving opportunity.

FAQ

Which UPI app offers the best shopping discounts?
PhonePe and Paytm regularly provide shopping-specific cashback, brand tie-ups, and coupon rewards.

Can I use UPI with my credit card in India?
Yes, RuPay credit cards can now be linked to UPI for earning rewards and making payments.

Are UPI offers available during Indian festival sales?
Absolutely! Diwali, Holi, and Independence Day feature exclusive UPI campaigns on major shopping platforms.

How can I get early access to sales using UPI?
Many platforms like Flipkart and Myntra provide early-access deals to frequent UPI users or app members.

Where can I find the latest UPI-linked coupons?
Visit SavePlus India for updated offers from Flipkart, Amazon, Ajio, and more.