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Millions of customers of the State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest public sector bank, are set to face higher costs while transferring money instantly. SBI has announced changes to its IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) charges, making certain online money transfers more expensive from February 15, 2026. Until now, this service was largely free for most digital users, but the new fee structure will impact customers who transfer higher amounts online.

IMPS is widely used for real-time fund transfers through internet banking and the YONO app. Due to its speed and convenience, it has become a preferred option for sending money instantly. However, under the revised rules, online IMPS transactions above a specific amount will no longer be completely free.

What Is Changing for SBI Customers?

According to the updated policy, SBI will start levying service charges on online IMPS transactions exceeding ₹25,000. These charges will apply to transfers made through digital platforms such as internet banking and the YONO mobile app. The new fee structure will be effective from February 15, 2026.

Previously, SBI customers could transfer amounts of up to ₹5 lakh online via IMPS without paying any service fee. This applied across all digital channels. With the new rules, only smaller transactions will remain free, while higher-value transfers will attract nominal charges.

New Online IMPS Charges Explained

Under the revised structure, online IMPS transfers between ₹25,000 and ₹5 lakh will be chargeable. The charges are as follows:

* **₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh:** ₹2 plus GST
* **₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh:** ₹6 plus GST
* **₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh:** ₹10 plus GST

For example, if a customer transfers ₹3 lakh via YONO or internet banking, an IMPS fee of ₹10 along with applicable GST will be deducted. Transactions of up to ₹25,000 made online will continue to remain free, offering relief to customers who primarily use IMPS for smaller payments.

What Was the System Earlier?

Until now, SBI did not charge any fee for online IMPS transfers, regardless of the transaction amount, as long as it was within the permissible limit of ₹5 lakh. This made SBI one of the most customer-friendly banks for digital fund transfers. The new change marks a significant shift, especially for users who frequently move large sums digitally.

That said, SBI has clarified that branch-based IMPS transactions will continue under the existing fee structure, with no revisions announced for offline transfers.

Charges for IMPS Transactions at Branches

Customers who prefer visiting an SBI branch for IMPS transactions will continue to pay the existing charges:

* **Up to ₹1,000:** Free
* **₹1,000 to ₹1 lakh:** ₹4 plus GST
* **₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh:** ₹12 plus GST
* **₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh:** ₹20 plus GST

This means that even after the new rules, online IMPS transfers will still be cheaper than branch-based transactions, although they will no longer be entirely free.

Who Will Be Exempt From These Charges?

SBI has provided relief to customers holding certain special account categories. These account holders will not be required to pay any online IMPS charges, even after the new rules come into effect. Exempted accounts include:

* Salary package accounts such as DSP, PMSP, CGSP, PSP, and RSP
* Shaurya Family Pension Account
* SBI Rishta (Family Savings Account)
* CSP, SGSP, and SUSP accounts

If your account falls under any of these categories, online IMPS transactions will continue to remain free of charge.

What Should Customers Do Now?

Customers who frequently transfer large amounts using IMPS should factor in the additional cost while planning transactions after February 15, 2026. Those who mostly transfer smaller sums up to ₹25,000 can continue using IMPS online without worrying about charges. Alternatively, users may also explore other digital payment options depending on their transaction needs.

 Final Takeaway

SBI’s decision to revise IMPS charges marks an important change for digital banking customers. While the charges are relatively small, they signal the end of completely free high-value online IMPS transfers. Customers are advised to stay informed about the new fee structure and check whether their account category qualifies for exemptions to avoid unexpected deductions.