Bank Rules Change: If you have an account with the country’s largest public sector bank, the State Bank of India (SBI), then this news is very important for you. Starting February 15th, the method of sending money from your mobile or laptop won’t change, but the “cost” may change. SBI has revised the rules for transactions conducted through its IMPS (Immediate Payment Service).

In this era of Digital India, we often rely on IMPS for small payments because it delivers money instantly. But now, transferring larger amounts may require a little more effort for you. Let’s understand what changes SBI has made and how they will affect you.

1. When are these new rules coming into effect?

First, note the date. These new SBI service charges will become effective from February 15, 2026. This means that you will be able to send money under the old rules until midnight on February 14, but after that, the new rates will apply. This change is primarily aimed at those who transfer large amounts through internet banking or mobile apps.

2. How much more expensive will online transfers be now?

The bank has created a new slab for online transactions. The saving grace is that if you send up to ₹25,000, you won’t have to pay any charges. It will remain free as before. However, once the amount exceeds ₹25,000, the story changes:

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

This charge will apply across all digital channels, whether you use the YONO app or internet banking.

3. What’s the news for those who send money at a branch?

If you’re a fan of the old-fashioned method and prefer to wait in line at the bank to complete an IMPS transaction, there’s no change for you. IMPS transfers through branches will continue to attract the same charges. Up to ₹1,000 is free, while between ₹1,000 and ₹10,000, a fee of ₹2 + GST ​​is charged.

For larger amounts (₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh), a fee of ₹20 + GST ​​is charged at the branch. Simply put, the bank is encouraging you to go digital because online charges are still significantly lower than at the branch.

4. Who won’t have to pay a single penny?

SBI has exempted certain select customers from this new burden. If you have a salary package account, you don’t need to worry. Salary account holders such as DSP, PMSP, ICSP, CGSP, PSP, and RSP will not be charged these charges.

The bank has also exempted holders of the ‘Shaurya Family Pension Account’ and the ‘SBI Rishtey Family Savings Account’. Transactions in these accounts will continue as before, without any additional fees.

5. Limits and Precautions

You can transfer a maximum of ₹5 lakh per day through IMPS. This limit remains in place. The bank has also issued an important reminder: since IMPS works in real time and funds are instantly credited to the beneficiary’s account, it is virtually impossible to reverse them. Double-check the account number and IFSC code before sending money.

What is IMPS, and why is it special?

IMPS stands for Immediate Payment Service. It is a system that works 24×7, meaning you can send money in the blink of an eye, even on holidays. The bank also recently revised its ATM and cash deposit machine (ADWM) charges, which are now fully implemented.