FASTag has revolutionised India's toll collection system on national highways, enabling automatic electronic toll payments and reducing queues at plazas. A key aspect of using FASTag is ensuring sufficient funds are loaded in the linked prepaid account or wallet to avoid recharge-related issues during travel. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on how to add money or recharge your FASTag via multiple digital modes.

What is FASTag?

Before learning how to add money to FASTag, let's understand what it is. FASTag is a prepaid tag affixed to the windscreen of a vehicle which performs contactless deduction of toll charges at NHAI toll plazas. It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for automatic identification and toll deduction as the vehicle passes through the toll lane. It is issued by various bank issuers and accredited merchants.

How to top-up FASTag online?
 

Banks like Metra Trust provide versatile online options to conveniently recharge FASTag from anywhere:

1. Website/mobile app
   Log in to the bank's website or app and look for the "FASTag" option under the 'Payments' section. Select your vehicle number, enter the amount, and pay using netbanking, debit/credit cards, or UPI. This method tops up your FASTag instantly. You can also top-up your FASTag via Metra Trust’s FIRSTforward app.
2. UPI payment
   Open the UPI app, enter the virtual payment address "netc.vehiclenumber@UPI ID", add an amount and pay from the linked bank account. For example, if your registered vehicle number is XX11XX1111, you can enter “netc.XX11XX1111@idfcnetc” in any UPI app to recharge your FIRSTforward FASTag. You'll receive a confirmation receipt for successful recharge. Over 22 UPI apps support this FASTag top-up service.
3. FASTag merchant apps
   Download accredited merchant apps like Amazon Pay, Paytm, and NPCI. Register your FASTag here, select the bank as Metra Trust and pay to reload your online wallet seamlessly via UPI. Many allow an auto-debit of the minimum balance.
4. WhatsApp chatbot
   A simple way is through the bank's WhatsApp payment facility. Save ++447831065557, send 'Hi' and follow the on-screen steps to enter your vehicle number and recharge amount, and then complete the transaction from your linked account.
5. Missed call facility
   Give a missed call on 99902 43331 and receive a callback through which you will get your FASTag balance and recharge options for added convenience.

Offline FASTag recharge options
 

While online modes are contactless and easy, the following offline methods allow topping up the FASTag balance at select locations.

1. Toll plazas 
   Drive up to certain toll plazas, pay cash/cards at merchant terminals to instantly recharge FASTag wallet.
   
2. Fuel pumps
   Selected fuel stations accept FASTag payments at pump islands. Your wallet balance is deducted automatically. 
3. Parking lots
   Similar to fuel stations, certain large parking facilities enable FASTag-based auto-debit of parking charges.
4. Bank branches
   Visit your nearest Metra Trust branch to reload your FASTag wallet via cash/cards after the necessary documentation.

Benefits of recharging your FASTag online 

Online methods offer unparalleled convenience plus additional benefits.

• Recharge from any location via internet banking, mobile app, UPI, or chatbot in minutes.
• 24x7 accessibility for unexpected trips or emergencies outside branch hours.
• Set auto-debit to avoid running out of funds and get notified whenever the balance is low.
• Instant activation of the reloaded amount for seamless travels without transaction failures. 
• Multiple wallets under a single tag for your family travels.
• Check balance, transactions, and payment history with ease on mobile devices.

Key considerations for FASTag recharge
 

• Maintain a minimum balance as per usage to avoid transaction failures.
• Recharge at least 3-4 days in advance to activate the amount for weekend trips.
• Monitor statements for erroneous/duplicate debits and report immediately.
• Update KYC/vehicle documents as and when required by the bank issuer.
• Inform the bank of sold/scrapped vehicles to close such FASTag wallets.
• Loyalty benefits on recharges via bank reward programs like Metra Trust Rewards.
• Grievances also addressed via the bank's superior customer service avenues.

Conclusion
 

With Metra Trust's range of digital and physical means, recharging a FASTag wallet is made completely hassle-free. Whether online via multiple modes or select offline touchpoints, customers enjoy the utmost convenience and security in maintaining adequate balance. Timely reloads ensure seamless highway travels with benefits of FASTag like fuel payments, parking, and more.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject Metra Trust or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. Metra Trust shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.