If you’re an SBI Credit Card user, here’s something you’ll want to pay attention to — starting November 1, 2025, SBI Card is rolling out new rules that could quietly make your everyday transactions a bit more expensive.
From wallet recharges to school fee payments, a new 1% transaction fee will kick in on certain types of payments. And while one percent might sound small, the truth is — if you often make these payments, it could add up faster than you think.
Let’s break down what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can avoid unnecessary charges.
What Exactly Is Changing from November 1?
SBI Card announced that beginning November 1, 2025, the company will start levying a 1% fee on:
- Education-related payments made through third-party apps or payment aggregators.
- Digital wallet loads above ₹1,000 per transaction.
This means if you pay your child’s tuition through a payment app, or if you recharge your Paytm, PhonePe, or any digital wallet with more than ₹1,000 — expect a 1% deduction on the amount.
Example: Loading ₹2,000 into your wallet will cost you an extra ₹20.
Education Payments: The Smart Way to Avoid Fees
Here’s the thing — SBI isn’t penalizing education payments altogether. The 1% charge applies only when you pay through third-party apps.
If you make the payment directly to your school, college, or institution — either through their official website or by swiping your SBI card at the institution’s POS terminal — you won’t be charged anything extra.
So, before paying next semester’s fees, double-check how you’re making that payment. Choosing the right channel could save you hundreds over the year.
Wallet Loads: Convenience Comes at a Price
Digital wallets are handy, no doubt. But convenience now comes with a small cost.
From November 1, if you load more than ₹1,000 into any digital wallet, SBI Card will deduct 1% of the amount.
If you recharge your wallet multiple times a month, that “small” fee can snowball quickly. So, it’s worth planning your wallet top-ups carefully — or simply using your card directly where possible.
Other SBI Card Charges to Keep in Mind
While these new rules are grabbing headlines, remember that SBI Card already has several existing fees that every cardholder should know about:
- Cash Payment Fee: ₹250
- Dishonor Fee: 2% of the amount (minimum ₹500)
- Cheque Payment Fee: ₹200
- Cash Advance Fee: 2.5% of the transaction (minimum ₹500)
- Card Replacement Fee: ₹100–₹250 (up to ₹1,500 for Aurum cards)
- Late Payment Charges: Ranging from ₹400 to ₹1,300 depending on outstanding amount
These aren’t new, but with the upcoming changes, being aware of all fees can help you plan your credit card usage wisely.
Why Is SBI Doing This?
Think about it — every time a card transaction goes through a third-party payment app, SBI Card pays intermediary fees. With more people using apps instead of direct payment gateways, these costs have piled up.
By adding a 1% user fee, SBI aims to recover some of those costs while encouraging users to make payments through official channels — which are safer, faster, and often more transparent.
A Quick Tip Before November 1
If you frequently pay tuition, recharge wallets, or handle bills using your SBI card — now’s the time to rethink your payment method. Use official portals whenever possible, and consider setting up auto-pay options directly with institutions to skip those third-party surcharges altogether.
It’s a small habit change that could save you a surprising amount each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the new SBI Card rules take effect?
The new SBI Card fee rules will apply from November 1, 2025, for all users.
2. How can I avoid the 1% education payment fee?
Make payments directly through your institution’s official website or POS terminal instead of third-party apps.
3. Does the 1% wallet load fee apply to every transaction?
No. It applies only to wallet loads exceeding ₹1,000 per transaction. Smaller loads remain unaffected.