IMPS error 91: Deemed approved
Source: Axis Bank, IMPS Response Codes for H2H/API. These are NPCI IMPS response codes; other banks use the same codes but may word them differently.
What it means
Deemed approved. The receiver's bank didn't confirm in time, so the transfer is treated as approved while its final status is verified.
Yes, your account has been debited. The transfer either completes or is reversed.
Do not re-initiate with the same CRN
What you should do
Don't send it again. Ask the receiver to check. If it doesn't arrive, the money comes back.
If you run payouts
Axis Bank's guidance for this code is 'do not re-initiate'. Hold it as pending and verify status before doing anything.
Related codes
IMPS in brief
IMPS moves money between banks instantly, at any hour, on any day. Transfers go either by account number and IFSC, or by mobile number and MMID. The network limit is ₹5 lakh per transaction, though your bank can set a lower one, which is why codes like 04 and 22 exist.
Checking what happened
Open the transaction in your bank app or net banking and note its RRN, the 12-digit reference number also sent by SMS. The receiver's bank can trace the transfer with it, and you'll need it for any complaint. If the status says pending or deemed approved, wait for the final status before sending the money again.
If it still isn't sorted
- Raise a complaint inside your banking app. Quote the RRN from your statement or SMS.
- If the app doesn't resolve it, contact your bank's grievance desk with the same reference.
- If your bank hasn't replied within 30 days, or you're not happy with the reply, complain to the RBI Ombudsman at cms.rbi.org.in. It's free.