How to close a FASTag account?

Keeping change and a stack of cash on road trips for tolls is a thing of the past. Gone are the days of frustrating breaks in journeys where one had to wait in line to pay the toll, collect the receipt, and delay an otherwise smooth highway run. The introduction of cashless payments via FASTag has revolutionised toll payments on highways across India. FASTag offers a seamless, stopless and cashless experience, minimising the time spent crossing a toll plaza. A simple RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sticker on the windshield and a quick top up of funds on the corresponding FASTag account is all that’s required. But what do you do when you’re selling the car, or wanting to switch the connected bank account? There might be certain circumstances where you need to deactivate or close your FASTag account and this article will help you with all that you need to know if you want to deactivate your FASTag account.

CARS24 has compiled an in-depth guide for the various procedures and methods of deactivating a FASTag account. If you have more methods to share, along with tips for others to use for closing a FASTag account then share them with the CARS24 auto community, CLUTCH, where there are more interesting automotive discussions taking place.

What is a FASTag?

A FASTag is an electronic toll payment and collection service in India that was introduced by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It uses RFID technology to enable automatic deduction of toll charges when a vehicle passes through a toll plaza. A sensor located at a toll booth detects the unique RFID and processes an online transaction. This only requires slowing down of the vehicle for a few seconds, reducing time spent at a toll plaza drastically. 

FASTag comes as a small, translucent sticker that is affixed on the vehicle’s windshield. Every FASTag is unique and linked to a prepaid account or wallet from a bank account or payment app. The toll amount gets debited as you drive through the tolls and the service providers will send automated receipts of the tolls through texts.Automated texts are also sent when the balance is low thus eliminating the need to keep a constant check on the remaining funds.

Key features of FASTag

• Cashless toll payments - toll charges are automatically deducted from the linked bank account or payment app.
• Time-saving - Drastically reduces wait times and queues at toll plazas making for a hassle-free journey.
• Interoperability - FASTag isn’t state-specific and works across all toll plazas in India, regardless of the toll operator.
• Rechargeable - A FASTag is linked to your bank account, mobile wallet or credit card and works on a prepaid system that’s easy to recharge.

While purchasing a new car, one can get the FASTag activated and installed at the showroom itself, and existing owners can get one from their choice of bank or payment app. It is also mandatory to have a FASTag as cash toll payments can be declined. The benefits of FASTag make interstate travel all the more convenient; however there may be situations where you need to deactivate or close your FASTag account.

When to deactivate a FASTag account?

There are several circumstances and situations that might require you to deactivate or close your FASTag account, here are a few scenarios.

1. Vehicle sale

Since a FASTag is linked to your vehicle, a sale requiring transfer of ownership will need you to deactivate the FASTag. This is to prevent the new owner from using the FASTag, which, failing to do so, will lead to the toll amounts being deducted from your linked bank account. Thus, deactivation ensures that no further charges are deducted from your account.

2. Switching to a new provider

There are multiple FASTag providers including banks and payment apps. You might decide to switch from one provider to another for various reasons like ease of recharge, among others. In such cases, you need to deactivate your existing FASTag account before activating a new one with a different provider.

3. In case of theft or stolen vehicle

In the unfortunate event of your vehicle being stolen, it becomes vital to deactivate the FASTag to ensure that it cannot be misused for toll payments. 

4. Scrapped or decommissioned vehicle

If your vehicle is required to be scrapped or decommissioned, which means that it is no longer in use, then deactivating a FASTag is needed to ensure that it isn’t misused.

5. Duplicate FASTag accounts

There may be scenarios where multiple FASTag accounts exist for the same vehicle or a duplicacy has occurred due to an error in issuance. Deactivating the duplicates ensures that only the correct FASTag and the linked account are in use.

6. Account closure

You may simply want to close a FASTag account as its corresponding vehicle may not be used for highway journeys anymore and is restricted to intracity operations.

7. Accidental damage to the windshield

In a car mishap, damage to the windshield may render the FASTag useless thus requiring you to deactivate it and get a fresh issuance.

How to deactivate a FASTag account?

The basic processes of deactivating or closing a FASTag account involves several steps, and may vary slightly depending on the service provider.

1. Gather necessary information - Having details and information like the vehicle registration number, FASTag account number and your registered mobile number handy will smoothen the deactivation process.

2. Log in to your FASTag account - Access your FASTag account through the official website or mobile app of your service provider. You’ll need to log in using your credentials, such as your user ID and password, while in some cases, the registered mobile number and an OTP (One-time password) will suffice.

3. Navigate to the Deactivation/Closure section - Once logged in, locate the option for account deactivation or closure. This section may be under “Manage Your Account”, “Customer Service”, “Support” or similar headings.

4. Submit a deactivation request - Follow the prompts to submit a deactivation or closure request. You might need to specify the reason for deactivation and be asked to confirm your submission.

5. Deactivation confirmation

After submitting the closure request, you may be required to submit an OTP sent to your registered mobile number for additional verification. A confirmation email will follow after successful deactivation. Depending on the service provider, this may take from a few minutes to a few days.

Post deactivation, any remaining balance left in your FASTag account will be refunded. You can ensure that your bank details are up-to-date to avoid any delays in receiving the refund. It is also prudent to verify the deactivation after receiving a final confirmation from your service provider. Try checking your account status through the website or app to ensure that the account is indeed deactivated.

Different ways to deactivate or close a FASTag account

The steps mentioned above are a general overview and different providers may offer various methods for deactivation. These include both online and offline options, each with its own set of steps.

1. Online deactivation through a website or an app

This is the most convenient and widely used method to deactivate a FASTag account. Most FASTag service providers allow you to deactivate your account through their official website or mobile app. The process typically involves logging in, submitting a deactivation request, and confirming the request. The deactivation in most cases is instant or is done within a few minutes.

2. Deactivation via customer support

Another simple method to deactivate your FASTag account is to contact the customer care of your FASTag provider. You can call the customer service number of the service provider, request deactivation and follow their instructions. This method may require additional verification steps.

3. Visiting the nearest branch or office of the service provider

If you prefer a face-to-face interaction, visiting the nearest branch or office of your FASTag provider is a viable option. You can submit a deactivation request in person but you will have to ensure carrying all the necessary documents like your vehicle registration certificate (RC), your identity proof and FASTag account details.

4. Email or written request

Some FASTag providers allow deactivation requests to be sent via email or as a written application addressed to the customer service department. Ensure to include all the relevant details.

How to deactivate FASTag using a mobile payment app?

For FASTag accounts linked with mobile payment apps like Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe and other UPI-enabled apps, you can deactivate your account directly on these apps. Mobile payment apps offer integrated FASTag services, making it easy for users to manage their account. The steps involved are mostly similar for all apps and are listed below.

Step 1 - Open the payment app and log in to your account.

Step 2 - Navigate to the “FASTag” section under or search for “FASTag” to easily get to the section.

Step 3 - Select the vehicle number linked to your FASTag.

Step 4 - Click on the option to “Close/Deactivate FASTag”.

Step 5 - Confirm your request and provide any additional details that are requested. A confirmation text message and/or an email will be sent out to confirm the closure or deactivation of your FASTag account.

These steps provide a quick and easy way to deactivate FASTag using your preferred mobile payment app. However, if you prefer using a website, the next section will guide you through the steps involved in deactivating a FASTag from a website.

How to deactivate FASTag from a website?

Deactivating your FASTag account from the service provider’s official website is also a straightforward process. Most leading banks will offer this service on their websites and the steps involved are again, very similar.

Step 1 - Visit the associated bank’s official website and navigate to the FASTag portal and enter your login credentials.

Step 2 - Navigate to the section that allows you to manage your account. This may be denoted with “Manage Your FASTag”.

Step 3 - Select the vehicle linked to the FASTag account.

Step 4 - Click the “Close Account” or “Deactivate FASTag” option.

Step 5 - Confirm your request. You may be asked for an OPT sent to your registered mobile number or other confirmation details for verification. A confirmation text message and/or an email will be sent to you once the deactivation request is processed.

How to deactivate FASTag from different providers?

Different banks are associated with FASTag as service providers and have their own processes for deactivating FASTag accounts. Here’s a quick guide to deactivating a FASTag account through some of the major providers.

1. ICICI Bank FASTag

ICICI Bank offers both online and offline methods for deactivating FASTag. You can either use the ICICI Bank FASTag portal or a dedicated contact customer care number, 1800-210-0104. Alternatively, you can visit the nearest ICICI Bank branch to request deactivation.

2. HDFC Bank FASTag

To deactivate an HDFC Bank FASTag, you can either use the online method via the HDFC FASTag portal or call their dedicated customer care number at 1800-120-1243. Visiting an HDFC Bank branch is also an alternative option.

3. SBI FASTag

State Bank of India (SBI) allows FASTag deactivation through its website. Navigating to the FASTag section and following the deactivation process is easy enough. You can also call the SBI FASTag customer care number at 1800-110-018 or visit an SBI branch for in-person deactivation.

4. Axis Bank FASTag

Axis Bank FASTag users can deactivate their account via the Axis Bank FASTag portal or by contacting customer care at 1800-419-8585. Deactivation requests are also processed in person at Axis Bank branches.

5. Kotak Mahindra Bank FASTag

Kotak Mahindra Bank also has a dedicated FASTag portal through which a deactivation request can be made. Additionally,  calling customer care at 1800-3006-9090 (toll free) or 1860-266-6888 (local call charges applicable) can also get the job done. You can also visit a Kotak Mahindra Bank branch for assistance.

6. IDFC First Bank FASTag

IDFC First Bank FASTag deactivation can be carried out online via their portal or by contacting customer care at 1800-266-9970. The process can also be initiated by visiting an IDFC First Bank branch.

7. Paytm FASTag

To deactivate a Paytm FASTag, using its app is the most convenient method. If you prefer having an on-call assistance then reach out to the Paytm customer care at 0120-445-6456.

8. NHAI (IHMCL) FASTag

The National Highways Authority of India in conjunction with Indian Highway Management Company Limited - NHAI (IHMCL) issues FASTag that are bank-neutral. Thus, they can only be deactivated by contacting the customer care number, 1033.

Post-deactivation steps

After going through the necessary online or offline steps to successfully deactivate your FASTag account, there are a few steps you should take to verify that the process is fully complete.

1. Account closure status

Check your FASTag account on the app or website to ensure that it is indeed closed. Apps may provide a “Closed” status indicator against the vehicle number. Alternatively, login to your bank’s FASTag portal and check that the account status for the linked FASTag reflects the deactivation.

2. Confirm refund

If there was a leftover balance in your FASTag account at the time of deactivation, check with the service provider for a refund. The details would usually be mentioned in the deactivation/closure email that is sent at the time of requesting a deactivation. The refund process usually takes a few business days.

3. Remove the FASTag Sticker

Physically remove the FASTag sticker from your vehicle’s windshield to avoid misuse in the future. Be sure to remove residues before sticking a new FASTag on.

4. Keep records

It’s best practice to keep a track of the deactivation confirmation from the FASTag service provider for future reference. This can be useful in case of disputes later or while selling the vehicle and if the sticker hasn’t been physically removed.

Additional tips for deactivating FASTag

Consider the following additional tips to make your FASTag deactivation process smoother.

1. Deactivate before selling the vehicle

Since the physical FASTag is attached to your windshield and almost forgotten, it’s easy to overlook its deactivation and removal at the time of selling the vehicle. Always ensure that you deactivate the FASTag prior to selling the vehicle so that there’s no unauthorised use.

2. Keep your login details secure

FASTag accounts are linked to bank accounts and mobile payment apps so it’s vital to ensure that your FASTag account login credentials are kept secure. This prevents misuse of your account and fraudulent transactions.

3. Contact customer support for assistance

If you encounter any issues during the FASTag deactivation process, don’t hesitate to contact the customer support. They can offer guidance and resolve any problems you might encounter.

4. Plan for a replacement

Having a FASTag for toll transactions is mandatory, so if you’re deactivating your FASTag account to switch providers, plan ahead for the replacement. This would mean that the deactivation should immediately follow the procurement of a new FASTag. This will ensure that your travels requiring a FASTag, aren’t disrupted. As a last minute measure, keep an eye out for FASTag kiosks before a toll plaza, in case you’ve forgotten to get a new FASTag post deactivation.

Fastest way to close a FASTag account

Of all the various methods listed above, the fastest way to deactivate a FASTag account is through an online method. Using the provider’s mobile app or website reduces the process to mere minutes compared to visiting a branch or calling customer support. Online methods allow for instant submission of the deactivation request from wherever as long as you have access to an internet connection. Visiting a bank branch may involve standing in long queues, carrying physical identification documents, and the car’s registration certificate in some cases, making the process inconvenient and time consuming. Online methods for FASTag deactivation can be done at a time of your convenience as apps and websites allow for this process 24x7.

Conclusion

Deactivating a FASTag account is a straightforward process, but it requires you to follow the guidelines in place to ensure that it is done correctly. Whether you’re deactivating due to a vehicle sale, switching providers or no longer in need of the service, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you close your FASTag account easily. From online methods using mobile apps and websites to contacting the customer care, there are multiple ways to deactivate your FASTag account. Make sure to pay attention to the provider-specific steps and complete all post-deactivation procedures to avoid any future complications or misuse of your account.

FAQ

Q. What happens if I have an outstanding balance on my FASTag account when I close it?

The remaining balance is usually refunded to your linked bank account or payment wallet after the FASTag account is closed or deactivated.

Q. How to surrender and get a new FASTag?

To surrender an existing FASTag, deactivation is required. Follow the =steps to deactivate your current  FASTag, then apply for a new one via the same or a different provider.

Q. Is it possible to transfer a FASTag balance from one bank to another?

No, transferring FASTag balance from one bank to another is not possible. You can however, close the FASTag account in question, get a refund of the balance and apply for a new one.

Q. Can I have two FASTag accounts?

A vehicle can only have one FASTag account linked to it at a time. However, duplicacy may arise due to issuance errors and deactivating duplicate accounts will prevent misuse.