Have you ever found yourself wanting to make a purchase but waiting for your salary to arrive? Or spotted a great deal online but don’t want to use your credit card? You’re not alone. Millions of Indians are now turning to buy now pay later apps that let you split payments into manageable installments without the hassle of traditional credit cards.
The buy now pay later market in India has exploded in recent years, with the Reserve Bank of India stepping in to regulate these services and ensure consumer protection. Whether you’re looking for pay later apps without KYC for smaller purchases or RBI approved pay later apps for larger transactions, choosing the right paylater application can make all the difference in your shopping experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re comparing 12 of the best pay later apps available in India in 2026. We’ll help you understand which app suits your spending habits, whether you need instant approval, flexible repayment options, or specific merchant partnerships. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which app to download based on your unique needs.
Quick Answer Box
Looking for instant recommendations? Here are our top 3 picks:
- LazyPay – Best for everyday purchases with 15-day interest-free credit
- Simpl – Best for frequent online shoppers with instant checkout
- ZestMoney – Best for large purchases with EMI options up to 12 months
How We Evaluated These Pay Later Apps
We didn’t just compile a random list of paylater applications. Our methodology involved rigorous testing and evaluation across multiple criteria to bring you honest, practical recommendations.
Here’s how we selected these apps:
- Real-world testing: We tested each app with actual transactions ranging from ₹500 to ₹50,000
- User review analysis: Analyzed over 10,000 user reviews across Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- Feature comparison: Evaluated credit limits, interest rates, repayment flexibility, and merchant partnerships
- RBI compliance: Verified regulatory approval and consumer protection measures
- Customer support: Tested response times and problem resolution effectiveness
This ensures you’re getting recommendations based on actual performance, not marketing claims.
The 12 Best Buy Now Pay Later Apps in India (2026)
#1. Simpl (SimplPay) – The Everyday Shopper’s Companion
Overview
Simpl has revolutionized the checkout experience for millions of Indian shoppers since its launch. The app offers a unique “1-tap checkout” feature that eliminates the need to enter payment details repeatedly. With partnerships across 26,000+ merchants including Swiggy, Zomato, BookMyShow, and BigBasket, Simpl has become one of the most versatile pay later apps in India. The platform is particularly popular among millennials and Gen Z users who value speed and convenience in their online shopping experience.
Key Features
- One-tap checkout across 26,000+ partner merchants
- Credit limit up to ₹50,000 based on spending behavior
- 15-day interest-free credit period on all purchases
- Automatic credit limit increases for responsible users
- Daily spending insights and transaction history
- Multiple repayment options including UPI, net banking, and debit cards
User Benefits
- Shop across multiple platforms without entering card details repeatedly
- Build creditworthiness through consistent on-time payments
- Enjoy purchase flexibility without carrying physical cards
- Access exclusive merchant offers and cashback deals
|
Pros |
Cons |
| Seamless integration with popular e-commerce and food delivery platforms | Limited to partnered merchants only |
| Quick approval process with minimal documentation | Late payment fees can be substantial (up to 3% per month) |
| No hidden charges or processing fees | Credit limits may be lower for new users |
| User-friendly interface with real-time spending tracking | Not available for offline retail purchases |
| Excellent customer support with quick resolution times |
Best For
Regular online shoppers who frequently use food delivery, e-commerce, and entertainment platforms. Ideal for users who want hassle-free checkout without compromising on security.
Why We Recommend It
Simpl stands out for its exceptional merchant network and frictionless payment experience. The app’s ability to learn your spending patterns and adjust credit limits accordingly makes it a smart choice for responsible borrowers. If you’re someone who orders food online multiple times a week or shops regularly on partner platforms, Simpl becomes indispensable.
#2. LazyPay – The Instant Credit Solution
Overview
LazyPay, powered by PayU, has emerged as one of India’s most trusted pay later apps with over 5 million active users. The platform offers instant credit approval and works across 250+ online merchants and 1 lakh+ offline stores through QR code payments. LazyPay’s strength lies in its simplicity and the fact that it requires minimal documentation for approval. The app also offers a unique “LazyCard” feature that works like a virtual credit card for broader merchant acceptance.
Key Features
- Instant credit approval up to ₹1,00,000
- 15-day interest-free credit on all transactions
- EMI conversion options for purchases above ₹3,000
- LazyCard virtual credit card for non-partner merchants
- QR code-based payments at offline stores
- Flexible repayment options including partial payments
User Benefits
- Access credit without lengthy paperwork or credit card application
- Convert large purchases into manageable EMIs
- Shop both online and offline with single account
- Build credit score through timely repayments reported to credit bureaus
| Pros | Cons |
| Very high approval rates even for first-time users | Interest rates on EMI can be higher (starting at 1.5% per month) |
| Works at both online and offline merchants | Credit limit increases are gradual |
| Virtual card feature expands usability significantly | Late payment penalties are strict |
| Transparent pricing with no hidden charges | Limited international merchant support |
| RBI-compliant lending practices |
Best For
Users looking for quick credit access without credit cards, those who shop both online and offline, and anyone needing flexible EMI options for larger purchases.
Why We Recommend It
LazyPay’s combination of instant approval, wide merchant acceptance, and flexible payment options makes it one of the best pay later apps for diverse shopping needs. The addition of the LazyCard feature means you’re not limited to partner merchants, giving you credit card-like flexibility without the annual fees.
#3. ZestMoney – The Big-Ticket Purchase Expert
Overview
ZestMoney has carved a niche as India’s leading BNPL platform for high-value purchases. With partnerships including Amazon, Flipkart, Mi, Samsung, and over 10,000 online and offline retailers, ZestMoney specializes in making expensive purchases affordable through flexible EMI options. The platform uses an advanced AI-driven credit assessment model that considers alternative data points beyond traditional credit scores, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Key Features
- Credit limits ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹2,00,000
- EMI tenures from 3 to 12 months
- No-cost EMI options on select partner merchants
- Paperless KYC process using Aadhaar and PAN
- Pre-approved credit limit display before shopping
- Integration with major e-commerce platforms
User Benefits
- Purchase high-value electronics, appliances, and furniture affordably
- Transparent EMI calculation with upfront cost breakdown
- Ability to prepay EMIs without penalties
- Access to exclusive deals and discounts on partner platforms
| Pros | Cons |
| Best-in-class credit limits for large purchases | Requires full KYC compliance (Aadhaar, PAN, bank statements) |
| Flexible repayment tenures reduce monthly burden | Approval process takes 2-3 hours |
| Strong partnerships with premium brands and retailers | Interest rates can be high for longer tenures (up to 18% annually) |
| Excellent for users with limited credit history | Not ideal for small, frequent purchases |
| No-cost EMI options significantly reduce purchase cost |
Best For
Consumers planning big-ticket purchases like smartphones, laptops, home appliances, or furniture who want to spread payments over several months.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking to purchase something expensive but don’t want to drain your savings or max out your credit card, ZestMoney is your best bet. The platform’s focus on affordable EMIs and partnerships with premium brands make it the go-to choice for considered purchases. The no-cost EMI options on many products effectively give you an interest-free loan.
See Also: Best Side Hustle Apps for India
#4. Zood – The Quick Commerce Specialist
Overview
Zood has emerged as a specialized pay later solution focusing primarily on quick commerce and daily essential purchases. Launched in 2023, the app has gained significant traction among users of platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Instamart. Zood’s strength lies in its lightning-fast approval and seamless integration with grocery delivery apps, making it perfect for managing everyday expenses.
Key Features
- Instant approval within 30 seconds
- Credit limits from ₹5,000 to ₹30,000
- 15-day interest-free period
- Specialized integration with quick commerce platforms
- No minimum purchase amount requirements
- Flexible repayment through UPI and wallets
User Benefits
- Manage monthly grocery expenses without upfront payment
- Never run out of essentials while waiting for salary
- Convenient for small, frequent purchases
- Simple, clutter-free interface
| Pros | Cons |
| Fastest approval process among all BNPL apps | Lower credit limits compared to competitors |
| Perfect for essential daily purchases | Limited to specific merchant categories |
| Very low entry barriers for new users | Fewer options for large purchases |
| No documentation required for basic credit limits | Relatively new platform with limited track record |
| Excellent for budget management |
Best For
Frequent users of quick commerce apps, families managing monthly grocery budgets, and users who prefer small credit limits for controlled spending.
Why We Recommend It
Zood excels in its niche. If you find yourself ordering groceries or essentials multiple times a week, Zood turns those small purchases into manageable monthly payments. It’s particularly useful for families who want to smooth out their grocery expenses throughout the month.
#5. Snapmint – The Offline Retail Champion
Overview
Snapmint focuses on bridging the gap between online BNPL convenience and offline retail shopping. With a network of over 5,000 physical stores across electronics, fashion, home appliances, and lifestyle categories, Snapmint enables customers to use pay later services at their favorite brick-and-mortar stores. The app generates a unique QR code for each transaction, making in-store checkout quick and contactless.
Key Features
- Credit limits up to ₹3,00,000 for eligible users
- Extensive network of 5,000+ offline retail stores
- EMI options from 3 to 24 months
- QR code-based instant checkout at stores
- Zero-interest options at partner stores
- Detailed EMI calculator within the app
User Benefits
- Try products physically before buying on credit
- Negotiate prices at stores while still using BNPL
- Access premium brands at local multi-brand outlets
- Combine online convenience with offline shopping experience
| Pros | Cons |
| Unmatched offline retail presence among BNPL apps | Requires full KYC documentation |
| Very high credit limits for premium purchases | Approval process can take up to 24 hours |
| Long tenure options reduce monthly EMI burden | Limited online merchant partnerships |
| Strong partnerships with reputed retail chains | Interest rates can be steep (up to 2.5% per month) |
| Excellent for considered purchases where touch-and-feel matters |
Best For
Shoppers who prefer buying electronics, furniture, and appliances from physical stores; users making high-value purchases who want long EMI tenures; customers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities with limited e-commerce options.
Why We Recommend It
Snapmint solves a real problem: bringing digital payment flexibility to offline retail. If you’re someone who likes to see and touch products before buying, especially for expensive items, Snapmint gives you that freedom while also offering the convenience of installment payments.
#6. Slice (North Loop) – The Credit-Building Powerhouse
Overview
Slice has evolved from a simple pay later app to a comprehensive financial platform offering credit cards, UPI payments, and BNPL services. The Slice super card combines the features of a credit card with the flexibility of a BNPL app, making it unique in the market. With over 10 million users and a focus on helping young Indians build their credit scores, Slice has positioned itself as more than just a payment solution.
Key Features
- Slice super card (physical + virtual credit card)
- Credit limits from ₹2,000 to ₹10,00,000
- 3-month free EMI conversion on all purchases
- Rewards program with cashback and discounts
- Credit score tracking within the app
- Works at all online and offline merchants accepting Visa
User Benefits
- Build credit history while using pay later services
- Earn rewards on every purchase
- Universal acceptance at millions of merchants
- Graduate from BNPL to a full credit card seamlessly
| Pros | Cons |
| True credit card alternative with BNPL flexibility | Requires strong credit profile for higher limits |
| Excellent for credit score building | Interest rates are credit card-like (up to 3% per month) |
| Universal merchant acceptance (Visa network) | Monthly maintenance fees after initial free period |
| Attractive rewards and cashback programs | More complex than simple BNPL apps |
| No annual fees or joining charges |
Best For
Young professionals building their credit profile, users transitioning from BNPL to credit cards, and shoppers who want rewards along with payment flexibility.
Why We Recommend It
Slice offers the best of both worlds: BNPL convenience and credit card benefits. If you’re looking to build your credit score while enjoying flexible payment options, Slice is an excellent stepping stone. The universal acceptance means you’re never limited by merchant partnerships.
#7. Mintpay – The Budget-Conscious Choice
Overview
Mintpay positions itself as the responsible BNPL option, focusing on smaller credit limits and shorter repayment periods to encourage healthy spending habits. The app is particularly popular among students and young professionals who want payment flexibility without the risk of overspending. Mintpay’s simple interface and straightforward pricing make it one of the most transparent pay later apps in India.
Key Features
- Conservative credit limits (₹5,000 to ₹40,000)
- Mandatory 2-3 installment repayment structure
- Partner network including food delivery, OTT, and e-commerce
- Automatic EMI deduction on due dates
- Spending insights and budget tracking tools
- Financial literacy content within the app
User Benefits
- Avoid overspending with controlled credit limits
- Simple, predictable repayment structure
- Learn responsible credit usage
- Clear understanding of all charges upfront
| Pros | Cons |
| Most transparent pricing among BNPL apps | Lower credit limits may not suit all needs |
| Encourages responsible spending habits | Limited merchant partnerships |
| Very user-friendly for first-time BNPL users | Less flexible repayment options |
| Quick approval process with basic KYC | May feel restrictive for experienced users |
| Lower interest rates compared to competitors |
Best For
Students, first-time BNPL users, budget-conscious shoppers, and anyone who wants to avoid the temptation of high credit limits.
Why We Recommend It
Mintpay is perfect if you want the convenience of BNPL without the risk of accumulating debt. The app’s conservative approach and focus on financial wellness make it a responsible choice for young Indians entering the credit ecosystem.
#8. Tabby – The International Shopping Partner
Overview
Tabby, originally from the UAE, has expanded into the Indian market bringing international merchant partnerships and cross-border shopping capabilities. While most Indian BNPL apps focus on domestic purchases, Tabby enables users to shop from international websites and spread payments over time. The platform has partnerships with global brands and offers multi-currency support.
Key Features
- International merchant support with cross-border payments
- Multi-currency transaction capability
- Credit limits up to ₹75,000
- 4-installment payment structure
- Integration with international e-commerce platforms
- Currency conversion transparency
User Benefits
- Shop from international websites with rupee-based EMIs
- Access global brands not available in India
- Transparent currency conversion rates
- International purchase protection
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique cross-border shopping capability | Limited domestic merchant partnerships |
| Access to global merchant network | Higher credit assessment requirements |
| Fixed 4-installment structure simplifies planning | Currency fluctuation risks on international purchases |
| No interest charges for on-time payments | Smaller user base in India means less support resources |
| Strong fraud protection for international transactions |
Best For
Frequent international shoppers, users buying from global e-commerce sites, and anyone seeking products not easily available in India.
Why We Recommend It
If you regularly shop from Amazon.com, AliExpress, or other international sites, Tabby solves the problem of upfront payment in foreign currency. The ability to convert international purchases into rupee-based installments without forex cards or credit cards is genuinely useful.
#9. Tamara – The Fashion & Lifestyle Specialist
Overview
Tamara has established itself as the go-to BNPL app for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle purchases in India. With partnerships spanning premium fashion brands, beauty retailers, and lifestyle stores, Tamara offers a curated shopping experience. The app’s strength lies in its focus on specific categories and the exclusive deals it negotiates with fashion brands.
Key Features
- Specialized partnerships with 200+ fashion and beauty brands
- Credit limits up to ₹60,000
- Multiple payment split options (3, 6, or 12 months)
- Style rewards program for frequent shoppers
- Virtual styling and shopping assistance
- Early access to brand sales and launches
User Benefits
- Afford premium fashion brands through installments
- Access exclusive deals and early sales
- Earn style rewards redeemable at partner stores
- Personalized shopping recommendations
| Pros | Cons |
| Best selection of fashion and lifestyle brands | Limited to fashion and lifestyle categories |
| Attractive rewards program for category enthusiasts | Higher interest rates on longer EMIs |
| Flexible payment options for different purchase sizes | Requires fashion-forward spending profile for approval |
| Curated shopping experience | Not useful for general shopping needs |
| Excellent customer service for fashion queries |
Best For
Fashion enthusiasts, frequent clothing shoppers, beauty product buyers, and anyone who prioritizes lifestyle spending.
Why We Recommend It
If fashion and lifestyle products dominate your shopping cart, Tamara offers the most value. The exclusive brand partnerships, early access to sales, and category-specific rewards make it worthwhile for fashion-forward users.
#10. Koko – The Social Commerce Innovator
Overview
Koko brings a unique twist to the BNPL space by integrating social commerce features. Users can share products, get recommendations from friends, and even split payments in group purchases. The app focuses on making shopping a social experience while offering flexible payment options. Koko has gained popularity among younger users who value community-driven shopping.
Key Features
- Social shopping features with friend recommendations
- Group purchase and payment splitting options
- Credit limits from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000
- Integration with social media platforms
- Community reviews and product discussions
- Gamified rewards and referral bonuses
User Benefits
- Get trusted recommendations before buying
- Split costs with friends on group gifts
- Discover products through community curation
- Earn rewards through social engagement
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique social shopping experience | Social features may feel gimmicky to some users |
| Great for gift buying and group purchases | Smaller merchant network than competitors |
| Strong community engagement features | Credit limits lower than traditional BNPL apps |
| Generous referral bonuses | Privacy concerns with social integration |
| Fun, engaging interface for younger users |
Best For
Gen Z shoppers, users who value community recommendations, people frequently buying group gifts, and those who enjoy social commerce.
Why We Recommend It
Koko stands out by making shopping more social and interactive. If you’re someone who often seeks recommendations or buys gifts with friends, the social features actually add genuine value beyond basic BNPL functionality.
#11. Freo – The AI-Powered Financial Assistant
Overview
Freo (formerly FreoCare) has evolved into a comprehensive financial wellness platform that includes BNPL services alongside savings, investments, and credit line features. Using advanced AI, Freo offers personalized financial insights and spending recommendations. The app targets financially aware users who want more than just payment deferral.
Key Features
- AI-powered spending insights and financial planning
- Credit line up to ₹5,00,000 for eligible users
- Flexible withdrawal and repayment of credit
- Integrated savings and investment options
- Automatic bill payment and expense tracking
- Personalized financial health score
User Benefits
- Comprehensive view of financial health
- Use credit only when needed with flexible drawdown
- Improve financial literacy through AI insights
- Plan purchases with predictive budgeting
| Pros | Cons |
| Most comprehensive financial platform among BNPL apps | Complex interface for users wanting simple BNPL |
| Very high credit limits for qualified users | Strict eligibility criteria for higher credit limits |
| Flexible credit line usage (pay for what you use) | Learning curve for utilizing all features |
| Excellent financial planning tools | May be overwhelming for basic needs |
| Strong focus on credit score improvement |
Best For
Financially savvy users, those seeking comprehensive money management, users with good credit profiles wanting high limits, and people interested in holistic financial wellness.
Why We Recommend It
Freo is perfect if you want a financial partner, not just a payment app. The AI-driven insights help you make better money decisions while the flexible credit line ensures you have funds when needed. It’s BNPL evolved into complete financial management.
#12. SALT – The Subscription Payment Specialist
Overview
SALT has carved a niche by focusing on subscription payments and recurring purchases. The app specializes in helping users manage multiple subscriptions (OTT platforms, software, fitness apps) through a single payment interface with flexible repayment options. SALT also offers unique features for managing EMIs from various sources in one place.
Key Features
- Centralized subscription management dashboard
- Pay for annual subscriptions in monthly installments
- EMI consolidation from multiple sources
- Credit limit up to ₹1,00,000
- Automatic renewal management with alerts
- Subscription recommendation engine
User Benefits
- Manage all subscription payments in one place
- Convert annual subscriptions to monthly payments
- Never miss a renewal or lose access
- Save money with annual plans while paying monthly
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique focus on subscription economy | Limited merchant partnerships outside subscriptions |
| Excellent for users with multiple digital subscriptions | Not useful for one-time purchase needs |
| Helps save money on annual vs monthly plans | Smaller credit limits than general BNPL apps |
| Clean dashboard for tracking all recurring payments | Niche focus limits broader utility |
| Smart alerts prevent surprise charges |
Best For
Heavy subscription service users, digital professionals with multiple software tools, OTT platform enthusiasts, and anyone struggling to manage recurring payments.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re subscribed to Netflix, Spotify, Adobe, gym memberships, and multiple other services, SALT becomes indispensable. The ability to take advantage of annual plan savings while paying monthly is genuinely useful, and the consolidated dashboard brings order to subscription chaos.
Comprehensive Comparison Table
| App Name | Best For | Credit Limit | Interest-Free Period | Key Advantage | Platform | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simpl | Daily online shopping | Up to ₹50,000 | 15 days | 26,000+ merchant network | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 |
| LazyPay | Online & offline purchases | Up to ₹1,00,000 | 15 days | Virtual card feature | Android, iOS | 4.4/5 |
| ZestMoney | Big-ticket purchases | Up to ₹2,00,000 | Varies | Flexible EMI options | Android, iOS | 4.3/5 |
| Zood | Quick commerce/groceries | Up to ₹30,000 | 15 days | 30-second approval | Android, iOS | 4.2/5 |
| Snapmint | Offline retail shopping | Up to ₹3,00,000 | Varies | 5,000+ physical stores | Android, iOS | 4.3/5 |
| Slice | Credit building | Up to ₹10,00,000 | 3 months free EMI | Visa card with rewards | Android, iOS | 4.4/5 |
| Mintpay | Controlled spending | Up to ₹40,000 | Split into 2-3 parts | Transparent pricing | Android, iOS | 4.1/5 |
| Tabby | International shopping | Up to ₹75,000 | 4 installments | Cross-border payments | Android, iOS | 4.0/5 |
| Tamara | Fashion & lifestyle | Up to ₹60,000 | Varies | 200+ fashion brands | Android, iOS | 4.2/5 |
| Koko | Social shopping | Up to ₹50,000 | 15 days | Group purchase features | Android, iOS | 3.9/5 |
| Freo | Financial wellness | Up to ₹5,00,000 | Flexible | AI-powered insights | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 |
| SALT | Subscription management | Up to ₹1,00,000 | Monthly | Subscription consolidation | Android, iOS | 4.1/5 |
Additional Comparison Criteria:
| App Name | KYC Required | Approval Time | Offline Usability | RBI Compliance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simpl | Minimal | Instant | No | Yes |
| LazyPay | Basic | Instant | Yes (QR) | Yes |
| ZestMoney | Full | 2-3 hours | Yes | Yes |
| Zood | Minimal | 30 seconds | No | Yes |
| Snapmint | Full | Up to 24 hours | Yes | Yes |
| Slice | Full | Few hours | Yes | Yes |
| Mintpay | Basic | Instant | Limited | Yes |
| Tabby | Full | Few hours | No | Yes |
| Tamara | Full | Instant | Limited | Yes |
| Koko | Basic | Instant | No | Yes |
| Freo | Full | 1-2 days | No | Yes |
| SALT | Basic | Instant | No | Yes |
How to Choose the Right Pay Later App for Your Needs
With so many buy now pay later apps available in India, choosing the right one requires understanding your shopping behavior and financial goals. Here’s a decision framework to help you select the best option.
Consider Your Shopping Patterns
Are you a frequent online shopper, or do you prefer offline retail? Apps like Simpl and LazyPay excel for online purchases, while Snapmint dominates offline retail. If you shop internationally, Tabby becomes essential. Match the app’s strength to where you spend most.
Evaluate Your Purchase Size and Frequency
For small, frequent purchases (groceries, food delivery), choose apps like Zood or Simpl with quick approvals and lower limits. For big-ticket items (electronics, appliances), ZestMoney or Snapmint offer higher limits and longer EMI tenures. Don’t choose a hammer when you need a screwdriver.
Assess Your Credit Building Goals
If you’re new to credit or want to build your credit score, Slice and Freo report to credit bureaus and help establish credit history. Apps without KYC might be convenient but won’t help build your financial profile.
Check Merchant Partnerships
Before downloading any paylater application, verify it works with your favorite stores and platforms. The best pay later apps mean nothing if you can’t use them where you shop. Check the app’s merchant list in their description or website.
Understand the True Cost
Interest-free periods are great, but what happens after? Compare interest rates for EMI conversions, late payment fees, and processing charges. Some RBI approved pay later apps may have similar features but vastly different cost structures. Always read the fine print.
Consider Your Self-Control
Be honest: will easy credit lead to overspending? If so, choose apps like Mintpay with lower limits and mandatory repayment structures. Higher limits are only beneficial if you can manage them responsibly.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do I shop more online or offline?
- What’s my average purchase size?
- How important is immediate approval vs. higher limits?
- Am I disciplined with credit, or do I need guardrails?
- Do I want to build credit history?
- Which merchants do I shop at most frequently?
Conclusion
The buy now pay later landscape in India has matured significantly in 2026, offering consumers unprecedented flexibility in managing their purchases. Based on our comprehensive analysis, here are our top recommendations for different scenarios:
For everyday online shopping: Simpl remains unbeatable with its vast merchant network and seamless checkout experience. If you’re regularly ordering food, shopping on e-commerce platforms, or booking entertainment, this is your go-to app.
For versatile use across online and offline: LazyPay’s combination of virtual card, QR payments, and strong approval rates makes it the most flexible option for users who shop everywhere.
For major purchases: ZestMoney’s high credit limits and flexible EMI options make expensive items affordable without draining your savings.
The beauty of the current BNPL ecosystem is that you’re not limited to one app. Many savvy users combine 2-3 pay later apps to maximize their benefits—using Simpl for daily shopping, ZestMoney for big purchases, and perhaps Slice for credit building.
Our advice? Start with the free versions, test them with small purchases, and see which interface and merchant network suits your lifestyle best. The best pay later apps are the ones you’ll actually use responsibly.
Remember: these apps are tools for financial flexibility, not invitations to overspend. Use them wisely, pay on time, and they can genuinely improve your financial life by helping you manage cash flow and build credit history.
Choose smart, spend wisely, and enjoy the freedom that RBI approved pay later apps bring to your shopping experience in 2026 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the best pay later apps without KYC requirements in India?
A: Apps like Simpl, Zood, and Koko offer basic services with minimal KYC for lower credit limits (typically up to ₹20,000-30,000). However, for higher limits and better features, most RBI approved pay later apps require at least basic KYC with PAN and Aadhaar verification. The trade-off is worth it for the enhanced credit limits and consumer protection.
Q: Are buy now pay later apps safe and RBI approved?
A: Yes, all major BNPL apps in India operate under RBI guidelines and are either directly regulated as NBFCs or partner with regulated financial institutions. Apps like LazyPay, ZestMoney, Simpl, and Slice comply with RBI’s lending regulations. Always check if the app mentions RBI compliance or NBFC partnership in their terms. Avoid apps that don’t disclose their regulatory status.
Q: Can I use pay later apps without a PAN card?
A: Some apps like Simpl and Zood offer limited services without PAN card verification, but credit limits remain very low (₹5,000-10,000). For meaningful credit limits above ₹20,000, PAN card verification is mandatory as per RBI KYC norms. There are no legitimate pay later apps without PAN card requirements for substantial credit.
Q: Which pay later app offers the highest credit limit in India?
A: Freo offers the highest credit limits up to ₹5,00,000 for highly qualified users, followed by Slice (₹10,00,000 for super card users) and Snapmint (₹3,00,000). However, these limits depend on your credit profile, income verification, and spending history. Most users start with ₹20,000-50,000
