With the increasing strides of Digital India, several processes related to Income Tax have become easier than before. While filing Income Tax Returns is essential for taxpayers, there's another crucial step that shouldn't be overlooked: e-verification. If you've filed your return but haven't e-verified it within 30 days, it won't be recorded in the department's records.
Previously, there was a 120-day window for return verification, but this has now been reduced to just 30 days. This rule has been in effect since August 1, 2022. This means you must electronically verify your ITR within 30 days of filing it.
What is E-Verification?
E-verification, or electronic verification, is the process through which taxpayers confirm their filed returns online. It eliminates the need to post or physically submit any documents. The process is entirely online and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Its biggest advantage is that it saves time and avoids hassles. Taxpayers simply need to ensure they have a registered mobile number and email ID that are linked to their Aadhaar and PAN cards.
Key Points for E-Verification
- Verification is mandatory within 30 days of filing the return
- Returns without verification will be considered invalid
- The process is completely online
- No need to send hard copies of any documents
- A transaction ID is received immediately upon completing verification
E-Verification Methods: Multiple Options, Easy Process
The Income Tax Department has provided several options for taxpayers to e-verify, so everyone can complete the process according to their convenience.
E-Verification via Aadhaar OTP
This method is considered the most common and easiest. It requires that your Aadhaar number be linked to your PAN card and that the mobile number associated with your Aadhaar is active.
- Log in to the Income Tax Portal
- Select the "E-verify Return" option
- Choose Aadhaar OTP as the option
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number
- Verification will be complete as soon as the OTP is entered
Verification via Net Banking
If your bank account is with a bank that is registered with the Income Tax Portal under the net banking facility, you can also verify using this method.
- Log in to your bank's net banking website
- Go to the "Income Tax E-filing" section
- From there, go directly to the Income Tax Portal
- Select the "E-verify Return" option
- Follow the instructions and complete the verification
Via EVC (Electronic Verification Code)
This method is also very simple, and you don't need any app or net banking for it.
- EVC is a code that is sent to your registered mobile number and email ID
- After entering this code, verification is completed immediately
- The use of EVC is only possible for users whose bank account or Demat account is linked to the PAN card
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
This option is for taxpayers whose returns are audited or who are obligated to do so. With this option, you need to upload your digital signature.
The Complete E-Verification Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- First, go to the Income Tax Department website incometax.gov.in
- Log in there with your PAN number and password
- Click on the "E-file" tab
- Go to "Income Tax Returns" there and select "E-verify Return"
- Now you have to fill in the PAN, Assessment Year, and Acknowledgment Number
- After this, several options for verification will appear: Aadhaar OTP, Net Banking, EVC, or DSC
- Choose the option according to your convenience
- If you have chosen Aadhaar OTP, the OTP will come on your mobile
- As soon as you enter the OTP, the transaction ID and confirmation message will appear on the screen
- Confirmation of successful verification will also be received via email
What to do if 30 Days Have Passed?
If for some reason you have not verified within 30 days, you can file a "Condonation of Delay Request". For this, you will have to fill out an application on the Income Tax Portal, in which you have to state the reason for the delay. The department will validate the return only after approving this application.
Updated Mobile and Email are Essential
To make the e-verification process easier, it is essential that you have an active mobile number and email ID that are registered on the Income Tax Portal. If these are not updated, there may be difficulty in receiving OTP or EVC.
