E-verification is an important step in the process of filing your Income Tax Return (ITR). After successfully submitting your tax return online, e-verifying your return ensures that your ITR is accepted by the Income Tax Department, and the process is completed without any hassle.
There are multiple methods available for e-verification, and two of the most commonly used methods are:
E-verification through Aadhaar OTP
E-verification using Electronic Verification Code (EVC)
In this blog, we will explain both these methods in detail, so you can choose the most convenient way to e-verify your ITR.
What is E-Verification?
E-verification is a process by which you can confirm the authenticity of your filed Income Tax Return without physically signing and mailing the ITR-V (acknowledgment). Once your tax return is successfully filed, you must e-verify it for the Income Tax Department to process your return.
If you do not e-verify your return, your ITR will be considered as not filed. Therefore, e-verification is a crucial step that should not be skipped.
E-Verification Through Aadhaar OTP
The Aadhaar OTP method is one of the simplest and quickest ways to e-verify your Income Tax Return (ITR). This method is available for those individuals who have linked their Aadhaar number with their PAN (Permanent Account Number) and their mobile number is registered with Aadhaar.
Steps to E-Verify ITR Using Aadhaar OTP
File Your Income Tax Return (ITR):
First, you need to file your ITR online through the Income Tax Department's e-filing portal.
After filling in all the necessary details and submitting your return, you will be prompted to proceed with the e-verification process.
Choose the Aadhaar OTP Option:
On the e-verification page, you will see multiple options for verifying your return.
Select the “Aadhaar OTP” option to proceed with the Aadhaar-based verification method.
Enter Your Aadhaar Number:
You will be asked to enter your Aadhaar number (the 12-digit unique identification number).
Ensure that the Aadhaar number you enter matches the one registered with the Income Tax Department and your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar.
Receive OTP on Your Registered Mobile Number:
Once you enter your Aadhaar number, an OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your mobile number that is linked with your Aadhaar.
Check your phone for the OTP, which will be a 6-digit code.
Enter the OTP:
Enter the OTP in the required field on the e-filing portal.
Complete the Verification:
After entering the OTP correctly, click the “Submit” button.
If the OTP is valid and matches the one sent to your registered mobile number, your return will be e-verified, and the status will be updated as “Successfully E-Verified”.
Download the Acknowledgment:
Once the verification is successful, you will be able to download the acknowledgment of your e-verified tax return, which is your ITR-V (Income Tax Return Verification Form).
You will also receive an email and SMS from the Income Tax Department confirming the successful e-verification.
Advantages of Using Aadhaar OTP for E-Verification
Simple and Quick: The Aadhaar OTP method is very simple and fast, requiring just a few clicks to complete the verification.
No Physical Signature: You don’t need to send any physical documents or signatures, making it a paperless process.
Instant Confirmation: After submitting the OTP, your return gets verified immediately, and you receive confirmation on your mobile phone and email.
E-Verification Using Electronic Verification Code (EVC)
If you are unable to use the Aadhaar OTP method, you can verify your return through an Electronic Verification Code (EVC). EVC is another convenient way to e-verify your ITR, which can be generated through several channels, including your Net Banking, Bank Account (pre-approved for EVC generation), or via Income Tax e-filing portal.
Steps to E-Verify ITR Using EVC
File Your Income Tax Return (ITR):
Similar to the Aadhaar OTP method, begin by filing your ITR online.
Choose EVC Option:
On the e-verification page, select the “EVC” option.
Generate EVC:
Using Net Banking:
Log in to your Net Banking account (the one associated with your PAN).
Go to the Tax-related services section and select Generate EVC.
The bank will generate the EVC, which will be sent to your registered mobile number.
Using Bank Account:
If your bank is pre-approved by the Income Tax Department for generating EVC, you can generate it directly through the Income Tax e-filing portal.
Using Income Tax Department's e-filing portal:
You can opt to generate the EVC through the e-filing portal, provided your mobile number is registered with your PAN and the portal recognizes it.
Enter the EVC:
Once you receive the EVC, go back to the Income Tax portal and enter the 6-digit code in the provided field.
Submit for E-Verification:
Click the Submit button after entering the EVC. If the EVC is valid, your ITR will be successfully e-verified.
Download Acknowledgment:
You will then be able to download the ITR-V acknowledgment and will receive an email and SMS confirmation from the Income Tax Department.
Advantages of EVC for E-Verification
Alternative to Aadhaar OTP: This method is useful for individuals who do not have their Aadhaar linked with their PAN or prefer not to use the Aadhaar OTP option.
Convenient for Bank Account Holders: If you have access to Net Banking or pre-approved bank accounts, you can generate an EVC instantly.
Multiple Options: There are multiple ways to generate the EVC, so you can choose the one most convenient for you.
Other Methods of E-Verification (Not Recommended for Most Users)
There are other less commonly used methods for e-verification, which are typically more time-consuming and may require manual intervention:
E-verification using Bank ATM: Some banks provide the option to generate an EVC through their ATM machines.
Sending ITR-V to CPC, Bangalore: If you prefer not to e-verify using any of the digital methods, you can print the ITR-V form and send it to the Income Tax Department’s Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) in Bangalore. This process can take several weeks, and it’s best to avoid this unless absolutely necessary.
Conclusion
E-verifying your Income Tax Return is a crucial step in the filing process. Using Aadhaar OTP is the simplest and quickest method, especially for those who have their Aadhaar linked with their PAN. Alternatively, EVC is an effective backup for those who cannot use Aadhaar OTP. Both these methods are secure, paperless, and provide instant confirmation.
Once you have successfully e-verified your ITR, your return will be processed without delay, ensuring you meet all your tax obligations promptly. If you’re facing any issues with e-verification or are unsure of the process, don’t hesitate to consult a tax professional or advisor.
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