A Guide to E-Verification of Your Income Tax Return

Posted on by onevoicetech

E-verification of Income Tax Returns (ITR) is a crucial step that completes the tax filing process. It is a quick, efficient, and secure method to authenticate your ITR without the need for physical paperwork. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the e-verification process, detailing the methods available and the steps to follow for a seamless experience.

Understanding E-Verification

E-verification is the electronic confirmation of your filed ITR. It eliminates the need to send a physical copy of the ITR-V (Verification Form) to the Centralized Processing Center (CPC) in Bangalore. E-verification ensures that your return is processed faster and any due refunds are issued promptly.

Why E-Verification is Important

E-verification serves as proof that you have filed your return. Without this step, your ITR remains incomplete, and the tax department will not process your return or issue refunds. It is essential to complete e-verification within 120 days of filing your return to avoid any complications or penalties.

Methods of E-Verification

There are several methods to e-verify your income tax filing, each offering convenience and security. Here’s a look at the different options available:

1. Aadhaar OTP

One of the simplest methods to e-verify your ITR is through Aadhaar OTP. For this method, you must link your Aadhaar number with your PAN and have a registered mobile number with Aadhaar.

Steps:

  1. Log in to the income tax e-filing portal.
  2. Select the ‘My Account’ tab and click on ‘e-Verify Return.’
  3. Choose ‘I would like to generate Aadhaar OTP.’
  4. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
  5. Your ITR will be successfully e-verified.

2. Net Banking

Net banking is another convenient method for e-verification. This method requires you to have an active net banking account with your bank.

Steps:

  1. Log in to your net banking account.
  2. Navigate to the ‘Income Tax e-Filing’ section.
  3. Select ‘e-Verify’ and you will be redirected to the income tax e-filing portal.
  4. Your ITR will be automatically e-verified.

3. Bank Account Validation

E-verification can also be done through bank account validation. This method requires pre-validation of your bank account on the e-filing portal.

Steps:

  1. Log in to the income tax e-filing portal.
  2. Go to ‘Profile Settings’ and select ‘Prevalidate Your Bank Account.’
  3. Enter the required bank account details and submit.
  4. Once pre-validated, select ‘e-Verify Return’ and choose ‘Through Bank Account.’
  5. An EVC (Electronic Verification Code) will be sent to your registered mobile number.
  6. Enter the EVC on the portal to complete the e-verification.

4. Demat Account

If you have a Demat account, you can use it for e-verification. This method also requires pre-validation of your Demat account.

Steps:

  1. Log in to the income tax e-filing portal.
  2. Go to ‘Profile Settings’ and select ‘Prevalidate Your Demat Account.’
  3. Enter the required Demat account details and submit.
  4. Once pre-validated, select ‘e-Verify Return’ and choose ‘Through Demat Account.’
  5. An EVC will be sent to your registered mobile number.
  6. Enter the EVC on the portal to complete the e-verification.

5. ATM

Some banks offer the option to generate an EVC through ATMs. This method is useful if you do not have internet access.

Steps:

  1. Visit an ATM of your bank.
  2. Insert your ATM card and enter your PIN.
  3. Select the ‘Generate EVC for Income Tax Filing’ option.
  4. An EVC will be sent to your registered mobile number.
  5. Log in to the income tax e-filing portal and select ‘e-Verify Return.’
  6. Choose ‘Through EVC’ and enter the code received.

6. Income Tax Department’s E-Filing Website

The income tax department’s e-filing website itself offers an option to generate EVC. This method is particularly useful for those who do not have Aadhaar or access to net banking.

Steps:

  1. Log in to the income tax e-filing portal.
  2. Select ‘My Account’ and click on ‘Generate EVC.’
  3. Choose the delivery method (email, SMS).
  4. An EVC will be sent to your registered email or mobile number.
  5. Enter the EVC on the portal to complete the e-verification.

Steps to E-Verify Your ITR

Regardless of the method chosen, the following steps outline the general process to e-verify your ITR:

  1. Log in to the E-Filing Portal: Visit the income tax e-filing portal and log in with your credentials (User ID, password, and date of birth/incorporation).
  2. Access the E-Verify Option: Navigate to the ‘My Account’ tab and select ‘e-Verify Return.’
  3. Choose Your Preferred Method: Select one of the e-verification methods mentioned above.
  4. Generate and Enter OTP/EVC: Follow the prompts to generate the OTP/EVC and enter it in the designated field.
  5. Confirmation: Upon successful verification, a confirmation message will be displayed, and an acknowledgment will be sent to your registered email.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

1. Incorrect Details

Ensure that your personal details such as PAN, Aadhaar number, and mobile number are correctly entered and up-to-date. Any discrepancies can hinder the e-verification process.

2. Delayed OTP/EVC

If you do not receive the OTP/EVC promptly, check your network connection and ensure that your mobile number/email is correctly registered. If the issue persists, try an alternative e-verification method.

3. Pre-Validation Issues

For methods requiring pre-validation (bank or Demat account), ensure that the details entered during pre-validation are accurate. Contact your bank or depository participant if you encounter issues.

4. Browser Compatibility

Sometimes, browser issues can affect the e-filing portal’s performance. Ensure you are using an updated browser and clear cache/cookies if necessary.

Benefits of E-Verification

E-verification offers several benefits, including:

  • Speed: Faster processing of returns and issuance of refunds.
  • Convenience: No need to send physical documents to CPC.
  • Security: Reduces the risk of documents being lost or delayed.
  • Efficiency: Simplifies the filing process with fewer errors.

Conclusion

E-verification of your Income Tax Return is an essential step that ensures your return is complete and ready for processing. By understanding the various methods and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can e-verify your ITR seamlessly. Whether you choose Aadhaar OTP, net banking, bank account validation, Demat account, ATM, or the e-filing website, each method offers convenience and security, making the process efficient and hassle-free. Complete your e-verification promptly to enjoy the benefits of faster refunds and a smoother tax filing experience.

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