How to E-Verify Income Tax Return Online Using Aadhaar OTP or EVC
After uploading an Income Tax Return (ITR), the taxpayer must verify it for the return to be treated as duly filed. Electronic verification is a paperless method using Aadhaar OTP, an Electronic Verification Code (EVC), eligible net banking or a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), depending on the taxpayer and portal options.
What is ITR e-verification?
E-verification confirms that the taxpayer or authorised signatory has authenticated an electronically submitted return. An EVC is an electronic verification code generated through an eligible pre-validated bank or demat account, net banking or supported bank ATM. Aadhaar OTP is a separate verification option that requires an eligible PAN-Aadhaar linkage and access to the mobile number registered with Aadhaar.
Legal provisions and verification deadline
For returns governed by the Income-tax Act, 1961, section 139 concerns furnishing returns of income, and section 140 specifies who must verify a return. Rule 12 of the Income-tax Rules, 1962 prescribes return forms and verification procedures. For returns governed by the Income-tax Act, 2025 and the rules and notifications applicable to the relevant tax year, follow the provisions and instructions notified for that return. The electronic verification process and applicable time limit should always be checked against current departmental instructions.
Under the applicable e-filing notifications, including Notification No. 2/2024 dated 31 March 2024, a return verified within 30 days generally retains the original uploading date as the filing date. If verification is completed later, the verification date may be treated as the filing date, with potential late-filing consequences. An unverified return may be treated as invalid unless a competent authority accepts a valid condonation request.
How to e-verify an income tax return online
- Open the official Income Tax e-Filing portal and select Login.
- Sign in using your PAN or other permitted user ID and password. New users can follow the PAN registration guide.
- Choose e-File > Income Tax Returns > e-Verify Return.
- Find the return marked pending verification and select e-Verify.
- Choose an available verification method and complete the prompts described below.
- After successful verification, save the confirmation, transaction ID and acknowledgement for your records.
The portal also supports certain pre-login verification flows. Consult the official e-Verify user manual for the precise steps shown for your account.
Available methods of e-verification
Aadhaar OTP
Select the Aadhaar OTP option where available, consent to OTP generation and enter the code sent to the mobile number registered with Aadhaar. Check that PAN-Aadhaar linkage and mobile access are in place before starting.
EVC through bank account
Use a bank account that is pre-validated and EVC-enabled on the e-Filing portal. Generate the code through the offered bank-account option and enter it within its validity period.
EVC through demat account
Where supported, use a pre-validated, EVC-enabled demat account to receive and enter the verification code.
Net banking
Use the net-banking facility of a supported bank to access the e-Filing service and complete verification. Availability depends on bank integration and taxpayer eligibility.
Bank ATM
Eligible banks may provide an ATM-based EVC generation facility. Generate the EVC using the bank's supported process, then use it to verify the return on the portal.
Digital Signature Certificate
DSC verification is required for certain taxpayer categories and may be offered as an immediate verification option. Use a valid registered DSC and the portal's prescribed signing utility, if required.
For requirements and instructions, consult the official Generate EVC manual and e-Verify manual.
What if the 30-day deadline has passed?
Log in and inspect the return's verification status. If the portal offers late verification, you may be asked to provide a reason for delay and submit a condonation request. Acceptance is not automatic; the return is treated as valid only in accordance with the competent authority's decision. Read the official service request guidance.
Can I verify by sending a signed ITR-V?
Where permitted, download Form ITR-V, sign it and send it to the designated Centralised Processing Centre in the prescribed manner and within the required period. The date of receipt is relevant to the 30-day deadline. Check the latest official postal instructions and address before dispatch, as departmental guidance may be updated.
How to confirm successful e-verification
After submission, check for the portal's success message, transaction ID and acknowledgement number. You can also review the return's status under the e-Filing account. Retain the confirmation and any associated email or SMS for future reference.
Frequently asked questions
Is e-verification compulsory?
Verification of the return is compulsory. E-verification is generally the quickest method; eligible taxpayers may alternatively use signed ITR-V in accordance with the rules.
How long do I have to verify an ITR?
The generally applicable deadline is 30 days after uploading the return, subject to the relevant notifications and exceptional provisions.
Can I verify without Aadhaar OTP?
Yes, if eligible, you may use EVC through a bank or demat account, net banking, a supported ATM, DSC or the permitted physical ITR-V route.
Does uploading the ITR alone complete filing?
No. A return that remains unverified can be treated as invalid. Complete verification and retain the acknowledgement.
Related income tax guides
Read our guides on filing an income tax return online, resetting your e-Filing password and filing an ITR rectification request.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for the applicable law, notifications or professional advice. Portal menus, eligibility and procedures may change. Verify important details on the official Income Tax Department website.