Verification of ITR

Verification of the Income Tax Return (ITR) is a crucial step in the tax filing process in India. Once you’ve successfully filed your ITR, it must be verified to be processed by the Income Tax Department. The verification process confirms that the details provided in the return filed by the taxpayer are true and correct.

Electronic Verification Options

1. Aadhaar–based OTP

If your Aadhaar number is linked to your PAN and mobile number, you can opt for this method. You will receive an OTP (One Time Password) on your mobile number registered with Aadhaar. Enter this OTP on the e-filing portal to complete the verification.

2. Net Banking

You can log in to your bank’s internet banking portal, which is pre-validated on the e-filing portal, and select the option to e-verify the return. This method directly redirects you to the e-filing portal for verification.

3. Bank Account Number

Prevalidate your bank account on the e-filing portal. After filing your ITR, you can select this option and receive an EVC (Electronic Verification Code) on your mobile number and email ID registered with the prevalidated bank account. Enter this EVC on the portal to verify your return.

4. Demat Account Number

Similar to the bank account method, you can prevalidate your demat account on the e-filing portal. After filing your ITR, choose this option to receive an EVC on your registered mobile number and email ID. Use this EVC for verification.

5. Bank ATM (Offline)

Certain banks offer ATM services to generate an EVC. Swipe your ATM card in your bank’s ATM and choose the option to generate an EVC for Income Tax filing. You will receive an EVC on your registered mobile number, which can be used to verify your return on the e-filing portal.

Physical Verification

6. Sending ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru

If you are unable to opt for electronic verification, you can verify your return physically. After filing your ITR, download the ITR-V (Acknowledgement), sign it in blue ink, and send it via ordinary post or speed post to the Central Processing Centre (CPC) in Bengaluru within 120 days of e-filing your return. No other documents are required to be sent along with ITR-V.

Important Points to Note

• The return is not considered valid until it has been verified.
• The Income Tax Department starts processing your ITR only after it is verified.
• The deadline for verification of the ITR is 120 days from the date of e-filing. If not verified within this period, the return is treated as if it was never filed.
• Keep a track of your ITR status on the e-filing portal. After successful verification, the status will be updated to “Successfully Verified” or “ITR-V Received.” Later, when the department processes your return, the status will change accordingly.