Verification is necessary after filing your ITR Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is only half the process; the other half is verifying it. If you’ve filed your return but haven’t verified it, the Income Tax Department doesn’t process it. This verification confirms that the details filed are true and correct. The department gives 30 days from the date of filing to complete this step, failing which your return is treated as invalid.
Consequences of missing the 30-day deadline If your ITR-V (also known as acknowledgement) is not verified within the stipulated time, your return will be void. It will be considered not filed and you will lose any possible refund, carry-forward of loss, and may be charged with penalty for default in furnishing. In this case, you'll have to re-file your return, perhaps with a late filing fee under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act.
E-verification is the fastest and most reliable method To complete the verification process, you can do so electronically or physically. The simplest and fastest way is e-verification. You can e-verify your return using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, bank ATM, demat account, or through a bank account enrolled with the Income Tax Department. All these are offered through the official income tax portal and only take a few minutes.
Aadhaar OTP and net banking modes Amongst these modes, the most popular one is Aadhaar OTP. When you choose this mode, an OTP is sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number which you must enter on the portal to bring about verification. Or when you are doing it through net banking, you log in through your bank's portal and click the link "e-verify" which will take you to the income tax website. Make sure your PAN is linked and active with your Aadhaar and bank accounts to avoid failures.
Physical verification through post if needed If you’re unable to e-verify for some reason, there is also the option of sending a physical signed copy of the ITR-V to the Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) in Bengaluru. This must be done within the 30-day window. However, due to postal delays and processing time, this alternative should only be used unless electronic means are not an option. Always verify your verification status by looking under the "View Returns/Forms" menu on the income tax website so that it is finished.
Why verifying your ITR is important Not verifying your ITR may not just invalidate your return, but could also impact your financial history, especially if you need proof of income while processing your visa, loan, or credit applications. For hassle-free processing, always verify your ITR within time and keep a digital or physical copy of your ITR-V for personal records. Verification is no less important than filing—follow through with the process.
