ITR Filing 2025: Have You Filed Your Return? Don’t Forget to Complete E-Verification Within 30 Days to Avoid Invalidation
As the extended deadline for filing income tax returns (ITR) for the assessment year 2025-26 (financial year 2024-25) approaches on September 15, many taxpayers have already submitted their returns online. However, it’s crucial to understand that the filing process isn’t complete until you verify your return. Failure to complete this essential step within 30 days of filing may lead to your ITR being declared invalid.
Why Is E-Verification Important?
Verification acts as the final confirmation that you have indeed filed the return yourself. Without this step, the Income Tax Department (ITD) will treat your income tax return as invalid, meaning it won’t be processed, and you will miss out on getting your refund or credit for taxes paid.
The verification process can be completed either electronically or by sending a physical signed copy of the ITR acknowledgment form (ITR-V) to the Central Processing Centre (CPC) in Bengaluru within the prescribed time limit.
How to Complete E-Verification?
Electronic verification is the preferred method as it is faster, more convenient, and instantly confirms return validation. Taxpayers can choose from various modes to e-verify their ITR:
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Aadhaar OTP: If your mobile number is linked to your Aadhaar card, this is one of the simplest options. After filing your return on the official portal (www.incometax.gov.in), select the Aadhaar OTP option to receive a one-time password on your registered mobile. Entering this OTP verifies your return immediately.
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Net Banking: Many banks offer an option to verify your ITR within their internet banking services. Simply log in to your net banking account and follow the instructions to e-verify your return.
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Electronic Verification Code (EVC): You can also generate an EVC via your pre-validated bank account, demat account, or through ATMs. This one-time code can be used to complete the verification electronically.
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Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Taxpayers with a DSC can use it for verification. While less common for individual taxpayers, this option is widely used by companies and professionals.
Once successfully verified, the e-filing portal will display a confirmation message with a transaction ID. Additionally, an email confirmation will be sent to the email address registered with your PAN.
What Happens If You Miss the 30-Day Window?
If you fail to verify your ITR within 30 days, your return will be considered invalid. To rectify this, you must file a request for ‘condonation of delay’ on the tax department’s e-filing portal. This request requires a valid reason for the delay. Once approved by the Income Tax Department, your return will be treated as verified.
Important Reminders for Taxpayers
- Ensure your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar card for easy OTP verification.
- Double-check your bank details and net banking access if you choose to verify through these channels.
- Keep a record of the transaction ID and email confirmation after e-verification.
- Avoid delays to save the hassle of applying for condonation and potential complications in processing your return.
In conclusion, completing your e-verification promptly after filing your ITR is essential to ensure your income tax return is valid and processed smoothly. With less than two months remaining before the September 15 deadline, taxpayers are urged to act quickly if they have not yet verified their returns.
For more detailed guidance and assistance, visit the official income tax e-filing website at www.incometax.gov.in.
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