Income Tax Returns filed for FY 2025-26 must be verified within the stipulated timeframe to remain valid. According to reports from Zee News, without verification within the specified time, an ITR is treated as invalid. Individuals can e-verify their return data using various modes available with the tax department, with the e-verification process being the most efficient method available on the tax portal.
The e-verification process is simple, easy, and secure, eliminating the need to send manual ITR-V forms. As reported by Zee News, the process involves visiting the e-filing portal, logging in with credentials, clicking on the 'e-verify Return' option, entering PAN details, mobile number, and ITR acknowledgement number. Users must enter a 6-digit OTP received on their mobile and submit it to proceed. For verifications after 30 days, users must select a reason for the delay and choose from listed e-verification methods.
Users can verify through Aadhaar OTP if their cellphone number is connected to Aadhaar and registered in the UIDAI database. According to Zee News, the process requires selecting 'I would like to verify using OTP on a mobile phone registered with Aadhaar' and clicking 'Continue'. Users must check the box labelled 'I accept to authenticate my Aadhaar details' and select 'Generate Aadhaar OTP'. The registered cellphone will receive an SMS with the 6-digit OTP, which must be entered and submitted to confirm the ITR.
Net banking verification is available through the e-filing account by selecting 'Through Net Banking' and choosing the bank for validation. As reported by Zee News, users must read and accept the disclaimer before logging into their bank's Net Banking. The e-Verify option is typically found under the 'Tax' page, where users can navigate to the relevant ITR form and select e-Verify to complete the process.
For those preferring manual verification, the ITR-V/Acknowledgment must be verified, printed, and signed within 30 days from the date of transmitting the data electronically to the tax department. According to Zee News, ITR-V sent by Registered Post or Courier will not be accepted. The ITR-V must be sent by Ordinary Post OR Speed Post only, and shall not be received in any other office of the Income-tax Department or in any other manner.
