Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is only half the job done — the other equally important step is e-verification. According to the Income Tax Department, an ITR must be verified within 30 days of filing, failing which it is considered invalid. This means your ITR will not be processed, and any potential refunds or tax adjustments will be put on hold.

If you've filed your ITR but forgot to e-verify it, don’t worry — there are multiple ways to complete the verification process quickly and easily. Here's everything you need to know about why e-verification is crucial, how to do it, and what options you have if you're late.

Why E-Verification Matters

E-verification acts as your digital signature confirming that the return filed is indeed yours and accurate. Without verification, the Income Tax Department does not accept the return as complete. If not verified within the 30-day window, the return is declared invalid and you may have to file a new return altogether — possibly with penalties.

Consequences of Missing the Deadline

If you fail to e-verify within the 30-day deadline:

• Your ITR will be treated as not filed.

• Any refund due will be cancelled.

• You may need to re-file your return with late filing fees under Section 234F.

• Delay can also lead to notices from the IT department.

How to E-Verify Your ITR

There are several methods to verify your ITR electronically. Choose the one that suits you best:

1. Aadhaar OTP Verification

• Visit the Income Tax e-filing portal.

• Select the option to verify using Aadhaar OTP.

• An OTP will be sent to your mobile number linked with Aadhaar.

• Enter the OTP to complete verification.

2. Net Banking

• Log in to your bank account via Net Banking.

• Navigate to the Income Tax section and select "e-Verify Return".

• Follow the prompts to complete verification.

3. Electronic Verification Code (EVC)

• Generate an EVC via your bank account, demat account, or ATM.

• Enter the code on the ITR portal to verify.

4. Offline Option: Send a Signed Copy

• If you're unable to e-verify online, print the ITR-V form.

• Sign it and send it via ordinary post or speed post to:

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  Centralized Processing Centre (CPC), Income Tax Department, Bengaluru – 560500

• Ensure it reaches within 30 days of filing.

How to Check Your ITR Verification Status

• Log in to www.incometax.gov.in.

• Go to ‘View Returns/Forms’.

• Select the relevant assessment year.

• You'll see the verification status of your ITR.

Pro Tips to Avoid Future Delays

• Always verify your return immediately after filing.

• Keep your PAN linked to your Aadhaar and bank account.

• Save the confirmation email or SMS received after verification.

• Avoid relying solely on offline options, as postal delays can invalidate your return.

Conclusion:
Missing e-verification can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Fortunately, the Income Tax Department has provided multiple user-friendly options to help you complete the process on time. Stay informed and act promptly to ensure your ITR is successfully filed and processed.