Filing ≠ finished
After submitting ITR on incometax.gov.in, you must e-verify within 30 days (confirm current rule on portal). Unverified returns are treated as invalid — refunds stall and compliance clock does not start.
E-verify methods (typical)
| Method | Who it suits |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar OTP | Most individuals with linked Aadhaar |
| Net banking | Account holders at eligible banks |
| DSC | Professionals, companies, high-volume filers |
| ATM EVC | Legacy; limited banks |
| Demat account | Some portals offer via NSDL/CDSL |
Aadhaar OTP is the fastest for most salaried filers — mobile number linked to Aadhaar receives OTP on portal.
Step-by-step (Aadhaar OTP)
- Log in to incometax.gov.in
- Go to e-File → Income Tax Returns → e-Verify Return
- Select return pending verification
- Choose Aadhaar OTP
- Enter OTP on mobile
- Download acknowledgment
If e-verify fails
- Aadhaar not linked → link at portal first
- Mobile not updated → update Aadhaar/mobile
- Bank net banking greyed out → use Aadhaar or another bank account
After verification
- Refund processing begins (if applicable) — see refund status guide
- Keep ITR-V and computation PDF for seven years
- Companion guide from LastMinute ITR still helps for portal field entry — you file manually on ITD
Belated and revised returns
Belated returns also need e-verify. Revised returns replace original after verification rules — check portal for same 30-day window.
Pay before verify?
If [tax payable](/glossary/tax-payable) > 0, pay via challan before or while filing — e-verify does not collect tax automatically.