Rupali 
If you file your income tax return (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025-26, you must finish the ITR e-verification within 30 days-miss it, and it’s like you never filed at all. Many taxpayers forget this crucial last step and end up losing their refund or facing penalties. Don’t let all your careful tax filing go to waste!
Here is an easy, step-by-step guide from MoneyGale on why ITR e-verification matters, how to do it, and how to avoid costly mistakes that can ruin your tax season.
Why ITR E-Verification Is So Important
- ITR e-verification makes your tax return officially accepted by the Income Tax Department.
- If you miss ITR e-verification within 30 days from filing, your return is not valid, you can miss refunds, face late fees, and even penalties.
- The countdown starts from your filing date (not the deadline).
- This rule applies for AY 2025-26 and is backed by Income Tax Department official.
ITR E-Verification Deadline Table
| What | Last Date |
|---|---|
| ITR E-Filing (no audit) | 15 September 2025 |
| ITR E-Verification | 30 days from e-filing |
| Belated ITR Filing | 31 December 2025 |
How to Do ITR E-Verification: Simple Steps
1. ITR E-Verification Using Aadhaar OTP
- Make sure your Aadhaar & PAN are linked and the correct mobile number is registered.
- Log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal.
- Click ‘e-File’ > ‘Income Tax Returns’ > ‘e-Verify Return’.
- Choose ‘Aadhaar OTP’, enter OTP received on your linked mobile, and submit. This instantly completes your ITR e-verification!
2. ITR E-Verification via Net Banking
- Log in to your bank’s net banking account.
- Find the ‘e-Verify Income Tax Return’ option.
- You’ll be directed to the tax portal to complete ITR e-verification directly.
3. EVC (Electronic Verification Code)
- Generate EVC through your validated bank account, demat, or eligible ATM.
- Enter the code on the portal for instant ITR e-verification.
4. Using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Mostly for company or audit cases.
- Upload and e-verify with your registered DSC.
5. Offline: Sending ITR-V
- Download, print, and sign the ITR-V form.
- Courier to:
Centralized Processing Centre,
Income Tax Department,
Bengaluru – 560500, Karnataka - Must reach within 30 days of filing (see How to e-Verify official help).
What Happens If You Don’t Complete ITR E-Verification in 30 Days?
- Your ITR will not be processed-no refund, even if your taxes are paid.
- Return is marked ‘invalid’, as if never filed.
- You will have to file a request explaining the delay (condonation request) on the portal. Approval is not guaranteed.
- You may lose carry-forward of losses, and may face penalties of Rs.1,000–5,000.
Common Mistakes With ITR E-Verification
- Assuming submission is enough-You must verify every year.
- Using an old phone number for Aadhaar OTP.
- Waiting till the last date-technical errors can block you.
- Not checking email/SMS for e-verification confirmation.
Smart Tips for Easy ITR E-Verification
- Complete ITR e-verification on the same day as filing.
- Double-check acknowledgment and transaction ID received.
- Store the email/SMS from the tax portal for proof.
- Review your filing status on the portal under ‘View Returns/Form’.
See our detailed guides: ITR Filing Guide and Tax Refund Process.
FAQ About ITR E-Verification
Q: Do ITR e-verification and filing have to happen together?
A: You have up to 30 days after filing to complete ITR e-verification.
Q: Can I do ITR e-verification after 30 days?
A: Only if the tax department accepts your condonation request online.
Q: If I send the ITR-V late, what happens?
A: Return is considered invalid unless condonation is accepted.
Want to stay worry-free about taxes, savings, and insurance? Rely on MoneyGale for simple tips, expert guides, and real updates that help you secure your money goals. Our team breaks down complex rules into clear advice so you can make smart moves every year.
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