ITR e-Verification options: Aadhar OTP vs Net Banking vs EVC, What to Pick and Why
Disclaimer: This article is for general information/education and is not investment advice. The information is shared in good faith and for general informational purposes only. Ujjivan SFB does not make any representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the content.
February 17, 2026
Many income tax returns remain incomplete every year because they are not e-verified. If an ITR is not verified within 30 days of filing, it is considered invalid or not filed. Refunds processing begins only after successful verification and processing by CPC (Centralised Processing Centre).
As tax filing season approaches, it is important to choose the correct e-verification method. The Income Tax portal offers options such as Aadhar OTP, Net Banking, and Electronic Verification Code (EVC). Each option suits a different situation. Here is a simple guide to help you pick the right one.
What to Note Before You Choose an ITR e-Verification Method?
Before selecting a verification option, check these basic details on the Income Tax portal:
If any of these are not updated, the e-verification of ITR may fail. It is better to confirm these details first and then select the method of e-verifying ITR that fits your situation.
What is the Time Limit to e-Verify ITR?
Your return must be e-verified within 30 days from the date of filing. If it is not verified within this period, the return is treated as not filed. Refunds are not processed until verification is completed.
What Are the Different Ways to e-Verify ITR?
The Income Tax portal provides multiple methods to e-verify your Income Tax Return. You can choose the option that matches your linked details and access.
1. e-Verification of ITR Using Aadhar OTP
This is the simplest way to e-verify your ITR.
Use this method if:
Your PAN is linked with Aadhar, and the mobile number linked with Aadhar is active.
Steps:
Step 1: Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal
Step 2: Go to e-File → Income Tax Returns → e-Verify Return
Step 3: Choose “I would like to e-Verify using OTP on mobile number registered with Aadhar”
Step 4: Click Continue and then tick the Aadhar consent checkbox
Step 5: Click “Generate Aadhar OTP”
Step 6: Enter the 6-digit OTP and click “Validate”
Step 7: A success message with a Transaction ID will appear. A confirmation email or SMS will also be sent.
If the OTP is not received or your Aadhar is not linked with PAN, this method will not work. In that case, choose another option.
2. e-Verification of ITR Through Net Banking
This method verifies your return through your bank account.
Use this method if:
You use Net Banking regularly, and your bank supports the e-Filing service. It is helpful if the Aadhar OTP is not working.
Steps:
Step 1: Log in to your bank’s Net Banking account.
Step 2: Go to Services/ Tax Services / Income Tax e-Filing (exact names may vary by the bank)
Step 3: Click on “Login to Income Tax e-Filing”. You will be automatically redirected to the Income Tax portal without entering credentials again.
Step 4: Once redirected, go to: e-File → Income Tax Returns → e-Verify Return
Step 5: Select the relevant ITR that is pending verification.
Step 6: Choose “e-Verify through Net Banking”.
Step 7: Confirm the verification request.
Step 8: You will see a success message along with a Transaction ID.
You will also receive confirmation via SMS/email.
3. e-Verification of ITR Through Electronic Verification Code (EVC)
EVC is a 10-digit code used to verify your return. It can be generated through a pre-validated bank account, a demat account, or a selected bank ATM.
Use this method if:
Aadhar OTP is not working, or you prefer not to use Net Banking.
Option 1: Generate EVC through Bank Account
Before you start:
Ensure Your bank account is pre-validated and EVC enabled on the Income Tax Department portal.
Steps:
Step 1: Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal
Step 2: Go to e-File → Income Tax Returns → e-Verify Return
Step 3: Choose “Generate EVC through Bank Account.”
Step 4: EVC will be sent to the mobile/email ID registered with your bank
Step 5: Enter the 10 digit EVC in the provided field to verify your return
Option 2: Generate EVC through Demat Account
Before you start:
Your demat account must be pre-validated.
Steps:
Step 1: Log in to the e-Filing portal→Profile Settings→My Bank Account/My Demat Account(depending on UI update)
Step 2: Click “Enable EVC”. Your mobile number should be registered with NSDL/CDSL
Step 3: Select “e-File’’→ Income Tax Returns→ “e-Verify Return”
Step 4: Choose “Generate EVC through Demat Account.”
Step 5: Enter the EVC received
Step 6: Submit/e-verify button
Option 3: Generate EVC through ATM (Available only for limited banks.)
Check with your bank whether ATM-based EVC generation is enabled
Steps:
Step 1: Visit your bank’s ATM
Step 2: Insert your debit card and enter your ATM PIN
Step 3: Select “Generate EVC for Income Tax Filing”
Step 4: You will receive the EVC on your registered mobile number
Step 5: Log in to the Income Tax portal and use this code under “e-Verify Return”
Validity: The EVC generated via ATM is valid for 72 hours
4. e-Verification of ITR Using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
In certain cases, e-Verification must be done using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). This is generally mandatory for companies and taxpayers whose accounts are subject to audit. The DSC must be registered on the Income Tax e-Filing portal before it can be used. This method is mainly applicable to business or professional filings and is not commonly used by individual salaried taxpayers.
Steps for E-Verifying ITR with DSC
Step 1: Make sure the DSC is active and registered on the Income Tax Portal
Step 2: Download and install the emsigner utility from the “Verify Your Identity” page
Step 3: Select “I would like to e-Verify using Digital Signature Certificate(DSC)”
Step 4: Insert the USB token, choose the certificate, and enter the provider password or PIN
Step 5: Click “Sign” to finish. Success message and Transaction ID will appear.
What Happens After Successful e-Verification of ITR?
Once your income tax return is successfully e-Verified, its status changes to “Successfully e-Verified.” The Income Tax Department then begins processing your return. If a refund is due, it will be issued after processing. You can track the status under e-File → Income Tax Returns → View Filed Returns on the portal.
Final Thoughts
E-verification completes your tax filing. Without it, your return remains incomplete and refunds may be delayed. Choosing the right method helps avoid last-minute issues.
For most individual taxpayers, Aadhar OTP is usually the simplest option. Net Banking and EVC serve as reliable alternatives if needed. Completing this step on time ensures your return is processed without disruption.
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