Validation of tax returns through an Electronic Verification Code

Background

Taxpayers who are not mandated to use a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for uploading their India Tax Returns   (ITR) are eligible to e-verify the same instead of sending the signed physical copy to the Central Processing Centre, Bangalore to complete the ITR filing process.

E-verification of the ITR could be made in one of the following ways from the Assessment Year (AY) 2015-16:

• The Electronic Verification Code (EVC) received on the registered mobile number and email is a 10-digit alphanumeric code which can be generated by placing a request through the e-filing portal which is valid for 72 hours. The ITR can be e-verified at the e-filing portal by entering the EVC so received.
• Aadhar One Time Password (OTP): Under this option, e-filing portal generates an OTP which is sent to the mobile number registered under Aadhar. This OTP needs to be entered in the e-filing portal to verify the ITR.
• Net banking: The ITR could also be e-verified by logging into the net banking facility (from the list of prescribed banks).

The CBDT had further permitted the e-verification for the ITRs filed for the AYs 2013-14 and 2014-15. This Order is also applicable to ITRs whose ITR-V submission deadline was extended up to 31 October 2015.

CBDT Order

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has now issued an Order permitting an e-Verification through EVC for the following categories of ITR:

• Filed electronically on or after 1 April 2015 pertaining to AY 2014-15; or
• Filed in response to notices issued; or
• Filed as a consequence to condonation of delay.

This Order extends the facility of an EVC mode of verification from being available only to ITRs of AYs 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16 to a host of categories as specified.