1Do I have to verify my income tax return?
Yes — an unverified return is treated as not filed. You must verify within the prescribed window after filing, or you lose the benefit of having filed (and may have to re-file, possibly late).
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ArticleMany people file their return and assume they're done — but an unverified return is treated as not filed. E-verification is the quick final step that completes the process. Here's how to e-verify.
Reviewed by CA Harika Chebolu, FCA · Last updated 2026-06-13
Quick answer
Filing isn't complete until you verify — most easily via Aadhaar OTP, net banking or bank EVC, within the time limit. Here's how.
Submitting your return online isn't the end — you must verify it within the prescribed window, or it's treated as never filed, costing you the benefit of timely filing. E-verification is the fast, paperless way to complete the process.
If your Aadhaar is linked to your PAN and your mobile is registered with Aadhaar, you can verify instantly with a one-time password sent to that mobile. This is the quickest and most common method for individuals.
You can also e-verify through your net banking (logging in and selecting the e-verify option) or by generating an Electronic Verification Code (EVC) through your bank account or demat account. These suit those who prefer not to use Aadhaar OTP.
There's a window after filing within which you must verify. Verify immediately after filing so you don't forget — leaving it risks the return lapsing as unverified, which means re-filing, possibly late, with the consequences that brings.
If you can't e-verify, you can post a signed physical copy of the ITR-V acknowledgement to the central processing centre within the window — but e-verification is far faster and avoids postal delays. Use the offline route only if you must.
Yes — an unverified return is treated as not filed. You must verify within the prescribed window after filing, or you lose the benefit of having filed (and may have to re-file, possibly late).
Aadhaar OTP — instant, if your Aadhaar is linked to your PAN and your mobile is registered with Aadhaar. Net banking and a bank/demat EVC are other quick options.
It's treated as not filed , so you'd need to file again — possibly after the deadline, with late fees and lost benefits. Verify immediately after filing to avoid this.
Filed but not sure it's verified? Write to the firm and we'll make sure your return is completed properly.