ITR Filing 2025
For ITR filing 2025, taxpayers must e-verify their income tax returns within 30 days of submission. Failing to do so will invalidate the return, possibly leading to penalties of up to ₹5,000 and delayed refunds. The Income Tax Department provides several simple e-verification methods to ensure timely compliance.
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Mandatory E-Verification for ITR Filing 2025
The Income Tax Department now requires taxpayers to e-verify their returns within 30 days of submission on the official e-filing portal (www.incometax.gov.in). This rule has been in place since August 1, 2022, reducing the previous 120-day period to a stricter 30-day timeline.
Failing to complete e-verification in time makes the return invalid. As a result, taxpayers could face penalties under Section 234F, including a ₹5,000 fine or ₹1,000 for those with income below ₹5 lakh. Refunds may also get delayed, and the department may issue notices. To avoid these issues, taxpayers should e-verify their returns immediately after submission.
Why E-Verification Matters
E-verification serves as the final confirmation of your tax return. Once verified, the Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) in Bengaluru begins processing your ITR. Without verification, the system considers your return unfiled, blocking refunds and possibly causing compliance issues.
For the financial year 2024–25 (AY 2025–26), even though the ITR deadline is September 15, 2025, the 30-day e-verification period starts from the actual date of filing—not the deadline. This change improves fraud control and efficiency but also demands prompt action from taxpayers.
How to E-Verify Your ITR
The Income Tax Department offers several digital e-verification methods:
Aadhaar OTP linked to your registered mobile
Net banking through your bank account
Electronic Verification Code (EVC) via validated bank or demat accounts
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for professionals and businesses
To e-verify, log in to the e-filing portal. Go to ‘e-File’ > ‘Income Tax Returns’ > ‘E-Verify Return’ and choose a method. The system will confirm the verification instantly and issue a transaction ID.
If needed, you can also mail a signed ITR-V form to the CPC in Bengaluru. However, this method is slower and less reliable due to postal delays, so digital options are preferable.
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Missing the Deadline: What Happens Next?
If you fail to e-verify within 30 days, you must submit a condonation request, explaining your delay. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on the department’s discretion.
Moreover, late e-verification can attract interest under Section 234A, especially if the filing deadline has also been missed. To stay safe, set reminders, verify early, and opt for digital methods. This ensures full compliance with ITR filing 2025 rules and speeds up your refund process.
