ITR Filing 2026: 5 Simple Ways to E‑Verify Your Return

It’s that time of the year again – the Income Tax Department has opened the window for filing your ITR for the financial year 2025‑26. While the online filing process itself has become pretty slick, you still need that final step: e‑verification. If you skip it, your return will sit in limbo, and you’ll keep getting reminders. So, let’s cut through the jargon and walk through the five most common ways you can confirm your return without ever stepping out of your home.

1. Aadhaar‑based OTP
The easiest method for most people is the Aadhaar OTP. While you’re on the e‑file portal, simply select “Aadhaar OTP” as your verification option, enter your 12‑digit Aadhaar number, and hit “Generate OTP”. The one‑time password lands straight on your registered mobile within seconds. Pop it in, click verify, and you’re done. No paperwork, no waiting.

2. Net‑Banking (IFSC) Verification
If you prefer banking channels, you can use your net‑banking credentials. Choose the “Net Banking” option, pick your bank from the drop‑down list, and the portal will redirect you to your bank’s login page. After authenticating with your usual username, password, and any two‑factor token, you’ll be asked to approve the e‑verification request. A quick thumbs‑up and the ITR is officially verified.

3. Demat Account (DP) Verification
Demat holders have a shortcut as well. The system can send an electronic verification code (EVC) to the email address linked with your depository participant. Retrieve the code, paste it back on the portal, and the return gets stamped as verified. It’s handy for traders who already keep a close eye on their demat statements.

4. Bank Account (Pre‑registered) Verification
For those who have previously linked a bank account for e‑verification, the process is almost invisible. When you pick the “Bank Account” option, the portal pulls your account details and instantly confirms the return, provided the account is still active and the IFSC matches. No OTP, no extra steps – just a silent nod from the system.

5. DigiLocker / EVC via Mobile Number
Finally, you can go the document‑store route. Upload a scanned copy of a PAN‑linked document (like your Aadhaar card) to DigiLocker, generate an EVC, and enter it on the ITR portal. Alternatively, if you have a mobile number registered with the tax department, you can request an OTP directly to that number. Both ways let you verify without ever needing a physical signature.

Remember, each method has its own set of prerequisites – a valid Aadhaar, an active net‑banking login, a linked demat account, or a registered mobile number. Pick the one you’re most comfortable with, follow the prompts, and you’ll be able to hit that “Submit” button with confidence. No more waiting for a physical verification by post, no more chasing paperwork. The digital age is here, and your ITR can finally keep up.

One last tip: after you’ve verified, download the ITR‑V acknowledgment PDF and store it safely. It’s your proof that the return was successfully filed and verified. In case of any queries later, you’ll thank yourself for having that copy at hand.