Here is a fact that surprises many first time filers: submitting your ITR is not the end. Until you verify it, the law treats your return as never filed. Lakhs of returns become invalid every year for exactly this reason, and the fix takes under a minute.
Aadhaar OTP: the 30 second method
If your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar and your PAN is linked to Aadhaar, this is the way. Choose Aadhaar OTP verification, receive the code on your phone, type it in, done. The OTP comes from the government's own system, which is why no filing platform ever needs your Aadhaar number itself.
The other four methods
- ✓Net banking: log in to the portal through your bank
- ✓Bank account EVC: a code sent via your pre-validated account
- ✓Demat account EVC: same idea, through your demat account
- ✓Physical ITR-V: print, sign and post to CPC Bengaluru (the slow, old school route)
When Aadhaar OTP fails
The usual culprit is an old mobile number on Aadhaar. You can update it at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra, or simply use one of the other methods meanwhile. Whatever you choose, remember the 30 day window from the filing date.
On Saathi.Tax, e-verification is the last step of the same flow, so you file and verify in one sitting and never leave it dangling.
