An E Verification Code (EVC) is a 10-digit alphanumeric code sent to your mobile number or email, used to verify your Income Tax Return (ITR) electronically. In the past, taxpayers had to physically sign and send the ITR-V acknowledgment to CPC Bangalore by post. EVC has eliminated this hassle.
When you ask “what is E Verification Code in ITR,” you are referring to the OTP (One Time Password) that legally finalizes your tax filing process. Without verification (either via EVC or physical post), your ITR is considered invalid and will not be processed.
What Does EVC Income Tax Mean?
It acts as a digital signature.
Validity: Usually valid for 72 hours from generation.
Usage: It verifies that you (the authorized person) are submitting the return.
Why EVC is Important
- Instant Processing: E-verified returns are processed much faster (sometimes in days) compared to physical ITR-V which takes weeks.
- Convenience: No need to print, sign, and visit the post office.
- Safety: Removes the risk of the physical ITR-V getting lost in transit.
Where is EVC Used?
- E-Verify ITR: The primary use case.
- Login: You can login to the e-filing portal using valid EVC instead of a password.
- Reset Password: Used to reset forgotten passwords.
How to Find or Generate EVC
Method 1: Aadhaar OTP (Most Popular)
1. Select “Verify via Aadhaar OTP”.
2. An OTP is sent to the mobile linked to your Aadhaar.
3. Enter it to verify instantly.
Method 2: Net Banking
1. Login to your Bank’s Net Banking.
2. Find “Income Tax E-Filing” option.
3. It redirects you to the tax portal and generates an EVC.
Method 3: Bank Account/Demat Account
If you have Pre-validated your bank/demat account on the portal and enabled EVC, you can choose “Generate EVC” to get the code on your mobile/email.
Example of EVC
Code: AB12345678 (10 digits)
Message: “EVC for PAN XXXXX1234X is 8765432109…”
Common Problems or Errors
- Mobile Not Linked: The biggest hurdle is if your mobile number is not linked to Aadhaar or Bank Account. You cannot generate EVC.
- Mismatch: Name in Bank and PAN must match exactly for Bank-EVC to work.
Important Things to Remember
- You must verify your ITR within 30 days of filing (reduced from 120 days).
- If you cannot generate EVC, you still have the option to send the signed ITR-V to Bangalore.
- Check PRN Number if you are updating Aadhaar for OTP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the time limit to verify ITR using EVC?
Currently, you must verify your ITR within 30 days of submitting the form online. If you miss this, the return is treated as invalid.
Can I use the same EVC for multiple returns?
No, an EVC is unique to a specific PAN and usually for a single session or transaction. You need to generate a new one for a new task.
What to do if Aadhaar OTP is not coming?
Try the Net Banking or Pre-validated Bank Account method. Alternatively, try again after some time as UIDAI servers might be busy.
Is DSC same as EVC?
No. DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) is a USB token used by companies and auditors. EVC is an OTP-based verification for individuals.
Can I verify previous years’ ITR now?
If you have a “Condonation of Delay” request approved, you can verify old returns. Otherwise, the window closes after 30 days.