Wondering if your ITR was successfully filed? The Acknowledgment Number tells all

ITR's Acknowledgment Number: Confused about how to confirm your Income Tax Return submission? Here’s what you need to know about the Acknowledgment Number. When filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) for 2024, one key element you’ll encounter is this number.

According to experts, this number is confirmation that your ITR has been successfully lodged and accepted by the Income Tax Department. It appears on the ITR-V (Income Tax Return Verification) form, which is sent to your email post e-filing.

Why download your Acknowledgment Number?

Obtaining and retaining your Acknowledgment Number is crucial for several reasons, as explained by, Arpit Suri, CA and personal finance expert.

"Firstly, it serves as proof that your Income Tax Return (ITR) has been officially submitted. Secondly, it is essential for completing the verification process of your ITR, ensuring that your return is validated. Lastly, it aids in tracking the status of your return and provides a reference in case any issues arise," Suri said.

The Income Tax Return Verification Form, abbreviated as ITR-V, is a single-page document issued to individuals who file their income tax returns electronically without a digital signature. To download the ITR-V form, which includes your Acknowledgment Number, visit the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal and log in using your PAN details and password.

Then, navigate to "e-File," select "Income Tax Returns," and choose "View Filed Returns." Locate the list of your filed ITRs and identify the assessment year for which you need the Acknowledgment Number. Click on the "Download Form" button next to the relevant assessment year to initiate the download of the ITR-V form containing your Acknowledgment Number.

How to verify your ITR online

Once you have your Acknowledgement Number, you need to verify your ITR within 30 days. Here’s how you can do it:

• Aadhaar-linked OTP: Use a One-Time Password sent to your mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
• EVC from Bank Account: Generate an Electronic Verification Code (EVC) through your pre-validated bank account or ATM.
• Net Banking: Verify using your bank’s net banking portal.
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): If you have a DSC, use it for secure verification.