CBDT provides one-time relaxation to verify e-filed returns; ITRs filed for AY 2020-21 can be verified by 28-02-2022

Circular no. 21/2021, dated 28-12-2021

Verification of return is a crucial step to complete the process of filing of Income-tax return. After successfully filing the income tax return, a taxpayer must verify it within the time limit of 120 days. If a return is filed but not verified within such permitted time, it shall be deemed as an invalid return.

It came before the notice of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) that the large number of electronically filed ITRs for the Assessment Year 2020­-21 remain pending for want of receipt of a valid ITR-V Form or e-Verification.

Thus, the CBDT has decided to provide one-time relaxation to verify ITR filed for Assessment Year 2020-21. The taxpayer has been permitted to verify all such returns either by sending a duly signed physical copy of ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru through speed post or through EVC/OTP modes. Such verification process must be completed by 28.02.2022.

However, the relaxation shall not apply in those cases where the Income-tax Department has already taken recourse to any other measure as specified in the Act for ensuring filing of a tax return by the taxpayer concerned after declaring the return as non-est.
The Board has also issued directions that such returns shall be processed by 30.06.2022, and intimation of processing of such returns shall be sent as per the laid down procedure. In refund cases, the provision of section 244A(2) would apply while determining the interest on refund.

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