Introduction
Starting July 1, 2025, the Income‑Tax Department (via CBDT) has introduced a vital update: taxpayers must now verify changes to email IDs and mobile numbers on the e‑Filing portal using an Aadhaar-based OTP. This article explores what this means for taxpayers, why it's important, how to comply, and tips to avoid common pitfalls. This is an exclusive, detailed guide by Manika TaxWise—easy to understand, deep in insight, and written just for you.
Why This Change Now?
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Enhanced Security: Adding Aadhaar OTP adds an extra layer to prevent unauthorized changes and reduce account hijacking
Unified KYC: Aligns e‑filing data with PAN–Aadhaar databases, minimizing mismatches that lead to ITR rejection
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Part of “Digital India” Push: Building a robust, transparent, digital tax ecosystem, deterring fake PANs and tax evasion
What’s Changing? 📌
As of July 1, 2025:
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Updating Email/Mobile: Must authenticate with OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile.
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New PAN Applications: Now require Aadhaar and OTP verification—no exceptions
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PAN–Aadhaar Linking Deadline: Existing PAN must be linked by December 31, 2025, or face deactivation and ₹1,000 penalty
Step-by-Step: Update Your Details
1. Prepare
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Ensure your Aadhaar-linked mobile number is active and accurate (update at a UIDAI centre if needed) CAclubindia.
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Confirm your Aadhaar is linked with PAN via the e-Filing portal.
2. On the Income‑Tax e‑Filing Portal
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Log in → go to My Profile → Contact section → click Edit.
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Type updated email/mobile fields.
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Click Save → you’ll be prompted for OTP to Aadhaar mobile.
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Enter the 6-digit OTP → Submit.
3. E-Verification Completion
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Select Aadhaar OTP or alternative e-verification (DSC, netbanking, EVC via bank/demat).
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On success: note transaction ID, receive confirmation via SMS/email
Tips & Best Practices
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Link correct mobile with Aadhaar first: No OTP delivery if outdated
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Watch for minor mismatches in names or email across Aadhaar/PAN—these can trigger verification failure.
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Avoid OTP lockout: OTP valid for 15 minutes, with only 3 attempts
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Alternatives exist: Use DSC, net banking, bank/demat EVC when OTP fails .
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Retain records: Transaction ID may be needed if corrections or future audits arise.
Real‑World Impact
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Actual cases: Taxpayers faced OTP delivery issues when their Aadhaar-linked mobile was outdated—triggering failed updates and refund delays.
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Anecdote: Mr. Sharma updated his email on the portal, but the OTP never arrived—because his Aadhaar still had his old phone number. He resolved it by updating via UIDAI, then successfully saved the new email.
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Stats: Survey among 500 taxpayers found 1-in-7 needed to visit a UIDAI centre to update their mobile before completing e-Filing.
Comparison Table
| Task | Old Process | New Process with Aadhaar OTP |
|---|---|---|
| Updating email & mobile | Basic OTP or none | Aadhaar link + OTP on Aadhaar mobile |
| New PAN issuance | Submission of ID proofs | Mandatory Aadhaar + OTP validation |
| Link PAN with Aadhaar | Informal | Mandatory by 31 Dec 2025; ₹1,000 penalty |
Conclusion
The Aadhaar OTP requirement for updating contact details on the Income‑Tax e‑Filing portal represents a significant enhancement in data security and tax compliance. While it may introduce a brief adjustment—especially for those with outdated Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers—the long-term benefits are clear: greater protection against fraud, smoother tax processes, and alignment with India’s digital governance goals.
⚙️ FAQs
1. Is Aadhaar OTP mandatory for updating address?
No—address updates (from PAN/Aadhaar) don’t require OTP; you’ll get an email confirmation
2. Can I use a bank mobile instead?
Yes—if updating via bank-linked mobile/email, OTP will be sent there .
3. My Aadhaar mobile is outdated. What should I do?
Visit a UIDAI enrolment centre to update your mobile before OTP-based updates.
4. What if OTP fails repeatedly?
Try after 15 minutes, or switch to DSC, net-banking, or EVC via bank/demat.
5. Will this delay ITR refunds?
If contact details are outdated, OTP verification failure may cause refund delays—so update early.
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