The Income Tax Department has introduced a new security feature on its e-Filing portal—Aadhaar-PAN OTP validation, now made active for all users. This enhancement is designed to improve identity verification, reduce fraudulent filings, and streamline the PAN-Aadhaar linking process. By using One-Time Password (OTP) authentication sent to the Aadhaar-registered mobile number, users can now validate their PAN-Aadhaar linkage with greater ease and enhanced security.

This newly activated system allows taxpayers to complete the PAN-Aadhaar validation step without visiting physical centers or uploading documents. Upon initiating the linking or validation request on the portal, the user will receive an OTP on the mobile number that is registered with their Aadhaar. Successful entry of this OTP completes the biometric-based digital confirmation, eliminating manual errors and delays. The feature is also useful during ITR filing, profile updates, and e-verification of returns, where Aadhaar-based authentication is required.

The department has emphasized the need for taxpayers to ensure that their Aadhaar is updated with the correct mobile number, as the OTP will not be delivered to unregistered or outdated numbers. Users are encouraged to check their mobile linkage through the UIDAI portal if needed. This measure reflects the government’s continued focus on digital governance and secure taxpayer services, reinforcing Aadhaar-PAN integration as a foundation for efficient and fraud-resistant tax administration.