ITR filing: How to pre-validate bank accounts

By Nandini Das

CNBC-TV18.com

Published July 11, 2024

When submitting an ITR, efficiency is essential. Pre-validating bank accounts is an often-ignored step that can help speed the process along with expediting tax refunds. Let’s take a loot at how to pre-validate bank accounts:

 Why pre-validate?

Pre-validating a bank account entails attaching it to your PAN (Permanent Account Number) and confirming it with the Income Tax Department. Once the bank account is pre-validated, tax returns are handled more quickly, simplifying future transactions with the Income Tax Department.

 Steps to pre-validate

Step 1: Log in to e-filling portal

Step 2: Go to ‘Profile Settings’

 Steps to pre-validate

Step 3: Select ‘Pre-validate Your Bank Account’ option

 Steps to pre-validate

Step 4: Enter bank account number, IFSC code and other required details accurately ensuring it matches with those linked to PAN card

 Steps to pre-validate

Step 5: Submit the request for validation.

 Steps to pre-validate

Confirmation will be received once the request is processed.

Double-check all details and after approved, verify the status on the site to ensure it’s active.

Tips for smooth processing

The status may be verified by logging into the e-filling portal. Go to ‘My profile’ and ‘My Bank Account’ can be selected from the left pane. The screen will show the list of bank accounts that are pre-validated and the ones you have selected for receiving income tax refunds..

During tax season pre-validated accounts can help speed up the refund process while also reducing the difficulties associated with inaccurate bank date.