Avoid late fees: E-pay system lets taxpayers skip the lines and clear dues from home. Here's how to use it

A missed tax deadline can cost more than just money it can trigger penalties, legal notices, and a tangle of compliance issues. To make timely payments easier, the Income Tax Department has introduced a digital gateway that simplifies the process, slashes delays, and puts control back in the hands of taxpayers.

The ‘e-pay tax’ feature on the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal now enables individuals to pay their taxes quickly and securely. Whether using net banking, debit cards, NEFT/RTGS, or payment gateways, taxpayers can settle dues without visiting a bank or tax office.

How to use the e-pay tax feature

• Go to the official income tax e-filing website and click on the ‘e-pay tax’ link under Quick Links.
• Enter your PAN twice and your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
• Use the 6-digit OTP sent to your mobile to verify and proceed.
• Confirm your identity with the redacted PAN and name shown.
• Select the type of payment: Income Tax, Demand Payment, Equalisation Levy/STT/CTT, or Fees/Other Payments.
• Choose the financial year and applicable tax head.
• Enter the amount you want to pay.
• Pick your payment mode and bank.
• Review the summary page for details like category, financial year, and payment method.
• Click ‘Pay Now’ to complete the transaction.

This seamless digital route minimises errors, ensures safe payments, and helps taxpayers stay compliant with confidence.