How to Pay Income Tax Online in India: A Step-by-Step Guide  

Paying income tax on time is essential to avoid Interest and remain compliant with Indian tax laws. The Income Tax Department provides a secure and user-friendly online tax payment facility called e-Pay Tax. Whether you need to pay Advance Tax, Self-Assessment Tax, or other tax dues, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making an online payment through the official Income Tax portal.  

Step 1: Visit the Income Tax e-Filing Portal  

1. Open your web browser and go to the official Income Tax e-Filing website:    
   🔗 https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
2. Click on the “e-Pay Tax” option on the homepage.  

Step 2: Enter Your PAN and Mobile Number  

1. Enter your PAN (Permanent Account Number).
2. Confirm your PAN by entering it again.
3. Provide your mobile number for OTP verification.  

Step 3: OTP Verification  

1. You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number.
2. Enter the OTP and submit to proceed.  

Step 4: Verify Your Name  

• After OTP verification, your name (as per PAN records) will be displayed.
• Confirm that the details are correct before proceeding.  

Step 5: Select the Type of Tax Payment  

1. Click on "Income Tax" from the available payment options.
2. Choose the correct Assessment Year (AY):
   • If you are paying tax for Financial Year (FY) 2023-24, select Assessment Year (AY) 2024-25.
3. Select the Type of Payment:
   • Advance Tax (100): If paying tax before the end of the financial year.
   • Self-Assessment Tax: If paying tax after filing your income tax return.
4. Enter the Tax Amount you wish to pay.  

Step 6: Select the Bank and Payment Mode  

1. Choose your bank from the list of available options.
2. Select a payment method:
   • Net Banking (Recommended for instant payment)
   • UPI (For quick mobile-based payments)
   • Debit/Credit Cards (Limited bank support)
   • NEFT/RTGS (For offline bank payments)  

✅ Verify the payment details before proceeding:  

• Assessment Year (AY)
• Financial Year (FY)
• Tax Applicable (Major Head):Income Tax (Other than Companies) (0021)
• Type of Payment (Minor Head):Advance Tax / Self-Assessment Tax
• Bank Name and Payment Amount  

Step 7: Complete the Payment  

1. You will be redirected to your bank’s payment gateway.
2. Log in using your Net Banking credentials (User ID and Password).
3. Authorize and confirm the payment.  

Step 8: Download the Challan as Proof of Payment  

1. After successful payment, you will receive a Challan Identification Number (CIN).
2. Download the challan and save it as proof of tax payment.
3. Keep this document for filing your Income Tax Return (ITR).  

Common Issues & Solutions  

🔹 OTP Not Received? Wait for a few minutes or request a resend. Ensure your mobile number is registered with your PAN.    
🔹 Payment Failed? Check your internet connection, use a different payment mode, or contact your bank.    
🔹 Wrong Assessment Year Selected? Payments cannot be modified once made. You may need to consult a tax expert or file a rectification request.    
🔹 Need to Verify the Payment? Log in to the Income Tax portal and check under "Payment History".  

Official Support Links  

For any assistance, visit:       
📞 Income Tax Help Desk: https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/contact-us  
💻 Taxpayer Services Portal:     https://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/