Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

What is Digital Signature Certificate?

The full form of DSC is Digital Signature Certificate. The digital signature certificate is an electronic form of the physical certificate. It is used as the identity proof of an individual, to gain services, or to digitally sign documents.

In other words, the digital signature certificate is the online or digital version of the individual's physical signature. It is used to verify the income tax return and the authenticity of the individual. 

Types of Digital Signature Certificate

There are three categories of the DSC, which are given below:

• Class 1: This is the certificate that is issued to private subscribers and individuals.
• Class 2: This is the certificate that is issued for both individuals and business personnel.
• Class 3: This is the certificate that is issued to both organizations and individuals.

Registration of DSC with the Income Tax Department

Follow the steps to register and use DSC for e-filing of the income tax returns:

Step 1: Log in to the official website of the Income Tax by using your ID and password.
Step 2: In the profile settings, click on the 'Register Digital Signature Certificate'.
Step 3: Click on the link that appears and download the DSC management Utility.
Step 4: Click on 'Register/Reset Password' using DSC.
Step 5: Insert the token of the DSC in the USB port of the laptop.
Step 6: Enter the e-filing ID of the user and the PAN of the DSC.
Step 7: Now, select the type of DSC and then generate the file of signature.
Step 8: Attach and submit this file of signature by going back to the e-filing portal.

You will get a confirmation email on your registered Email ID on successful registration.