1. What is static password?
Static password is a second password, in addition to the one you use to log in to the e-Filing portal. The difference between your e-Filing password and static password is as follows:
- You do not have to create your static password, it is system-generated (if you choose to use static password).
- Using static password is optional, e-Filing password is compulsory.
- Static password is a second authentication factor, your e-Filing password is the first.
2. How is generating a static password useful?
There are various methods you can use for two-factor authentication, such as Aadhaar OTP, EVC, net banking, DSC, or QR code. These methods generally depend on good network connectivity. Static passwords are useful when you have low mobile network and cannot receive an OTP on your mobile number.
3. Do I need to create my own static password?
No. Static passwords are system-generated, and will be emailed to you on your email ID registered with e-Filing.
4. What are the rules for generating static password?
- A total of 10 static passwords will be generated at a time and sent to your email ID registered with e-Filing.
- From the 10 passwords generated, only one password can be used for one login, and cannot be reused. You need to select another one from the list you generated.
- The static passwords sent to you will be active for 30 days from the date of generation.
- Once you generate your static password, the Generate Static Password button will be disabled till all 10 passwords are consumed, or till 30 days are over, whichever comes first. On the expiry of either 10 passwords or 30 days, you will need to generate static passwords again.
5. Can I generate static passwords multiple times, or is it a one-time activity?
Yes, you can generate static passwords multiple times, but only after expiration (after 30 days from generation) or consumption of all 10 static passwords.
6. I already have an e-Filing password. Why do I need a static password?
For enhanced security, logging in to the e-Filing portal involves two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is a method with an additional security layer (in addition to username and password). Static password is one of the two-factor authentication methods after entering your e-Filing user ID and password.
7. What comprises a static password for e-Filing?
The e-Filing static password is a randomly generated 6-digit alphanumeric code.
8. How will I know the status of my unused static passwords?
From the left menu of your e-Filing dashboard, click "Static Password". The system checks if you have generated any static passwords in the last 30 days, and if you have consumed all 10 static passwords. If you have any unused static passwords, a message appears specifying how many passwords you have left for the remaining days out of 30. Click "Resend Static Password", and you will receive an email with the list of unused static passwords on your e-Filing registered email ID.
9. Where do I need to enter the static password?
To use a static password, you need to have generated them previously. You will need to generate static passwords again in the following cases:
- if all 10 of your previously generated passwords are used up, or
- if 30 days have passed since you last generated static passwords (even if you have not used all 10)
The process to use the static passwords is as follows:
- Go to the e-Filing home page, enter your e-Filing user ID and password.
- On the Verify it's you page, click Try another method.
- On the next page, click Static Password, then click Continue.
- On the Static Password page, enter your valid static password in the textbox, and log in.
10. How do I know if a particular static password has been used earlier?
You can manually keep track of the passwords you have used, or go to your Dashboard > Static Password tab > Click Resend Static Password. You will receive an email with the list of unused static passwords on your e-Filing registered email ID.
11. Is it mandatory to use static passwords?
No. You may choose other methods to secure your login, such as Aadhaar OTP, EVC, net banking, DSC, or QR code. Static password is helpful if you are in an area with low or no mobile network connectivity, where you may find it difficult to receive OTP / EVC on your mobile.
