DSC Full Form, Benefits, and How to Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate
Updated: 18 hours ago
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is required to submit different types of online forms to the Indian government. Emails, other digitally transmitted papers, and electronic documents are all authenticated with it. They use encryption software to improve security. Businesses primarily employ DSCs to securely certify digital signatures on online documents and validate the signed copy. In this article, we will explain the concept of DSC in detail.
Table of Content
Steps to get DSC from Code Solutions
DSC Full Form: What is a Digital Signature Certificate?
Certified by the Certifying Authorities (CA), a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) refers to a secure digital key that certifies the identity of the holder. To generate the signatures, digital signatures require public key encryptions. A DSC includes the user's name, pin code, country, email address, certificate issuance date, and certifying authority name. The DSCs typically have a one- to two-year validity period. They can, however, be extended before the end of the term.
Classes of DSCs
Depending on the requirement, the type of DSC one needs to apply for is determined by the applicant's characteristics and the reason for obtaining the certificate. The certifying authorities provide three different kinds of digital signature certificates.
Class 1 Certificates: These are provided to private subscribers and are utilised to verify the user's full name and email account in the database of the certifying authority.
Class 2 Certificates: These are provided to the signatories experts in e-filing forms on the government portal, specifically the websites for income tax, GST, and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). However, the Controller of Certifying Authority has ordered that Class 2 Certificates be discontinued as of January 1, 2021, and stated that Class 3 Certificates be issued in their place.
Class 3 Certificates: In India, these certificates are used for online participation and purchasing in online tenders and e-auctions. A Class 3 digital signature certificate is necessary for producers who want to take part in these tenders. Everybody who wants to sign Registrar of Companies (ROC) forms, customs filing, income tax forms, patent and copyright filing, GST applications, and other government documents online must obtain Class 3 Certificates because CCA ceased Class 2 Certificates on January 1, 2021.
Types of DSCs
Sign: Authenticate Certificates can be used to verify documents. They can be attached to PDFs, files, or documentation for filing income tax returns, GST returns, MCA online forms, and other online applications. The certificate authorises the user's identity and assures the copy's integrity. It guarantees that the information provided is accurate and that the document has not been tampered with.
Encrypt: The Encrypt Certificate encrypts documents, files, and other sensitive and confidential data. DSC encryption is used for private information and papers. It facilitates the encryption and uploading of documents to web portals for organisations and sectors. Additionally, this certificate safely protects and transmits personal information. Encrypt DSC is apt for private files such as legal documents, e-tender filing documents, and e-commerce documents.
Encrypt and Sign: The Sign and Encrypt Certificate can be utilised for both encryption and signing. Typically, government forms, applications, and documents are filed through it. It works well for users who need to maintain and verify the confidentiality of the information shared.
Advantages of Digital Signature Certificate
Authentication: Assists in verifying the owner's personal information when doing business online.
Saved money and time: You sign the PDF files and submit them much more quickly than physically signing original documents and scanning them to send via email. Conducting or authorising a business does not require an in-person presence of a DSC holder.
Data integrity: Digitally signed documents are safe and secure since they cannot be modified or updated after they are electronically signed. These certifications are frequently requested by government organisations to cross-check and validate business transactions.
Document authenticity: When a document is digitally signed, the recipient can be sure that the signer is genuine. They don't have to worry about their records being fake.
Certified Authorities for Issuance of DSCs
The licensed certifying agencies listed below are authorised to grant the certificate for digital signatures:
GNFC
Safescrypt
Capricorn CA
The IDRBT
Indian Air Force Capricorn
NSDL e-Gov C
e Mudhra CA
Verasys CA
CDAC CA
Importance of DSCs
Any person or organisation that has their finances audited must use a digital signature to file their income tax return. Additionally, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs has stipulated that businesses only use digital signatures when submitting all reports, applications, and forms. A corporation can only be registered under GST if the GST application is verified by a digital signature. All applications, modifications, and other relevant forms must be filed with a digital signature.
Steps to Get a Digital Signature Certificate
Step 1: Login to the DSC Class 3 registration/application page on the homepage of any CA website, and fill in the form.
Step 2: The following information must be included on the DSC application form:
The DSC class.
Legitimacy.
Type: Sign and encrypt or only sign.
Name and contact information of the applicant.
Home address.
GST number and proof document identity information.
Proclamation.
Document serving as identification verification.
Use this document as proof of address.
Officer of verification.
Payment information.
Step 3: After that, e-sign the declaration and upload a recent photo of yourself.
Step 4: Upload the required files. You may use Aadhaar eKYC-based authentication if the CAs can offer it. No supporting documents need to be uploaded if you choose this option. Original evidence of support and copies of the original documents that have been self-attested can also be provided directly to the CAs.
Step 5: Pay for the DSC's problem-solving and send in the paperwork.
Step 6: CAs will electronically present the DSC after confirming your application and supporting documentation.
Documents Required for DSC Application
Passport-sized photo
Address proof
Steps to Download a Digital Signature Certificate
Each CA has a different approach for downloading a digital signature certificate. A few CAs' DSC download processes are shown below.
Steps to get DSC from e-Mudhra
Connect the USB token to your PC.
After choosing Open Files, select ePass2003India.setup.exe.
Click "OK" after selecting your chosen language. Click the "Install" button after tapping the "Private CSP" option to set up ePass2003. Click "Finish" when it's finished installing.
The DSC can be downloaded by creating a new pin on a USB token.
Use the Windows search bar to search for the installed "ePass2003 token manager.”
To set a fresh pin, click the change user pin button after entering the default pin.
Go to the eMudhra website, select "Download Certificate," and then opt for "click."
Insert the challenge code and application number sent to the registered mobile phone. Click the "Agree and Download" button after entering the token password.
Steps to get DSC from Capricorn
Go to the website for Capricorn.
The "Download DSC" button should be clicked.
Click on Submit after entering the following information: the applicant's address contains the Order ID pin code. The retrieved key is sent to the registered phone number.
After choosing FIPS Token, hit the "Download" button.
Steps to get DSC from Pantasign
Go to the website of Pantasign.
Click the "Downloads" button.
Click the "download" button to initiate downloading the utility.
After downloading the app, extract it. Once the process of extraction is complete, open the PantaCharge folder.
Click "Get Started" after loading PantaCharge.exe.
Enter the application number and passcode sent to the registered email address and mobile number.
After selecting "Login," pick "Download Certificate."
To download DSC, enter the token password and click the "OK" button.
Steps to get DSC from Code Solutions
Connect the digital token to the computer.
Access the DSC Download Utility.
Enter the passcode and customer ID sent to the registered cell phone number.
Submit the Token Password after choosing the Token Type.
Press "Submit" to move on.
Click "Download DSC" after setting the DSC Type.
Steps to get DSC from IDSign
Go to the website of IDSign.
After choosing "Repository," select "Application Links."
Under the "IDSign Token Utility" section, click "Download."
The downloaded folder should be decrypted.
Go to the folder containing IDSignTokenUtility.exe.
IDSignTokenUtility.exe has to be clicked.
Add the mobile number and reference number.
After entering the token password, pick "Download Certificate."
Steps to Check the Validity of a DSC
Start the USB token tools.
Press the "Login" button.
Enter the password to obtain a token.
Click on the name of your certificate.
The certificate will become accessible. Select the tab marked "Details."
Your certificate's information, including its validity information, will be revealed.
Conclusion
Tax filing has become considerably simpler with digitisation. A digital signature is essential to verify electronic documents, prove an individual's identity, and e-file income tax forms online. The IT Act of 2000 has made digital signatures as important as traditional ones. It is recognised as a safe method of submitting income tax returns (ITRs).
FAQ
Q1. What is the digital signature certificate for ITR?
The digital version of a paper or physical certificate is known as a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). For specific online or computer-based purposes, DSC functions as identification documentation for a person or organisation.
Q2. How many days to get DSC?
A DSC may be provided by Certifying Authorities in a period ranging from three to seven days.
Q3. How long is DSC valid?
The DSCs generally have a one-year or two-year validity period.
Q4. Who issues a digital signature?
The digital signature is provided by an authorised Certifying Authority (CA). A person given the right to issue a digital signature certificate under Section 24 of the Indian IT Act 2000 qualifies as a Certifying Authority (CA).
Q5. Is DSC compulsory?
A digital signature is required for specialists and individuals earning Rs. 25 lakhs or more yearly under Section 44AB of the Income Tax Act.
Q6. Who is required to use a digital signature for filing an income tax return?
A digital signature is mandatory for professionals and individuals earning Rs. 25 lakh or more annually, per Section 44AB of the Income Tax Act. However, companies with annual sales of more than Rs. 1 crore are required to submit their ITR electronically.
Q7. Do I need to e-verify an ITR when I file using DSC?
There's no need to e-verify it again if you filed your income tax return with a digital signature certificate attached. In other situations, e-verification can be handled using one of the methods listed. This is a comprehensive process that can be referred to here.
Q8. Which class of DSC can be used for the e-filing of ITR?
Class 2 Digital Signatures are required to electronically file papers with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the Income Tax Department, and other government agencies.
Q9. Can digital signatures be misused?
The likelihood of a digital signature being misused is low.
Q10. How is a digital signature created?
A series of unique letters is used to represent numeric values in the complicated process of generating a digital signature.
Q11. What does DSC stand for, and why is it important?
DSC stands for Digital Signature Certificate, a secure digital key used for online authentication and document signing.
Q12. How is a DSC different from a regular electronic signature?
A DSC is more secure, issued by a certifying authority, and legally recognized under the IT Act, unlike basic electronic signatures.
Q13. Can a DSC be used on mobile devices?
Yes, DSCs can be used on mobile devices through specific apps or cloud-based solutions, depending on compatibility.
Q14. Are there different types of DSCs for various purposes?
Yes, Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 DSCs are available for different uses, from basic authentication to high-security transactions.
Q15. Can I use one DSC for multiple businesses or purposes?
No, a separate DSC may be required for different entities or specific uses, as per compliance requirements.
Q16. Is it mandatory to renew a DSC?
Yes, DSCs have a validity period (usually 1-3 years) and must be renewed before expiration to avoid disruption.
Q17. Can individuals obtain a DSC, or is it only for businesses?
Both individuals and businesses can obtain a DSC for various purposes like tax filings, tender submissions, and secure transactions.
Q18. How is a DSC stored for secure use?
DSCs are typically stored on USB tokens or hardware security modules to prevent unauthorized access.
Q19. Can a DSC be used for international transactions?
Yes, but its acceptance depends on the regulations of the country involved in the transaction.
Q20. Is a DSC necessary for filing income tax returns in India?
A DSC is mandatory for certain categories, like companies and firms, but optional for individual taxpayers.
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