Digital signatures play a vital role in verifying the authenticity of documents shared online. If the document contains the signer digital signature, it indicates to the recipient that the document is genuine.
But how is the signer verified? This is where the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) becomes essential. It is of great importance in India as you can use it for online auctions, e-filing income tax returns (ITR), signing documents to PDF, and more.
It is admissible as evidence in court and is accepted by government agencies. It is mandatory for those who need to audit their accounts for ITR filing and many others. In addition, DSC eliminates the need to send hard copies.
Purpose of DSC
The digital signature mechanism represents; a high level of document authentication and confirms that the document has not been modified. The primary purposes of the DSC are listed as follows:
- Signer authentication
- Message authentication
- Non-repudiation
- Integrity
Types of DSC
There are several categories of digital signature certificates available, including:
- Class 1 Certificate
- Class 2 certificate
- Class 3 certificate
Benefits of DSC
Digital Signatures online offer a lot of advantages.
- Authentication
- Reduced Cost & Time
- Data Integrity
- Authenticity of Documents
Documents Required
The documents required to apply for Digital Signature Certificate are as follows:
Proof of Identity
- Applicant PAN Card
- Passport
- Driving License
- Post Office ID Card
- Bank Account Passbook comprising the photograph and signed by an applicant with attestation by the concerned Bank official
- A photo ID card issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs of Central/State Governments
- Any Government-issued photo ID card bearing the applicant signature
Proof of Addresses
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Driving License (DL)/Registration Certificate (RC)
- Water Bill (Not older than three months).
- Electricity Bill (Not older than 3 Months)
- Updated Bank Statements signed by the bank (Not older than 3 Months)
- Certificate of VAT Tax/Sales Tax/Service Tax registration
- Municipal Corporation / Property Tax Receipt
How to Apply for DSC
- Step 1: The primary step in obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate is to fill out the application form mentioning the User Type, Class of Certificate, etc.
- Step 2: Applicants are required to submit the relevant documents, such as proof of identity, proof of address, residential address, etc., and make the payment for the application.
- Step 3: After successfully verifying the documents, applicants can download the certificate using the credentials shared via email.
Why Alankit?
Alankit helps you conveniently link your signature with service delivery applications, enabling you to sign a document for various authentication and approval purposes digitally.
- Expertise Guidance
- Selection of Right DSC
- End-to-End Customer Support
- 24x7 Technical Support
- Availing DSC in 30 minutes