Power of Attorney for New Income Tax Portal (Website)

Here’s a helpful reply for your query on Power of Attorney (PoA) for the new Income Tax Portal:

1. Downloading PoA format from new Income Tax Website:
   It’s a known issue that sometimes the PoA document downloaded from the new portal appears as a 0 KB blank file. This is likely a technical glitch on the portal side. In the meantime, you can use the old format available from the previous website.

2. Validity of Old Format on New Portal:
   The old PoA format remains valid unless the Income Tax Department has explicitly notified a change in the format. Since no formal change has been communicated, you can continue to use the old format for appointing a Chartered Accountant as your authorized representative.

3. Witness Signatures Requirement:
   While the Income Tax Department doesn’t strictly mandate two witness signatures on the PoA, having them is a best practice. It adds credibility and helps avoid disputes about authenticity. Notarization on stamp paper is usually required, and notarization itself confirms the identity and execution of the document.

Summary:

• Use the old PoA format for now.

• Get the PoA notarized on appropriate stamp paper.

• It’s recommended (though not mandatory) to have signatures of two witnesses.

• Keep monitoring the Income Tax portal for any updates or fresh downloadable formats.