E-stamp paper
Also called: e-stamp certificate, e-stamping
A computer-generated stamp certificate, bought online or at an authorised centre, that replaces physical stamp paper for paying stamp duty in the States that have adopted e-stamping.
E-stamp paper is the electronic way to pay stamp duty. Instead of buying a printed stamp paper of a fixed value, you pay the exact duty and receive a printed certificate with a unique certificate number, the names of the parties, the purpose of the document and the amount paid. The document itself is then printed on or attached to that certificate.
How it works
Each State decides whether to use e-stamping and through which agency. In many States the Stock Holding Corporation of India acts as the central record keeper, and anyone can check a certificate number on the State's verification website. Some States also allow stamp duty to be paid online through the State treasury or registration portal.
- Pay the correct amount for the document and State, not a round figure.
- Make sure the names and the description of the document on the certificate match the document.
- Keep the certificate with the original signed document.
Why it matters
The stamp duty rules do not change with the method of payment: the Indian Stamp Act, 1899 and the State stamp law still decide how much is due. E-stamping mainly removes the risk of fake or reused stamp paper, which was a long-standing problem with physical paper.
Check before you buy
An e-stamp certificate bought in one State is meant for documents governed by that State's stamp law. For property, the duty is paid in the State where the property is.
Documents such as a rent agreement or an indemnity bond are commonly printed on e-stamp paper.
Checked against the sources below on 7 November 2026 IST. General information about Indian law, not legal advice for your case.