Memo – What Is An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)?

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Without that IP PIN, identity thieves cannot file a fraudulent return in your name.

The IP PIN is known only to you and the IRS. It helps verify your identity when you file your electronic or paper tax return. Even though you may not have a filing requirement, an IP PIN still protects your account.

If you are a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your tax account issues, they will mail you a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN each year.

If you don’t already have an IP PIN, you may get an IP PIN as a proactive step to protect yourself from tax-related identity theft.

If you want to request an IP PIN, please note:

• You must pass an identity verification process.
• Spouses and dependents are eligible for an IP PIN if they can pass the identity verification process.
• Once you have opted in and obtained an IP PIN online, you will need to retrieve your IP PIN online each calendar year as a CP01A Notice will not be mailed.

How to get an IP PIN

The fastest way to receive an IP PIN is by using the online Get an IP PIN tool. If you wish to get an IP PIN and you don’t already have an account on IRS.gov, you must register to validate your identity. The IP PIN tool is generally available starting in mid-January through mid-November. Click here to get started.

Get an IP PIN 

Alternatives to the online tool

If you want an IP PIN but can’t successfully validate your identity through the Get an IP PIN tool, there are alternatives. Please note using an alternative method to the online tool takes longer for an IP PIN to be assigned to you.

Important Information about IP PINs

• An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year.
• A new IP PIN is generated each year for your account.
• Logging back into the Get an IP PIN tool, will display your current IP PIN.
• An IP PIN must be used when filing any federal tax returns during the year including prior year returns.  
• FAQs about the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN)

Using an IP PIN to File

Enter the six-digit IP PIN when prompted by your tax software product or provide it to your trusted tax professional preparing your tax return. The IP PIN is used only on Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS.

Correct IP PINs must be entered on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays. An incorrect or missing IP PIN will result in the rejection of your e-filed return or a delay of your paper return until it can be verified.

Don’t reveal your IP PIN to anyone. It should be known only to your tax professional and only when you are ready to sign and submit your return. The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN. Phone calls, emails or texts asking for your IP PIN are scams.

Lost IP PINs

Review Retrieve Your IP PIN for details. Do not file a Form 15227 to apply for a new IP PIN.

Questions? Concerns? Call me on (732) 673-0510.