Protecting Your Tax Identity with an IP PIN
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a crucial six-digit number assigned by the IRS. It’s designed to prevent someone else from fraudulently filing a tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This PIN is known only to you and the IRS, providing an extra layer of security when you file your taxes, whether electronically or on paper. Even if you don’t typically have a filing requirement, an IP PIN can still be valuable in protecting your tax account from identity theft.
If you are a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your account issues, you’ll receive a CP01A Notice with a new IP PIN each year. The IRS also offers the option to proactively obtain an IP PIN to boost your protection against potential tax-related identity theft. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN, including individuals living abroad, is eligible to apply for an IP PIN.
How to Get an IP PIN
The fastest way to obtain an IP PIN is through the IRS’s Online Account. If you don’t already have an account on IRS.gov, you’ll need to register and verify your identity. Spouses and eligible dependents can also obtain an IP PIN if they successfully complete the identity verification process. Once you’ve opted in and acquired an IP PIN online, you will need to retrieve it online each year, as a CP01A Notice will not be mailed.
- The IP PIN is typically available in your online account from mid-January to mid-November.
Alternatives to Online Enrollment
If you’re unable to create an online account, there are alternative methods for requesting an IP PIN. However, these alternative methods may take longer.
- Filing Form 15227: If your adjusted gross income (AGI) from your last filed tax return was under $84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for those married filing jointly and you cannot establish an online account, you can use Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (PDF). To use this form, you must have:
- A valid SSN or ITIN.
- AGI below the specified limits as stated above.
- Access to a telephone.
The IRS will use the phone number provided on the form to verify your identity via a phone call. Once your identity is confirmed, you’ll receive your IP PIN by mail, typically within four to six weeks and annually thereafter.
- In-Person Authentication: If you can’t verify your identity online or through Form 15227, or if you’re ineligible to file Form 15227, you can schedule an in-person appointment at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center. Bring one current government-issued photo ID and another form of identification to verify your identity. Following verification, you will receive your IP PIN in the mail, usually within three weeks, and annually thereafter.
Important Information About IP PINs
- An IP PIN is valid only for a single calendar year.
- A new IP PIN is generated for your account each year.
- Your current year IP PIN will be displayed when you log into your online account.
- The IP PIN must be used when filing any federal tax return during the year, including prior year returns.
Using Your IP PIN
When filing your taxes, enter the six-digit IP PIN when prompted by your tax software, or provide it to your tax professional when they prepare your return. The IP PIN is specifically for use on Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS. Correct IP PINs are essential to prevent rejection of or delays in processing both electronic and paper tax returns.
- Important: Never share your IP PIN with anyone. It should be known only to your tax professional, and only when you’re ready to sign and submit your return. The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN via unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts, so be wary of any such communications.
Lost IP PINs
If you’ve lost your IP PIN, review the guidance on How to Retrieve Your IP PIN for details. Do not file a Form 15227 to apply for a new IP PIN.
