Obtaining your IRS PIN number, officially known as an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), is a crucial step for safeguarding yourself against tax-related identity theft. This six-digit number acts as a secret key, known only to you and the IRS, that must be used when filing your federal tax return. Without it, your return could be rejected, leading to delays and potential complications.
Are you ready to take control of your tax security and prevent potential fraud? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide on how to obtain your IRS IP PIN!
Understanding the IRS IP PIN
Before we get into the "how-to," let's clarify what an IP PIN is and why it's so important.
An IP PIN is a unique, six-digit number issued by the IRS. Its primary purpose is to prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Think
Why do you need one? In an age where data breaches are unfortunately common, the IRS IP PIN provides an essential defense. If an identity thief somehow gets hold of your SSN, they could attempt to file a fraudulent tax return in your name to claim a refund. Having an IP PIN makes this virtually impossible, as they wouldn't have the required six-digit code to submit the return successfully.
It's important to note that the IP PIN is not the same as the five-digit Self-Select PIN you might use as an electronic signature when e-filing your taxes. The IP PIN is an additional security measure.
Key things to remember about the IP PIN:
- It's valid for only one calendar year. You'll need to obtain a new one each year for the upcoming tax season.
- It's required if you've been issued one. If the IRS assigned you an IP PIN (for example, if you were a victim of identity theft), you must use it to file your tax returns, including prior-year and amended returns. Your e-filed return will be rejected without it.
- It applies to both electronic and paper returns. Even if you mail your tax return, you still need to include your IP PIN.
- You cannot "opt out" of it once you've been assigned one by the IRS. However, if you proactively opt in to the program (more on that below), you may have the option to opt out later through your IRS Online Account.
Now, let's get to the practical steps!
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Need
Before you embark on the journey of obtaining an IP PIN, it's crucial to understand if you're eligible and if it's necessary for you.
Sub-heading 1.1: Are you a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft?
If you've been a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your account issues, you will typically receive a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN each year by mail, usually in December or early January. In this case, you don't need to apply for one; it will be sent to you. Keep an eye out for this official notice and store it in a secure place.
Sub-heading 1.2: Do you want to proactively protect yourself?
Even if you haven't been a victim of identity theft, you can choose to get an IP PIN as a proactive measure. This is highly recommended for anyone who wants an extra layer of security for their tax information.
Sub-heading 1.3: Check your previous year's filing status or rejection notices.
- Did you receive an IP PIN last year? If you had an IP PIN in a prior tax year but didn't receive a new one this year, you'll need to obtain it.
- Was your e-filed return rejected because your IP PIN was missing or incorrect? This is a clear indicator that you've been assigned an IP PIN and need to retrieve the correct one.
Step 2: Choose Your Method to Obtain the IP PIN
The IRS offers several ways to obtain your IP PIN, with the online method being the fastest and most preferred. Let's explore your options.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Fastest Way – Online (IRS Online Account)
This is by far the easiest and quickest method if you can verify your identity online.
Sub-sub-heading 2.1.1: Accessing the "Get an IP PIN" Tool
- Visit the official IRS website: Go to
IRS.gov - Navigate to the IP PIN section: Search for "Get an Identity Protection PIN" or "IP PIN." You can often find a direct link on the IRS homepage related to identity theft and scams.
- Log in or create an IRS Online Account: This is the core of the online process.
- If you already have an IRS Online Account: Simply log in. Your IP PIN should be available under your "Profile" page.
- If you don't have an IRS Online Account: You will need to create one. This involves a rigorous identity verification process to ensure your information is secure.
- You will likely need: Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), date of birth, filing status, and addresses from the past two years.
- Identity Verification (often through ID.me): This typically involves:
- Entering personal details.
- Providing a mobile phone number for a security code.
- Answering a series of security questions based on your financial history (e.g., specific amounts from past tax returns, loan information, property details). Make sure this information exactly matches what the IRS has on file.
- Potentially uploading images of a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) and taking a selfie for biometric verification.
Sub-sub-heading 2.1.2: Retrieving Your IP PIN
Once you successfully log in or create your account and pass the identity verification, your current IP PIN will be displayed on the screen.
- Immediately write down this six-digit number and store it in a secure place. You will need it to file your taxes.
- You will also typically be able to view and download your CP01A notice (which contains your IP PIN) through your Online Account.
Sub-heading 2.2: Alternatives if Online Access Isn't Possible
If you're unable to verify your identity online or prefer not to use the online method, the IRS provides alternative options. Be aware that these methods generally take longer.
Sub-sub-heading 2.2.1: By Mail (Form 15227 – Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number)
This option is available if you cannot establish an online account AND your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on your last filed return is below certain thresholds ($84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing jointly for 2024).
- Download Form 15227: Visit IRS.gov and search for "Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (PDF)."
- Complete the form: Fill out all required information accurately.
- Mail or Fax the form: Send the completed form to the IRS address or fax number provided in the instructions for Form 15227.
- Identity Verification by Phone: The IRS will use the telephone number you provided on the form to call you and validate your identity. Be prepared to answer security questions about your personal history and financial information.
- Receive your IP PIN by mail: Once your identity is verified, you will receive your IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service, usually within four to six weeks. This method means you will receive your IP PIN annually by mail thereafter.
Sub-sub-heading 2.2.2: In-Person (Taxpayer Assistance Center - TAC)
If you're unable to verify your identity online or through Form 15227, or you're ineligible for Form 15227, you can schedule an in-person appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
- Locate a TAC: Use the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Locator tool on IRS.gov or call 844-545-5640 to find the closest office and schedule an appointment.
- Gather required documents: When you go for your appointment, you must bring:
- One current government-issued picture identification document (e.g., driver's license, passport).
- Another identification document (e.g., birth certificate, Social Security card, credit card statement with your name).
- A copy of your most recent tax return.
- Any IRS notices or previous correspondence regarding your IP PIN.
- Identity Verification: An IRS employee will verify your identity face-to-face.
- Receive your IP PIN by mail: Once your identity is confirmed, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to you, usually within three weeks. You will then receive your IP PIN annually through the mail.
Sub-heading 2.3: Reissuing a Lost or Forgotten IP PIN
What if you were issued an IP PIN but lost it or didn't receive your new one in the mail? Don't panic!
- Online Account (Preferred): The fastest way to retrieve a lost or forgotten IP PIN is through your IRS Online Account. Log in, and your current IP PIN should be available on your "Profile" page.
- By Phone: If you cannot retrieve it online, you can call the IRS Identity Verification Service at 800-908-4490 for specialized assistance. They are available Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. An assistor will verify your identity and mail your IP PIN to your address of record within 21 days.
Step 3: Using Your IP PIN When Filing
Once you have your IP PIN, the final crucial step is to use it correctly when you file your tax return.
Sub-heading 3.1: For Electronic Returns (E-file)
When you use tax software or a tax professional to e-file your federal tax return, the software or preparer will prompt you to enter your six-digit IP PIN.
- Do not skip this step! If your IP PIN isn't entered correctly (or at all, if required), your e-filed return will be rejected.
- If you're unsure where to enter it in your software, look for a section related to "Identity Protection PIN" or "IP PIN," or consult your software's help resources.
Sub-heading 3.2: For Paper Returns
If you're filing a paper return, you'll need to manually enter your IP PIN on your Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR, or 1040-SS.
- Look for the designated box labeled "Identity Protection PIN" usually located to the right of your signature line (and your spouse's signature line if filing jointly).
- Ensure the IP PIN is clearly written in the correct spot. Incorrectly entered or missing IP PINs on paper returns can significantly delay processing.
Sub-heading 3.3: Important Considerations for Families
- Spouses and Dependents: If your spouse or any of your dependents have been issued an IP PIN, their IP PINs must also be included on your federal tax return if they are listed on it. This includes forms like Form 2441 (Child and Dependent Care Expenses) or Schedule EIC (Earned Income Credit). Each person with an IP PIN needs to have it entered with their respective SSN.
Step 4: Annual Renewal and Safekeeping
Your IP PIN is not a one-time thing. It's an annual security measure.
Sub-heading 4.1: Annual IP PIN Generation
A new IP PIN is generated for you each year. You will need to obtain this new PIN before you file your taxes for that specific year.
- If you're a confirmed victim of identity theft, you'll generally receive a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN by mail in late December or early January.
- If you opted into the online program, you'll need to log into your IRS Online Account around early January to retrieve your new IP PIN. You will not receive a CP01A notice by mail in this scenario.
Sub-heading 4.2: Safekeeping Your IP PIN
- Protect it! Treat your IP PIN like you would any other sensitive financial information.
- Do not share it with anyone except your trusted tax preparer. The IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for your IP PIN. Any such request is a scam.
- Store it securely with your other important tax documents. Consider a password manager, a locked filing cabinet, or a secure digital vault.
By following these steps, you can effectively obtain and manage your IRS IP PIN, adding a vital layer of protection to your tax filing process and peace of mind against identity theft.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get an IRS IP PIN online?
The fastest way is through your IRS Online Account. Go to IRS.gov, search for "Get an IP PIN," and either log in or create an account. You'll undergo identity verification, and your IP PIN will be displayed immediately.
How to get an IRS IP PIN by mail?
If you can't verify your identity online and your income is below certain thresholds, you can file Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. The IRS will call you to verify your identity, and then mail your IP PIN within 4-6 weeks.
How to get an IRS IP PIN by phone?
If you lost your IP PIN or didn't receive it, and can't retrieve it online, you can call the IRS Identity Verification Service at 800-908-4490 (Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time). After verifying your identity, they will mail your IP PIN to your address of record within 21 days.
How to find my existing IRS IP PIN?
The quickest way is to log into your IRS Online Account. Your current IP PIN will be available on your "Profile" page. If you were mailed a CP01A notice, your IP PIN is on page one of that notice.
How to apply for an IRS IP PIN for the first time?
You can apply online through the IRS Get an IP PIN tool by creating an IRS Online Account and completing identity verification. Alternatively, if eligible, you can mail Form 15227.
How to use my IRS IP PIN when filing taxes?
If you e-file, your tax software will prompt you to enter the six-digit IP PIN. If you paper file, write your IP PIN in the designated box next to your signature line on Form 1040 (or equivalent forms like 1040-SR, 1040-NR, 1040-SS).
How to get a new IRS IP PIN each year?
The IRS generates a new IP PIN annually. If you're a confirmed victim of identity theft, it's typically mailed to you. If you opted into the program online, you must retrieve your new IP PIN each year by logging into your IRS Online Account.
How to opt out of the IRS IP PIN program?
If you proactively opted into the IP PIN program (and were not assigned one due to identity theft), you may be able to opt out through your IRS Online Account. Check the "Profile" section of your account for an opt-out option. Note: If the IRS assigned you an IP PIN due to identity theft, you cannot opt out.
How to get an IP PIN for my spouse or dependent?
Each individual, including spouses and dependents, who needs an IP PIN must go through the identity verification process themselves to obtain one. Their individual IP PINs will then need to be included on the tax return where they are listed.
How to get help if I have trouble obtaining my IRS IP PIN?
If you face difficulties with the online process, consider filing Form 15227 by mail (if eligible) or scheduling an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can also call the IRS Identity Verification Service at 800-908-4490 for assistance.
