A tax season without its share of minor anxieties is rare, and one common snag many taxpayers encounter is a missing or forgotten IP PIN. An Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (
So, you're staring at your tax software or paper forms, and that crucial six-digit number is nowhere to be found. Don't panic! The IRS has established clear pathways for retrieving your IP PIN. While online retrieval is often the quickest method, sometimes a good old-fashioned phone call is necessary. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to call the IRS for your IP PIN, what to expect, and some vital tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Before You Dial – Have You Checked All Your Other Options?
Before you even think about picking up the phone and potentially enduring a wait time, let's make sure you've exhausted the easier options. Many taxpayers can retrieve their IP PIN online instantly.
Sub-heading: The Power of Your Online IRS Account
The IRS strongly encourages taxpayers to use their online account to retrieve their current IP PIN. If you don't have one, it's worth creating one, as it offers a wealth of information beyond just your IP PIN.
- Action: Go to the IRS "Get an IP PIN" tool on the official IRS website (irs.gov/ippin).
- What to expect:
- If you already have an IRS online account, you'll simply log in. Your IP PIN is usually available on your "Profile" page.
- If you don't have an account, you'll be prompted to create one. This involves a rigorous identity verification process, often utilizing a third-party service like ID.me. Be prepared to provide personal information, potentially upload documents (like your driver's license), and even participate in a video call or take a selfie for verification. While this might seem like a lot, it's a one-time process for account creation and grants you access to various IRS online services.
Important Note: Dependent IP PINs cannot be retrieved online. If you're looking for an IP PIN for a minor dependent, you will need to call the IRS.
Sub-heading: Did You Receive a CP01A Notice?
The IRS typically mails a CP01A notice with your new IP PIN each year, usually between December and January. Check your mail thoroughly, including any "junk" or "miscellaneous" piles. This letter is the official notification of your IP PIN for the current tax season.
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
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| How To Call Irs For Ip Pin |
Step 2: Preparing for Your Call to the IRS
If the online method didn't work for you, or if you need a dependent's IP PIN, calling the IRS is your next step. Be prepared, as this can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Sub-heading: The Right Number to Call
The dedicated phone number for IP PIN inquiries is the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit.
- Action: Dial 1-800-908-4490.
- Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time (Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific Time).
International Callers: If you're calling from outside the U.S., you can dial +1-267-941-1000 (this is not toll-free).
Sub-heading: Gather Your Information (Crucial for Verification!)
The IRS will need to verify your identity thoroughly before providing any sensitive information like your IP PIN. Having these documents and details readily available will speed up the call significantly.
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your full name and date of birth.
- Your current mailing address and any previous addresses used for tax filing.
- A copy of your most recently filed tax return (Form 1040, 1040-SR, etc.). They may ask for specific line items from this return, such as your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
- A valid form of identification, such as your driver's license or state ID, even if you just need to reference information from it.
- For a dependent's IP PIN: Have the dependent's SSN, name, date of birth, and a copy of the tax return on which they were claimed.
Sub-heading: Find a Quiet Place and Be Patient
IRS phone lines can experience high call volumes, especially during tax season. Find a quiet spot where you won't be interrupted, and be prepared for potential hold times. Patience is truly a virtue here.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Step 3: Making the Call and Verifying Your Identity
Once you dial the number, you'll navigate through the automated system before speaking to a representative.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Automated System
- Action: Listen carefully to the prompts. The automated system might offer options that seem relevant, but generally, you'll want to select options that lead you to speak with a representative about identity theft or IP PIN issues.
- Tip: If you're unsure, try pressing '0' or saying "representative" (if voice-activated) to bypass some menus, though this isn't always effective.
Sub-heading: Speaking with an IRS Assistor
- Action: When you connect with an IRS assistor, clearly state that you are calling to retrieve your Identity Protection PIN.
- Verification Process: The assistor will begin the identity verification process. This is where having all your gathered information becomes critical. They will ask you a series of questions to confirm your identity. These questions are designed to be personal and secure, ensuring they are speaking to the legitimate taxpayer.
- Be ready to provide your SSN, date of birth, current address, and specific details from your tax return (e.g., AGI from a specific tax year).
- Do not get frustrated if they ask many questions. This is for your protection against identity theft.
Step 4: Receiving Your IP PIN (and What to Expect Next)
Once your identity is successfully verified, the assistor will explain how you will receive your IP PIN.
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Sub-heading: How You'll Receive Your IP PIN
- Action: The IRS will not give you your IP PIN over the phone. Instead, they will mail your IP PIN to the address on file with the IRS.
- Timing: Expect to receive your IP PIN by mail within 21 days.
Sub-heading: What to Do Once You Receive It
- Action: Once your IP PIN arrives, keep it in a safe and secure place with your other important tax documents.
- Immediate Use: You will need this IP PIN to file your federal tax return for the current year. Ensure you enter it correctly in your tax software or on your paper form.
- Remember: A new IP PIN is issued each year, so this one is only valid for the current tax filing season. You'll need to retrieve a new one next year.
Step 5: Troubleshooting and Important Considerations
Sometimes, things don't go as planned. Here are a few additional points to keep in mind.
Sub-heading: If You Can't Verify Your Identity Over the Phone
Tip: Review key points when done.
In some cases, the IRS may be unable to verify your identity over the phone. This can happen if your information doesn't match their records precisely or if there are other security concerns.
- Action: If this occurs, the assistor may recommend that you schedule an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) for in-person identity verification.
- Scheduling a TAC Appointment: You can find the closest TAC using the IRS website's "Taxpayer Assistance Locator" tool or by calling 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment. Be aware that TACs operate by appointment only for many services.
Sub-heading: Beware of Scams!
The IRS will never call you out of the blue demanding your IP PIN or other personal financial information. They also won't threaten you with immediate arrest or legal action. If you receive such a call, it's a scam.
- Action: Do not provide any information. Hang up immediately and report the scam to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 1-800-366-4484.
Sub-heading: What if Your Return is Rejected for an Incorrect IP PIN?
If you attempt to e-file your return and it's rejected with an error code related to an incorrect or missing IP PIN (e.g., IND-180-01, IND-996), it means the IP PIN entered doesn't match the IRS records for the SSN or ITIN on the return.
- Action: You will need to retrieve the correct IP PIN (either your own, your spouse's, or a dependent's, as indicated by the reject code) before you can successfully e-file.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you further navigate the IP PIN process:
How to find out if I need an IP PIN? You need an IP PIN if you were a victim of identity theft related to your taxes, or if you voluntarily opted into the IP PIN program through your IRS online account or by filing Form 15227. The IRS also mails a CP01A notice each year to those assigned an IP PIN.
How to retrieve my IP PIN online? Go to the IRS "Get an IP PIN" tool on IRS.gov. Log in to your IRS online account (or create one if you don't have one). Your IP PIN will be displayed on your profile page.
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
How to get a new IP PIN if I lost my CP01A notice? You can retrieve it online through your IRS account, or by calling the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490 to have it reissued by mail.
How to get an IP PIN for my dependent? Dependent IP PINs cannot be retrieved online. You must call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490 to request it.
How to know if the IRS automatically assigned me an IP PIN? The IRS typically assigns an IP PIN to victims of tax-related identity theft and mails them a CP01A notice each year. If your e-filed return is rejected for a missing or incorrect IP PIN, it's also a strong indicator that you've been assigned one.
How to enroll in the IP PIN program voluntarily? You can opt into the IP PIN program by creating or logging into your IRS online account and selecting the option to enroll in the IP PIN program from your profile.
How to use my IP PIN when filing my tax return? When using tax software, there will be a specific field to enter your six-digit IP PIN. If filing a paper return, write your IP PIN in the designated space on Form 1040 (or other 1040 series forms).
How to tell the difference between an IP PIN and a Self-Select PIN? An IP PIN is a 6-digit number assigned by the IRS to prevent identity theft. A Self-Select PIN is a 5-digit number you choose yourself as an electronic signature when e-filing your return. They are not the same.
How to contact the IRS if I am overseas and need my IP PIN? International callers can reach the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at +1-267-941-1000 (note: this is not a toll-free number).
How to protect myself from IP PIN scams? The IRS will never call, email, or text you requesting your IP PIN or threatening legal action if you don't provide it. Be suspicious of unsolicited communications asking for this information. If in doubt, hang up and call the official IRS number directly.
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