We've all been there: you're diligently working through your tax return in TurboTax, feeling confident and almost done, when suddenly, a prompt appears asking for your IRS PIN. A moment of panic sets in. "My what now?" you might think. Don't worry, you're not alone! This isn't your debit card PIN, nor is it something you set up casually. This is a crucial security measure, and knowing how to find it, or retrieve it, is key to a smooth tax filing experience.
Let's conquer this tax season challenge together! Are you ready to dive in and find that elusive IRS PIN?
What Exactly Is an IRS PIN (Identity Protection PIN)?
Before we go searching, let's understand what we're looking for. The IRS PIN you're likely encountering is officially known as an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This is a six-digit number that the IRS assigns to eligible taxpayers. Its primary purpose is to prevent someone else from filing a fraudulent tax return using your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Think of it as an extra layer of digital security for your tax filing.
It's important to note: A new IP PIN is generated each year for those enrolled in the program. This isn't a static number you set once and forget.
Step 1: Determine If You Even Have an IRS IP PIN
This is the most critical first step. Many people assume they need an IP PIN when they actually don't.
Sub-heading: Who is issued an IP PIN automatically?
- Victims of Identity Theft: If you've been a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft, the IRS will automatically enroll you in the IP PIN program and mail you a new IP PIN each year (typically between December and January) via Notice CP01A.
- Opt-in Program Participants: The IRS has expanded its IP PIN program. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can proactively opt-in to receive an IP PIN as a preventative measure against identity theft. If you've previously opted in, you'll be issued a new one annually.
Sub-heading: Who doesn't automatically have an IP PIN?
If you haven't been a victim of identity theft, and you haven't intentionally opted into the program, it's highly likely you do not have an IP PIN. In this case, when TurboTax asks for it, it might be prompting for a different type of PIN (like a self-select PIN, which is a 5-digit number you choose yourself for e-filing), or it's a general prompt that doesn't apply to your situation.
Take a moment to recall: Have you ever received a letter from the IRS with a six-digit number labeled "IP PIN" or "Identity Protection PIN"? If not, you might not need to actively "find" one because it doesn't exist for you.
Step 2: The Easiest Way to Find Your IP PIN: The IRS Online Account
For most people who do have an IP PIN, the most efficient way to retrieve it is directly from the IRS.
Sub-heading: Accessing Your IRS Online Account
- Go to the IRS Website: Open your web browser and navigate to the official IRS website: www.irs.gov.
- Locate "Online Account": Look for a link or section that says "Online Account" or "Your Account." This is usually prominently displayed.
- Sign In or Create an Account:
- If you already have an IRS Online Account: Simply sign in using your existing credentials. You might need to go through a multi-factor authentication process (e.g., a code sent to your phone or email).
- If you don't have an IRS Online Account: You'll need to create one. This process involves a robust identity verification procedure, which might include:
- Providing personal information (SSN/ITIN, date of birth, filing status).
- Uploading pictures of your government-issued ID (like a driver's license or passport).
- Taking a selfie or participating in a quick video call with an ID.me representative (ID.me is the third-party service the IRS uses for identity verification).
- Be prepared for this to take 10-15 minutes or even longer if you need to create an ID.me account first.
Sub-heading: Retrieving Your IP PIN Within Your Account
Once you are successfully logged into your IRS Online Account:
- Navigate to Your Profile: Look for a link or tab that says "Profile" or "Tax Records."
- Find the IP PIN Section: Scroll down until you see a section specifically dedicated to "Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)."
- View Your Current IP PIN: Your current year's six-digit IP PIN should be displayed there. You can usually print or save this page for your records.
- Pro Tip: Once you have your IP PIN, write it down immediately and store it in a secure place with your other important tax documents. This will save you a lot of hassle next year!
Step 3: What to Do If You Can't Access Your IRS Online Account
Sometimes, for various reasons, accessing the IRS Online Account isn't feasible. Don't despair! There are alternative methods, though they generally take longer.
Sub-heading: Requesting an IP PIN via Form 15227
This option is available if your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on your last filed federal income tax return is below certain thresholds ($84,000 for individuals, $168,000 for joint filers) and you can't establish an online account.
- Download Form 15227: Search for "Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number" on the IRS website (www.irs.gov/forms).
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the form accurately with your personal information.
- Submit the Form: Mail the completed form to the IRS address specified in the instructions.
- Identity Validation Call: The IRS will call you at the telephone number provided on the form to validate your identity.
- Receive PIN by Mail: After successful verification, you will receive your IP PIN in the mail within approximately four to six weeks.
Sub-heading: In-Person at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
If the online method and Form 15227 aren't viable for you, you can make an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
- Find a Local TAC: Use the "Taxpayer Assistance Center Locator" tool on the IRS website to find the nearest TAC.
- Schedule an Appointment: Appointments are generally required. Call the IRS appointment line to set one up.
- Bring Required Documents: Bring a current government-issued photo identification document (e.g., driver's license, passport) and another identification document to prove your identity.
- Identity Verification: The IRS will verify your identity at the meeting.
- Receive PIN by Mail: Your IP PIN will be mailed to you, typically within three weeks after the in-person verification.
Step 4: Entering Your IP PIN in TurboTax
Once you have your 6-digit IP PIN, entering it into TurboTax is straightforward. The exact steps might vary slightly depending on whether you're using TurboTax Online or the desktop software, and which version you have, but the general process is similar.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Online Users
- Log In and Open Your Return: Sign in to your TurboTax account and open the tax return you are currently working on.
- Use the Search Function: Look for a "Search" bar or magnifying glass icon (usually in the upper right corner).
- Search for "IP PIN": Type "IP PIN" (without quotes) into the search box.
- Jump to IP PIN Section: You should see an option like "Jump to IP PIN" or "Identity Protection PIN." Click on it.
- Answer the Prompt: TurboTax will likely ask, "Did you or any of your dependents get an IP PIN from the IRS for this year's taxes?" Select "Yes."
- Enter the 6-Digit PIN: Carefully enter the six-digit IP PIN in the designated field. If your spouse or any dependents also have an IP PIN, you'll need to enter theirs as well.
- Continue: Follow the prompts to proceed with your tax return.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Desktop Software Users
- Open Your Return: Launch your TurboTax desktop software and open your tax return.
- Navigate to Federal Taxes: Click on "Federal Taxes" (or "Personal" if using Home & Business edition).
- Go to Other Tax Situations: Select "Other Tax Situations."
- Scroll to Other Return Info: Scroll down to find the section titled "Other Return Info."
- Find Identity Protection PIN: Click "Start" or "Revisit" next to "Identity Protection PIN."
- Enter the 6-Digit PIN: Enter your IP PIN when prompted.
- Continue: Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Important Note on 5-Digit vs. 6-Digit PINs: Some users get confused between the 6-digit IRS IP PIN and the 5-digit "self-select PIN" that TurboTax might ask you to create as part of the e-filing process. The self-select PIN is any 5 digits you choose (except all zeros) to electronically sign your return if you don't use your prior year AGI. The IP PIN is always a 6-digit number provided by the IRS. Make sure you're entering the correct one in the correct field!
Step 5: Double-Check and File!
Before you hit that "File" button, take a moment to review everything, especially if you had trouble with the IP PIN.
- Review Your Return: Go through your entire tax return one last time to ensure accuracy.
- Confirm IP PIN Entry: Verify that the correct 6-digit IP PIN (and any for your spouse or dependents, if applicable) has been entered into TurboTax. An incorrect or missing IP PIN will result in your e-filed return being rejected by the IRS, causing delays.
- Submit Your Return: Once confident, proceed with the e-filing process through TurboTax.
Congratulations! By following these steps, you've successfully navigated the process of finding and using your IRS IP PIN in TurboTax, ensuring a more secure and accurate tax filing.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to obtain an IRS IP PIN if I'm a victim of identity theft?
If the IRS has identified you as a victim of tax-related identity theft, they will automatically mail you a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN each year, typically between December and January. You don't need to apply for it.
How to apply for an IRS IP PIN if I haven't been a victim of identity theft?
You can proactively apply for an IP PIN through the IRS Get An IP PIN tool on their website (www.irs.gov/ippin). You'll need to create or log into your IRS Online Account and go through their identity verification process.
How to know if my spouse or dependents also need an IP PIN?
Each individual on a tax return (taxpayer, spouse, and dependents) who has been issued an IP PIN must have it entered when filing. If your spouse or dependent was a victim of identity theft or opted into the program, they will have their own unique IP PIN.
How to find my prior year's AGI if I need it for identity verification with the IRS?
You can find your prior year's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on your previous year's tax return (Form 1040, line 11). If you don't have a copy, you can get a Tax Return Transcript from the IRS through their "Get Transcript Online" tool or by mail.
How to tell the difference between an IRS IP PIN and a self-select PIN in TurboTax?
An IRS IP PIN is a 6-digit number provided by the IRS for identity protection. A self-select PIN is a 5-digit number you choose yourself in TurboTax to electronically sign your return if you're not using your prior year AGI for verification. TurboTax will clearly specify which PIN it's asking for.
How to re-enter my IP PIN in TurboTax if I made a mistake?
In TurboTax Online, you can typically go back to the "IP PIN" section by using the search bar and typing "IP PIN." In the desktop software, navigate to "Federal Taxes" -> "Other Tax Situations" -> "Other Return Info" -> "Identity Protection PIN" to re-enter or edit it.
How to get a new IP PIN if I lost the letter from the IRS?
The quickest way is to access your IRS Online Account. Your current year's IP PIN will be displayed there. If you cannot access the online account, you may be able to request a new one by calling the IRS IP PIN Helpline at 800-908-4490.
How to update my address with the IRS to receive my IP PIN by mail?
You can update your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822, Change of Address, or Form 8822-B, Change of Address — Business. It's crucial your address is current with the IRS for mailed communications.
How to contact the IRS for IP PIN assistance if I have exhausted all other options?
If you've tried the online tools and phone numbers for general assistance, and still can't resolve your IP PIN issue, you can call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490.
How to ensure my IP PIN is securely stored?
Always treat your IP PIN like a sensitive financial document. Do not share it with anyone unless they are your trusted tax preparer who needs it for filing. Store it in a secure, private location, like a locked filing cabinet or a password-protected digital document.
