Are you ready to take control of your tax identity and protect yourself from potential fraud? Getting an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) from the IRS is a crucial step in safeguarding your financial information. This six-digit number, known only to you and the IRS, acts as a vital key, confirming your identity when you file your tax return and preventing others from using your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file fraudulent returns.
Whether you've been a victim of identity theft or simply want to add an extra layer of security, obtaining an IP PIN is a smart move. Let's walk through the process step-by-step to ensure a smooth and secure tax season for you.
Step 1: Understand What an IP PIN Is and Why You Need It
Before diving into the "how-to," let's clarify what an IP PIN is and why it's so important.
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What it is: An IP PIN is a unique, six-digit number issued by the IRS. It's designed to protect your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from misuse on fraudulent federal income tax returns. Think of it as an extra password for your tax filing.
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Why it's crucial: In an age of increasing cybercrime and identity theft, your personal information is a valuable target. If a scammer gets hold of your SSN/ITIN, they could file a fake tax return in your name and claim a fraudulent refund. Having an IP PIN makes it incredibly difficult for them to do this, as the IRS will reject any e-filed return that doesn't include your valid IP PIN. Even if you file a paper return, the absence of an expected IP PIN will trigger additional scrutiny and delays.
- Did you know? The IRS initially offered the IP PIN primarily to confirmed victims of tax-related identity theft. However, recognizing the growing need for broader protection, the program has been expanded, allowing anyone with an SSN or ITIN to voluntarily opt-in to receive an IP PIN. This means you don't have to be a victim of identity theft to benefit from this added security!
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| How To Get Ip Pin From Irs |
Step 2: Choose Your Method: Online, Form, or In-Person
The IRS offers a few ways to get your IP PIN. The fastest and most recommended method is online, but alternatives are available if online access isn't feasible for you.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Fastest Way – IRS Online Account (Recommended)
This is by far the quickest and most efficient way to get your IP PIN. It often provides your IP PIN immediately after successful identity verification.
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
Sub-heading 2.2: Alternate Method – Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number
If you can't create an IRS Online Account or successfully verify your identity online, or if your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on your last filed return is below certain thresholds ($84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing joint), you might be eligible to apply via mail. Be aware that this method takes significantly longer.
Sub-heading 2.3: Last Resort – In-Person Appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
If the online and mail options don't work for you, or if you don't meet the AGI requirements for Form 15227, an in-person visit is an option.
Step 3: The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your IP PIN Online
Let's focus on the most popular and efficient method: getting your IP PIN through your IRS Online Account.
Sub-heading 3.1: Creating or Logging into Your IRS Online Account
- Navigate to the IRS Website: Open your web browser and go to the official IRS website: www.irs.gov.
- Find "Get an Identity Protection PIN": On the IRS homepage, search for "Get an Identity Protection PIN" or "IP PIN." You can often find a direct link or navigate through "Identity Theft & Fraud" sections.
- Access the Online Tool: Click on the link that takes you to the "Get an IP PIN" online tool.
- Log In or Create an Account:
- If you already have an IRS Online Account: Simply log in using your credentials.
- If you don't have an account: You will need to create one. This involves a rigorous identity verification process to ensure your security. Be prepared for the following:
- ID.me Verification: The IRS uses a third-party service called ID.me for secure identity verification. You'll be redirected to ID.me to create an account or log in.
- Documentation: You'll typically need to upload images of a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license, state ID, or passport).
- Facial Recognition/Video Chat: You might be required to take a selfie or participate in a brief video call with an ID.me representative to further verify your identity. Ensure you have a smartphone or webcam for this step.
Sub-heading 3.2: Retrieving Your IP PIN Once Logged In
- Access Your Profile: Once successfully logged into your IRS Online Account, look for your "Profile" page or a similar section.
- Locate the IP PIN Section: Within your profile, there should be a dedicated section for "Identity Protection PIN" or "IP PIN."
- Request/View Your IP PIN: Click on the option to request or view your IP PIN. If your identity verification was successful, your six-digit IP PIN will usually be displayed immediately on the screen.
- Important: Save Your IP PIN: As soon as your IP PIN is displayed, write it down, print the page, or save it securely. This number is crucial for filing your taxes.
- Note: Once you've opted in and obtained your IP PIN online, the IRS generally will not mail you a CP01A Notice with your IP PIN each year. You will need to retrieve it online annually.
Step 4: Alternative Method: Applying via Form 15227 (if online isn't an option)
If you are unable to use the online tool, or if your AGI falls below the specified thresholds ($84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing joint), you may be able to use Form 15227.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
- Download Form 15227: Go to www.irs.gov and search for "Form 15227." Download and print the form.
- Complete the Form: Fill out all required information accurately, including your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and your contact information.
- Mail the Form: Send the completed Form 15227 to the IRS address provided in the form's instructions.
- Phone Verification: 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 tax history.
- Receive IP PIN by Mail: Once your identity is verified over the phone, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to your address of record. This typically takes four to six weeks. After this initial application, you will usually receive your IP PIN annually through the mail.
Step 5: Last Resort: In-Person Application at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
If neither the online nor Form 15227 methods work for you, you can try an in-person appointment.
- Locate a TAC: Use the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Locator tool on www.irs.gov or call 844-545-5640 to find your nearest Taxpayer Assistance Center and schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are generally not accepted for IP PIN requests.
- Gather Documents: When you go to your appointment, bring one current government-issued picture identification document (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport) and another identification document to further prove your identity.
- Identity Verification: An IRS representative will verify your identity during the meeting.
- Receive IP PIN by Mail: After successful verification, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to you. This process typically takes about three weeks. You will then receive your IP PIN annually through the mail.
Step 6: Using Your IP PIN When Filing Your Taxes
Once you have your IP PIN, it's essential to use it correctly.
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- For Electronic Returns: Your tax software or tax preparer will prompt you to enter the six-digit IP PIN. Every taxpayer on the return who has an IP PIN (primary, spouse, and dependents) must have their IP PIN entered. If an IP PIN is missing or incorrect, your e-filed return will be rejected.
- For Paper Returns: If you're filing a paper return, you'll enter the IP PIN in the designated box on your Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR, or 1040-SS.
Step 7: Annual Renewal and Safeguarding Your IP PIN
Your IP PIN is only valid for one calendar year. A new IP PIN is generated at the beginning of each calendar year.
- Online Opt-Ins: If you obtained your IP PIN online, you will need to log back into your IRS Online Account around early January each year to retrieve your new IP PIN. You will typically not receive a CP01A notice in the mail.
- Mail/In-Person Applicants: If you applied via Form 15227 or in-person at a TAC, you will generally receive a new CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN in the mail between December and January each year.
- Safeguard Your PIN:
- Do not share your IP PIN with anyone except the IRS or 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 your IP PIN securely with your other important tax records.
By following these steps, you can successfully obtain and use your IRS IP PIN, adding a critical layer of protection to your tax identity and peace of mind during tax season.
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if I already have an IP PIN from IRS?
Quick Answer: The fastest way is to log into your IRS Online Account. Your IP PIN will be displayed under your profile if you have one. Alternatively, if you were a victim of identity theft, the IRS would have mailed you a CP01A Notice with your IP PIN.
How to retrieve my IP PIN if I lost the CP01A notice?
Quick Answer: The quickest way to retrieve a lost IP PIN is through your IRS Online Account. Log in, go to your profile, and your current IP PIN should be available there. If you cannot access your online account, you may need to call the IRS IP PIN help line at 800-908-4490.
How to get an IP PIN for a minor dependent?
Quick Answer: A minor dependent's IP PIN cannot be retrieved online. You will need to call the IRS at 800-908-4490 to request a minor dependent's IP PIN.
How to use my IP PIN when filing with tax software?
Quick Answer: Your tax software will typically have a specific field or prompt for you to enter your six-digit IP PIN during the e-filing process. Ensure you enter it accurately for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents who have one.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
How to get an IP PIN if I live abroad?
Quick Answer: Individuals living abroad with an SSN or ITIN can also get an IP PIN by following the same steps as U.S. residents, primarily through the IRS Online Account or by contacting the IRS if online verification is not possible.
How to opt-out of the IP PIN program?
Quick Answer: If you enrolled in the IP PIN program online and have not been a victim of tax-related identity theft, you can usually opt out via your IRS Online Account. However, if you were automatically assigned an IP PIN due to identity theft, you generally cannot opt out.
How to get a new IP PIN if my e-filed return was rejected due to an incorrect or missing IP PIN?
Quick Answer: If your e-filed return was rejected due to an IP PIN error, you'll need to retrieve the correct IP PIN by logging into your IRS Online Account. Do not file a Form 15227 for a new IP PIN in this situation.
How to update my address with the IRS to receive my IP PIN?
Quick Answer: You can update your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822, Change of Address, or by using your new address when you file your tax return. You can also notify the IRS by phone or in person, but be prepared to verify your identity.
How to know if the IRS automatically assigned me an IP PIN?
Quick Answer: If the IRS has identified you as a victim of tax-related identity theft, they will automatically enroll you in the IP PIN program and mail you a CP01A Notice with your IP PIN annually.
How to contact the IRS for IP PIN assistance?
Quick Answer: For specialized assistance with IP PINs, you can call the IRS at 800-908-4490 (Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time). International users can call 267-941-1000 (not toll-free) between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern time.
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