Have you ever worried about someone else filing a tax return in your name? In today's digital world, identity theft is a serious threat, and tax-related identity theft can cause immense headaches and delays. Thankfully, the IRS offers a powerful tool to combat this: the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This six-digit number acts as a secret key, known only to you and the IRS, that helps verify your identity when you file your tax return, making it significantly harder for criminals to file fraudulent returns using your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
This lengthy guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting your IRS Identity Protection PIN, step-by-step. Let's dive in and take control of your tax security!
Understanding the IRS Identity Protection PIN
Before we get into the "how-to," let's clarify what an IP PIN is and why it's so important.
- What is it? An IP PIN is a unique, six-digit number issued by the IRS. It's a proactive measure designed to prevent identity thieves from using your SSN or ITIN to file a fraudulent federal income tax return.
- How does it work? When you file your tax return, either electronically or on paper, you must include your current year's IP PIN. If the IP PIN doesn't match the one on file with the IRS, or if it's missing when required, your return will be rejected (e-filed) or significantly delayed (paper-filed) while the IRS verifies your identity. This prevents fraudulent returns from being processed.
- Who needs it? While originally for victims of tax-related identity theft, the IRS has expanded the IP PIN program. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can now opt-in to receive an IP PIN as a proactive step to protect themselves, even if they haven't been a victim of identity theft. If you have been a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has resolved your account issues, they will automatically assign you an IP PIN each year.
- Annual Renewal: It's crucial to remember that your IP PIN is valid for one calendar year only. For security reasons, the IRS generates new IP PINs at the beginning of each calendar year. So, you'll need to retrieve a new one annually.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Your IRS Identity Protection PIN
There are a few ways to obtain your IP PIN, with the online method being the fastest and most recommended. We'll cover all the options in detail.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Best Method
Before you start, consider your situation.
- Are you a confirmed victim of identity theft? If the IRS has already informed you that you are a victim and has resolved your tax account issues, you will likely automatically receive a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN in the mail each year. You generally don't need to apply, but you will need to retrieve it if you don't receive the notice or lose it.
- Are you proactively seeking an IP PIN? This guide is primarily for you!
- Do you have an IRS Online Account? This is the easiest and fastest method. If not, creating one is your first hurdle.
- Is your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) below certain thresholds? This matters for the mail-in application option. For individuals, your AGI on your last filed return must be below $84,000, and for married filing jointly, it must be below $168,000 (these figures can change, so always check the latest IRS guidelines).
- Do you have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)? This is a fundamental requirement for anyone seeking an IP PIN.
Step 2: The Easiest Way - Using Your IRS Online Account (Highly Recommended!)
This is by far the quickest and most efficient way to get your IP PIN. If you don't have an IRS Online Account, you'll need to create one first.
Sub-step 2.1: Creating or Logging into Your IRS Online Account
- Visit the IRS Website: Open your web browser and go to the official IRS website: www.irs.gov.
- Navigate to Online Account: Look for a link or button that says "Your Online Account," "Sign In," or "Create Account." It's usually prominently displayed.
- Log In or Register:
- If you already have an account: Enter your username and password to log in. You may need to go through a two-factor authentication process (e.g., a code sent to your phone).
- If you don't have an account: Click on "Create Account" or "Register."
- Identity Verification is Key: The IRS uses a robust identity verification process for creating an online account. This usually involves:
- Providing personal information (SSN/ITIN, date of birth, filing status).
- Answering knowledge-based authentication questions about your credit history or past financial accounts (e.g., types of loans you've had, old addresses).
- Having access to an email address and a mobile phone number to receive verification codes.
- Be prepared to answer these questions accurately. If you fail too many times, you may be locked out and have to use alternative methods.
- Identity Verification is Key: The IRS uses a robust identity verification process for creating an online account. This usually involves:
Sub-step 2.2: Requesting Your IP PIN from Your Profile
- Access Your Profile: Once logged into your IRS Online Account, navigate to your "Profile" or "Tax Records" section.
- Locate the IP PIN Option: Look for an option related to "Identity Protection PIN" or "Get an IP PIN."
- Request Your PIN: Follow the on-screen prompts to request your IP PIN. The IRS typically allows for two enrollment options:
- Continuous enrollment: You remain in the program for the current and future years.
- One-time enrollment: You are in the program for the current calendar year and will be automatically opted out at the end of the year. For ongoing protection, continuous enrollment is recommended.
- View and Save Your IP PIN: Your current IP PIN will be displayed on the screen. Write it down immediately and store it in a secure place! You will need this six-digit number when you file your federal tax return.
- Important Note for Dependents: While you can get your own IP PIN through your online account, retrieving a minor dependent's IP PIN online isn't possible. For dependents, you may need to call the IRS (800-908-4490) or make an in-person appointment (see Step 4).
Step 3: Alternative Method - Applying by Mail (Form 15227)
If you are unable to create an IRS Online Account or prefer not to, and your AGI meets the criteria, you may be able to apply by mail using Form 15227.
Sub-step 3.1: Checking Eligibility for Form 15227
- You must have a valid SSN or ITIN.
- Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on your last filed return must be below $84,000 for individuals or $168,000 for married filing jointly.
- You must have access to a telephone.
Sub-step 3.2: Completing and Mailing Form 15227
- Download Form 15227: Go to www.irs.gov and search for "Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number." Download and print the form.
- Fill Out the Form Accurately: Provide all requested information, including your personal details, SSN/ITIN, and your current mailing address.
- Mail the Form: Send the completed Form 15227 to the address specified in the form's instructions.
- Telephone Verification: The IRS will use the telephone number you provided on Form 15227 to call you and verify your identity. Be sure the phone number is current and that you answer calls from unknown numbers during this period.
- Receive Your IP PIN by Mail: Once your identity is verified, you will receive your IP PIN via U.S. Postal Service, typically within four to six weeks. If you successfully use this method, you will then receive your IP PIN annually through the mail.
Step 4: Last Resort - In-Person Authentication at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
If you cannot verify your identity online or through the Form 15227 process, or if you are ineligible to file Form 15227 (e.g., your AGI is too high), your final option is an in-person visit to a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
Sub-step 4.1: Scheduling an Appointment
- Find a TAC: Use the IRS's "Taxpayer Assistance Center Locator" tool on www.irs.gov to find the TAC closest to you.
- Schedule Your Appointment: Call the TAC directly or the IRS appointment line (typically 844-545-5640) to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are generally not accepted for identity verification.
Sub-step 4.2: What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Current Government-Issued Picture Identification: This is essential (e.g., driver's license, state ID card, passport).
- Another Identification Document: Bring a second form of ID to further prove your identity.
- Social Security Card or ITIN Assignment Letter: Proof of your SSN or ITIN.
- Any Relevant Tax Documents: While not always required, bringing copies of your most recent tax returns can be helpful.
- For a Dependent's IP PIN: If you are seeking an IP PIN for a minor dependent, you will need to bring your own photo ID, a government-issued ID for the child (like a birth certificate), and proof of residency for the child (such as a medical or school record).
Sub-step 4.3: Receiving Your IP PIN
- After successfully verifying your identity at the TAC, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to your address of record, usually within three weeks. Like the Form 15227 method, you will then receive your IP PIN annually via mail.
After You Get Your IP PIN: Important Considerations
- Protect Your IP PIN: Treat your IP PIN like your SSN. Do not share it with anyone except your trusted tax professional when they are preparing your return.
- The IRS Will NEVER Ask for Your IP PIN via Phone, Email, or Text: Be highly suspicious of any communication claiming to be from the IRS asking for your IP PIN. These are scams.
- Enter it Correctly: When filing your tax return, make sure to enter the six-digit IP PIN precisely where prompted by your tax software or provide it accurately to your tax preparer. An incorrect or missing IP PIN will lead to your return being rejected or significantly delayed.
- Applies to All Federal Tax Returns Filed During the Year: Your IP PIN is valid for the entire calendar year for which it's issued. This means you must use it on any federal tax returns you file during that period, including prior year returns, amended returns (Forms 1040-X), or any other forms that require it (e.g., Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS, and for dependents, Form 2441 and Schedule EIC).
- Spouses and Dependents: If both you and your spouse have IP PINs, both must be entered on a joint return. If a dependent on your return has an IP PIN, that IP PIN must also be entered on the relevant forms (like Form 1040 series, Form 2441, and Schedule EIC).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help solidify your understanding:
How to know if I need an IRS Identity Protection PIN?
You need an IP PIN if you are a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS has assigned you one, or if you wish to proactively protect yourself from tax fraud by opting into the IP PIN program.
How to retrieve a lost or forgotten IRS Identity Protection PIN?
The fastest way is through your IRS Online Account. Log in to your account, go to your profile, and you can view your current IP PIN. If you can't access your online account, you may call the IRS IP PIN specialized assistance line at 800-908-4490 (M-F, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. local time).
How to apply for an IP PIN for my dependent?
You generally cannot get a minor dependent's IP PIN through your online account. You may need to call the IRS IP PIN specialized assistance line at 800-908-4490 or schedule an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center, bringing appropriate identification for yourself and the dependent.
How to use the IP PIN when filing my tax return?
If filing electronically, your tax software will prompt you to enter the six-digit IP PIN. If filing a paper return, there will be a designated box on Forms 1040, 1040-SR, etc., to enter your IP PIN. Ensure it is entered correctly for each taxpayer on the return who has one.
How to know if my IP PIN is still valid?
Your IP PIN is valid for one calendar year. A new IP PIN is generated at the beginning of each calendar year. If you obtained it online, you will need to log into your IRS Online Account to view the new IP PIN for the current filing season. If you get it by mail (e.g., from prior identity theft), you'll receive a new CP01A Notice annually.
How to opt out of the IRS IP PIN program?
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.
How to get an IP PIN if I don't have an internet connection?
If you don't have internet access, you can apply by mail using Form 15227 if you meet the AGI requirements, or schedule an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center.
How to verify my identity if I fail the online questions?
If you're unable to pass the online identity verification, you'll need to use an alternative method such as submitting Form 15227 by mail (if eligible) or scheduling an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center.
How to ensure my IP PIN is not misused?
Never share your IP PIN with anyone except your trusted tax professional when they are actively preparing your return. The IRS will never initiate contact (via phone, email, or text) to ask for your IP PIN.
How to handle a rejected e-filed return due to an incorrect or missing IP PIN?
If your e-filed return is rejected because of an IP PIN error, you will need to obtain the correct IP PIN (either your own, your spouse's, or a dependent's) and then resubmit your return with the accurate IP PIN. Do not file a paper return if your e-file was rejected for an IP PIN error until you have the correct IP PIN.
