Hey there! Ever found yourself staring at your tax software, ready to file, only to realize you're missing that crucial piece of the puzzle: your IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)? Or perhaps you're trying to file a previous year's tax return and can't recall the IP PIN from that specific year? You're not alone! This happens to many taxpayers, especially with the IP PIN being a new, annually generated security measure. But don't worry, getting your previous year's IP PIN is absolutely doable, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step. Let's get that tax return filed!
Understanding Your IRS IP PIN
Before we dive into retrieval, let's quickly clarify what an IP PIN is. An Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) is a six-digit number assigned by the IRS to eligible taxpayers to help prevent the misuse of their Social Security number
Important Note: An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year only. A new IP PIN is generated each year, usually in late December or early January. This means the IP PIN you used for last year's taxes won't be the same as the one for the current tax year. You'll need the specific IP PIN for the tax year you're trying to file.
 |
| How To Get Irs Pin For Previous Year |
How to Get Your IRS IP PIN for a Previous Year: A Step-by-Step Guide
The IRS has streamlined the process for retrieving your IP PIN, primarily through their online services. Here's how you can get yours for a previous year:
Step 1: Determine If You Were Issued an IP PIN for that Year
This is the very first and most critical step. Not everyone receives an IP PIN. You would have been issued one if:
- You were a victim of tax-related identity theft and the IRS provided you with an IP PIN.
- You voluntarily opted into the IP PIN program through the IRS website.
- You received a CP01A Notice from the IRS with your new IP PIN in the mail.
If you never received an IP PIN for the specific prior year you're trying to file, you generally don't need one to file that return, unless your e-filed return is rejected specifically because it's missing an IP PIN. In such a case, you'll need to follow the steps below to obtain one.
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
Step 2: Utilize the IRS Online Account (Most Recommended Method)
The IRS Online Account is your best friend when it comes to retrieving your IP PIN. This is the quickest and most efficient way to get your IP PIN for the current and previous years.
Sub-Step 2.1: Access or Create Your IRS Online Account
- Go to the Official IRS Website: Open your web browser and navigate to IRS.gov.
- Locate "Sign In" or "Your Account": Look for a "Sign In" or "Your Account" link, usually located prominently on the homepage. Click it.
- Log In or Create an Account:
- Existing Users: If you already have an IRS Online Account, enter your credentials to log in. You'll likely use a secure sign-in partner like ID.me.
- New Users: If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one. This process involves a rigorous identity verification process through ID.me. Be prepared to provide personal information, including your Social Security number, date of birth, and potentially upload documents (like a driver's license or state ID) and even perform a video selfie. This identity verification is crucial for security and can take some time to complete.
Sub-Step 2.2: Navigate to Your IP PIN
- Access Your Profile: Once logged into your IRS Online Account, look for a "Profile" or "Tax Records" section.
- Find the "Identity Protection PIN" Section: Within your profile, there should be a section specifically dedicated to your Identity Protection PIN.
- Retrieve Your IP PIN: In this section, you should be able to view your current year's IP PIN as well as previous year's IP PINs if you were issued them. The IP PIN will typically be displayed as a six-digit number. Make sure to note down the correct IP PIN for the specific tax year you are trying to file.
Self-Help Tip: The IRS website often has a "Get an IP PIN" tool directly linked from their IP PIN information page. This tool will usually redirect you to your online account for retrieval.
Step 3: Request Your IP PIN by Phone (Alternative Method)
If for some reason you are unable to access your IRS Online Account or retrieve your IP PIN online (e.g., technical difficulties, or you cannot complete the online identity verification), you can call the IRS to have your IP PIN reissued.
Sub-Step 3.1: Gather Necessary Information
Before you call, have the following information ready, as the IRS representative will need to verify your identity:
- Your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your date of birth.
- Your filing status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly).
- Your mailing address.
- Information from a previous year's tax return, such as adjusted gross income (AGI) or a tax return transcript. This helps them further confirm your identity.
Sub-Step 3.2: Contact the IRS
- Call the IRS IP PIN Assistance Line: Dial 800-908-4490.
- Business Hours: The specialized assistance line is typically available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time (Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific time).
- Identity Verification: An assistor will ask you a series of questions to verify your identity. Answer truthfully and accurately.
- IP PIN Reissuance: Once your identity is verified, the IRS will mail your IP PIN to your address of record within 21 days. Be aware that they generally cannot provide the IP PIN over the phone for security reasons.
Important Consideration: If you opted into the IP PIN program online after 2019, or if it's after October 14th and you haven't filed your current or prior year Forms 1040 or 1040-SS, there might be specific circumstances that prevent immediate phone reissuance. In such cases, the IRS representative will guide you on alternative steps.
Tip: Reading on mobile? Zoom in for better comfort.
Step 4: In-Person at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (Last Resort)
If both online and phone methods prove unsuccessful, you can make an appointment to visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) to request your IP PIN.
Sub-Step 4.1: Locate a TAC and Schedule an Appointment
- Use the Taxpayer Assistance Locator Tool: Visit the IRS website and use their Taxpayer Assistance Locator tool to find the TAC office closest to you.
- Call to Schedule an Appointment: Call 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment. You cannot just walk into a TAC; appointments are generally required for most services.
Sub-Step 4.2: Prepare for Your Visit
- Bring Proof of Identity: Bring multiple forms of identification, such as a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport) and your Social Security card.
- Bring Relevant Tax Documents: Bring copies of previous year's tax returns or other documents that can help confirm your identity.
- Explain Your Need: Clearly explain to the IRS representative that you need to retrieve your IP PIN for a previous tax year.
What to Do After You Have Your IP PIN
Once you have the correct IP PIN for the previous year you're filing:
 |
- E-filing: Your tax software or tax preparer will prompt you to enter the IP PIN. Make sure to enter it accurately. If you have a dependent who also received an IP PIN for that year, their IP PIN must also be entered on the return.
- Paper Filing: If you're mailing a paper return, the IP PIN should be entered in the designated box, usually near your signature line on Form 1040 (or 1040-SR, 1040-NR, 1040-SS).
Filing a return without the required IP PIN will result in the electronic return being rejected, or a paper return being reviewed for identity verification, which will significantly delay any refund due to you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, starting with "How to," along with their quick answers:
How to know if I need an IRS IP PIN for a previous year?
You need an IP PIN for a previous year if you were issued one (either voluntarily opted in, were a victim of identity theft, or received a CP01A notice) or if your e-filed return for that year is rejected specifically for a missing IP PIN.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
How to retrieve my IRS IP PIN if I lost the CP01A notice?
You can retrieve your IP PIN online through your IRS Online Account. If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one and verify your identity.
How to get an IP PIN for a minor dependent for a previous year?
Minor dependent IP PINs cannot be retrieved online. You will need to call the IRS at 800-908-4490 to have it reissued and mailed to you.
How to get an IRS IP PIN if I'm not a victim of identity theft?
You can opt into the IP PIN program voluntarily through your IRS Online Account. Once you opt in, you'll receive a new IP PIN each year.
How to file a previous year's tax return without an IP PIN if I can't retrieve it?
If you're unable to retrieve your IP PIN through online or phone methods, you can mail a paper tax return without it. However, this will trigger an identity verification process by the IRS, which will significantly delay your refund.
How to share my IP PIN with my tax preparer securely?
Only share your IP PIN directly with your trusted tax preparer. The IRS will never call, email, or text you to ask for your IP PIN.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
How to know which IP PIN to use if I'm filing multiple prior year returns?
Each IP PIN is specific to a calendar year. You must use the IP PIN that was valid for the calendar year in which the tax return you are filing was due. For example, if you're filing your 2023 tax return in 2025, you'd use the IP PIN issued for 2023.
How to get a new IP PIN each year?
If you've opted into the program or were a victim of identity theft, the IRS generally sends a new CP01A notice with your IP PIN by mail in December/January, or you can retrieve it from your IRS Online Account starting early January.
How to opt out of the IRS IP PIN program?
If you voluntarily joined the IP PIN program and have not been a victim of tax-related identity theft, you may be able to opt-out through your IRS Online Account by going to your profile and selecting the "Opt Out" option.
How to proceed if my e-filed return for a previous year is rejected due to an incorrect IP PIN?
If your e-filed return is rejected, double-check the IP PIN you entered against the one retrieved from your IRS Online Account for that specific tax year. Correct the PIN and re-submit your return. If issues persist, contact the IRS IP PIN assistance line.
 |
