The IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN) helps the IRS verify your identity when you file a paper or electronic return. It is a six-digit number known only to you and the IRS. It prevents someone else from filing a return using your ITIN (taxpayer identification number) or your Social Security Number (SSN).
What you need to know about the IP Pin:
- A new IP PIN is issued annually by mail or online
- Never share your IP PIN with anyone except your tax professional
- Only taxpayers can obtain their IP PIN, not their tax professionals
- Anyone can opt in to the voluntary program.
- The IP PIN can be obtained on the IRS Get an IP PIN page or your online IRS account.
- You will need to pass a comprehensive process to identify your identity.
- If you already have an IP PIN, you can retrieve your current IP PIN with your online account
- You must use an alternative enrollment option if you or your dependent is under the age of 18.
Alternate Enrollment Options:
If you can’t establish an account online or are under the age of 18, there are other ways to enroll. It will take longer to assign you an IP PIN.
- Fill out and submit Form 15227, Application for IP PIN online, if you meet all requirements
- Make an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center
Why does the IRS encourage taxpayers to establish an IRS Online Account?
- Online account secures access to IRS account information
- Prevents fraudsters, hackers, and scammers from creating a false account
- Easily retrieve the current IP PIN
Key facts about the IP PIN:
- Valid for one calendar year
- A new PIN is generated every year for your account
- If you are a confirmed victim of tax identity theft, a CP01A Notice with a new IP PIN will be mailed to you every year
- If IP PIN is obtained online, you will retrieve it online every year
- Available mid-January to mid-November in your online account
- Will be displayed in the Profile tab in online account
- Must be used when filing the same year and previous year returns
Using an IP PIN when filing a return:
- Enter in tax software or provide to a tax professional when filing your taxes
- Used only for forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS
- Correct IP PIN must be entered on electronic, or paper returns to prevent rejections and holdups
Get your IP PIN reissued
Your IP PIN will be mailed to you within 21 days if you can verify your identity with a phone assistor.
- Call 800-908-4490, in the U.S., Mon. – Fri., 7 am to 7 pm
- Call 267-941-1000 if you are an international user, 6 am to 11 pm EST
The IP PIN will not be issued by mail if:
- If you opted online into the program after 2019
- If you haven’t filed the same year or previous year Forms 1040 or 1040-SS by October 14th.
“The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN. Phone calls, emails, or texts asking for your IP PIN are scams.” IRS.Gov
Supportive Links:
https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/avoid-fraud-and-tax-related-identity-theft-with-an-ip-pin
https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/retrieve-your-ip-pin
www.irs.gov/ippin