Protect Your Tax Return With an IRS IP PIN
By Vandana Patel, CPAPublished
An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that helps prevent someone from filing a fraudulent tax return in your name. Who can get one, and how to enroll.
Tax-related identity theft can occur when someone uses your Social Security number or ITIN to file a fraudulent tax return.
One way to help protect yourself is by getting an Identity Protection PIN, or IP PIN, from the IRS.
An IP PIN is a six-digit number known only to you and the IRS. It helps the IRS verify your identity when a federal tax return is filed using your Social Security number or ITIN.
Who Can Get an IP PIN?
You do not have to be a victim of identity theft.
Anyone with a valid Social Security number or ITIN who can verify their identity may enroll in the program. Parents and legal guardians may also request an IP PIN for their dependents.
How Do You Get One?
The fastest method is through your IRS Online Account. After signing in, you can request an IP PIN from the IP PIN section of your profile.
If you cannot verify your identity online, the IRS also provides alternative options, including Form 15227 for qualifying taxpayers or an in-person appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
For dependents under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must use one of the IRS alternative enrollment methods.
A New IP PIN Is Issued Each Year
An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year. The IRS generates a new six-digit number each year.
If you have an IP PIN, you must use the current PIN when filing federal tax returns during that calendar year, including prior-year returns filed during the year.
What Happens If You Forget It?
An incorrect or missing IP PIN can cause an electronically filed return to be rejected or delay the processing of a paper return.
Your current IP PIN can generally be retrieved through your IRS Online Account.
Keep Your IP PIN Private
Only provide your IP PIN to your trusted tax professional when you are ready to file your return.
The IRS states that it will never call, email, or text you asking for your IP PIN.
Should You Get an IP PIN?
An IP PIN is a simple additional safeguard against someone filing a fraudulent tax return using your identity. Because the program is available even to taxpayers who have never experienced identity theft, taxpayers concerned about protecting their tax information may want to consider enrolling.
The IRS publishes enrollment steps and answers to common questions on its "Get an Identity Protection PIN" page at IRS.gov. If you would like help deciding whether an IP PIN fits your situation, or how to use one when we prepare your return, please reach out.
This article is general information, not advice about your particular situation. Tax depends on your facts and on law that changes. Please speak with a qualified professional before acting on anything here. See our disclaimer.