IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) | Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: This material is prepared for informational purposes only and is not tax advice. Please speak with a tax professional or view the resources linked in the article to see how this information may apply to you.
Being in the tax industry, we’ve heard our fair share of stories of tax fraud and scams. While it’s impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, one effective way to significantly reduce the chance of someone filing a fraudulent tax return under your Social Security number is by enrolling in the IRS Identity Protection PIN program.
What is an IP PIN?
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a unique six-digit number that is issued by the IRS each year. This number is used to verify your identity when filing a tax return and prevents someone else from filing using your SSN or ITIN.
Who is eligible for an IP PIN?
Primary taxpayers, spouses, and dependents with an SSN or ITIN can request an IP PIN, including those living abroad.
However, you must pass an identity verification process to receive one.
How do I request an IP PIN?
If you’ve been a victim of tax-related identity theft, the IRS will automatically assign you an IP PIN. For everyone else, it’s a voluntary program with three ways to enroll:
Online: The easiest and fastest way to request an IP PIN is through your IRS online account. If you don’t have an account, you will need to create one and verify your identity. Once logged in, go to your profile, select the “Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)” section, and click the “Enroll in IP PIN” button.
Mail and telephone: If you can’t use the online tool and your adjusted gross income (AGI) is below $84,00 for individuals and $168,000 for married filing jointly, you can fill out Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number, and mail it to the IRS. You must have access to a phone since the IRS will call you to verify your identity.
In-person: If you don’t meet the income thresholds for Form 15226, you can schedule an appointment with a Taxpayer Assistance Center. You will need to bring a government-issued ID and a second form of ID, such as your Social Security card, health insurance card, or birth certificate.
When you enroll, you can choose to have a new IP PIN issued every year or just for the current year. Those who voluntarily opted in can choose to opt out through their online account.
Where do I find my IP PIN?
If you opted in online, you can retrieve your IP PIN by logging into your IRS online account. It is typically available starting mid-January. You can find it each year by going to your profile and selecting the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) section. There is an option to print the page so you can keep it with your tax documents. Your IP PIN will be shown in large bold text like this:
Your assigned IP PIN is [XXXXXX]
For those who were automatically enrolled due to identity theft or enrolled through the mail or in person, you will be mailed a CP01A notice from mid-December to early January.
Where do I enter my IP PIN on my tax return?
Where you enter your IP PIN depends on the method you use to file your tax return:
E-file: The location where you enter your IP PIN will depend on the software you use.
Tax professional: Simply provide your tax preparer with your IP PIN and they will enter it on your tax return.
Paper: Enter your IP PIN in the signature area of your tax return.
Your IP PIN is valid for the calendar year, not just the tax year. That means you will use the same number of any return you file that year, including prior year tax returns.
Important Note: The IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for your IP PIN. You should only share it with your tax preparer if you are filing with one.
What happens if I don’t enter my IP PIN on my tax return?
If you file electronically, your tax return will be automatically rejected if you don’t enter your IP PIN or enter the incorrect one. Everyone on the tax return who has an IP PIN must enter it, including spouse and dependents.
If you file by paper without your IP PIN, the IRS will take longer to process your tax return since they will require additional verification. Dependets aren’t required to have an IP PIN when filing by paper.
What happens if I lose my IP PIN?
If you have an account with the IRS, you can find your IP PIN through your online account by going to your profile and selecting the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) section. Those who received their IP PIN through the mail can also use this method.
For those without an online account or to retrieve a minor dependent's IP PIN, you can call the IRS at 800-908-4490. The IRS will mail your IP PIN within 21 days to the address on file if you can verify your identity.
Get Peace of Mind with Northside Tax Service
Enrolling in the IP PIN program is a great way to protect yourself from tax-related identity theft. For additional peace of mind, file with a trusted tax preparer. When you file your tax return with Northside Tax Service, we’ll make sure your information is handled securely and your IP PIN is used correctly.
If you need help filing your taxes this year, we can help! We offer in-office, drop off, and online tax filing options, making it easy to file when and where it’s most convenient for you. Give us a call at (360) 922-0235 to get started!
