Get an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS (Video)
The Internal Revenue Service has expanded the Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program to all taxpayers who can verify their identities.
The Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit code known only to the taxpayer and to the IRS. It helps prevent identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns using a taxpayers' personally identifiable information. Learn how to get one to protect your identity. (2021)
Get an Identity Protection PIN
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Important information about IP PINs
- An IP PIN is valid for one calendar year.
- A new IP PIN is generated each year for your account.
- If the IRS enrolled you into the IP PIN program due to being a confirmed victim of tax-related identity theft, we’ll mail you a CP01A Notice with your new IP PIN each year.
- Once you have opted in and obtained an IP PIN online, you will need to retrieve your IP PIN online each calendar year as a CP01A Notice will not be mailed.
- The IP PIN is generally available in your online account starting in mid-January through mid-November.
- Logging back into your online account, will display your current IP PIN through the Profile Tab.
- An IP PIN must be used when filing any federal tax returns during the year including prior year returns.
- FAQs about the identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN)
How to get an IP PIN
The fastest way to receive an IP PIN is to request one through your online account, in the IP PIN section of your profile page. If you don’t already have an account on IRS.gov, you must register to validate your identity.
Note: If you or your dependent are under age 18 and would like to request an IP PIN, you must use one of the alternative enrollment options described at https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin.
If you can’t enroll online
If you want an IP PIN but can’t successfully establish an online account, there are alternatives. Visit https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin for information on alternative methods for obtaining an ID PIN.
Using an IP PIN to file
Enter the six-digit IP PIN when prompted by your tax software product or provide it to your trusted tax professional preparing your tax return. The IP PIN is used only on Forms 1040, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, 1040-SR, and 1040-SS.
Correct IP PINs must be entered on electronic and paper tax returns to avoid rejections and delays. An incorrect or missing IP PIN will result in the rejection of your e-filed return or a delay of your paper return until it can be verified.
Don’t reveal your IP PIN to anyone. It should be known only to your tax professional and only when you are ready to sign and submit your return. The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN. Phone calls, emails or texts asking for your IP PIN are scams.
Lost IP PINs
Review Retrieve your IP PIN for details. Do not file a Form 15227 to apply for a new IP PIN.