What an IRS Identity PIN is and why you might need one

An IRS Identity PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. If you have been a victim of identity theft, or if the IRS suspects your account has been compromised, they may require you to use a PIN when you file. You cannot choose your own PIN — the IRS generates it and sends it to you by mail.

The PIN is different from your Social Security number or any password you create. It is a one-time security measure tied to your specific tax account. Once the IRS assigns you a PIN, you must include it on your return every year until the IRS tells you to stop.

You do not request a PIN in the way you might request other documents. Instead, the IRS either assigns one to you automatically (if they detect fraud on your account) or you can ask for one through specific channels if you want extra protection.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS sends Identity PINs by mail only — there is no online way to request or receive one.
  • If the IRS detects fraud on your account, they will assign a PIN and mail it to the address on file; you do not have to request it.
  • You can request a PIN yourself through the IRS website using the Identity Protection PIN tool, but only if you have not already been assigned one.
  • Once you have a PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year, or the IRS will reject your filing.
  • The process takes several weeks because the PIN arrives by postal mail, not email.

How to request an Identity PIN through the IRS website

If you want to request a PIN before the IRS assigns one to you, go to irs.gov and look for the "Get an Identity Protection PIN" tool. This tool is available to anyone with a valid Social Security number and a filing history with the IRS. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history or tax records.

The tool will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address. It will then verify that information against IRS records. If verification succeeds, the IRS will generate a PIN and mail it to you. The entire online process takes a few minutes, but the PIN itself arrives by mail within two to four weeks.

You can only use this tool if you do not already have a PIN assigned to your account. If the IRS has already sent you one because of suspected fraud, you cannot request a second one through this method.

What happens if the IRS detects fraud on your account

If the IRS discovers that someone has filed a return using your Social Security number, or if they suspect your account has been compromised, they will automatically assign you an Identity PIN without you asking for one. The IRS will mail the PIN to the address they have on file for you.

When this happens, you will also receive a letter explaining that a PIN has been assigned and why. Read this letter carefully, because it will tell you when you must start using the PIN on your returns. In most cases, you must use it starting with your next tax return.

If you do not receive the PIN in the mail within the timeframe stated in the letter, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to confirm your mailing address and ask them to resend it. Do not file your return without the PIN if one has been assigned to you — the IRS will reject it.

How to use your PIN when you file your tax return

Once you have an Identity PIN, you must enter it on your tax return every year. The location depends on how you file. If you file on paper using Form 1040, there is a specific line for the Identity PIN near the top of the form. If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, the software will have a field where you enter the PIN before submission.

The PIN must match exactly what the IRS sent you. If you enter it incorrectly, the IRS will reject your return. If you have lost the PIN or cannot find it, you can request a replacement by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040, but this will delay your filing.

What to do if you never received your PIN in the mail

If the IRS told you a PIN was assigned but you have not received it after four weeks, first check that your mailing address is correct with the IRS. You can do this by logging into your IRS account at irs.gov using your credentials. If the address is wrong, update it immediately.

If the address is correct and you still have not received the PIN, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the letter from the IRS (if you received one) ready. The IRS can confirm whether the PIN was mailed and can request a replacement if needed.

Do not file your return without the PIN if one has been assigned to you. Filing without it will cause the IRS to reject your return, and you will have to resubmit it with the PIN once you receive it.

The difference between an Identity PIN and other IRS security measures

An Identity PIN is not the same as a password for your IRS online account, and it is not the same as a security code sent to your phone. The PIN is specifically for tax filing and appears on your return itself. A password protects your login to irs.gov. A security code (usually sent by text or email) verifies your identity when you log in online.

If you have set up a password and two-factor authentication on your IRS account, you have already taken steps to protect your account. An Identity PIN is an additional layer of protection, usually triggered by fraud or requested by you if you want extra security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my own Identity PIN?

No. The IRS generates the PIN and assigns it to you. You cannot select the number yourself. The PIN is mailed to you, and you must use the exact number the IRS provides.

What if I file my return and forget to include my PIN?

The IRS will reject your return if a PIN has been assigned to you and you do not include it. You will have to resubmit the return with the PIN. This delays processing and any refund you are owed.

Do I need an Identity PIN if I have never been a victim of identity theft?

You do not need one unless the IRS assigns one to you or you request one yourself. Requesting one is optional and is a choice some people make for extra security, but it is not required.

How long does it take to receive an Identity PIN after I request one?

The online request process takes a few minutes, but the PIN arrives by mail in two to four weeks. Plan ahead if you need it before tax season ends.

Can I get an Identity PIN by phone or email?

No. The IRS only issues Identity PINs by mail. You can request one online through irs.gov, but the PIN itself will be mailed to you. There is no phone or email method to receive it.