Your IRS PIN is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to you to verify your identity when you file taxes online or contact them by phone

The IRS PIN (Personal Identification Number) is not something you create yourself — the IRS generates it and sends it to you, or you can request one. You'll need it if you file your taxes electronically, want to set up an online account with the IRS, or need to prove who you are during a phone call with the agency. If you've never received a PIN or can't find yours, there are specific ways to locate it or request a new one.

The PIN serves as a second layer of identity verification beyond your Social Security number. This is especially important if you're concerned about tax identity theft or if the IRS has flagged your account for security reasons.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IRS PIN is a six-digit number sent to you by mail by the IRS, usually in a document called a "Notice of Assigned Self-Select PIN" or similar correspondence.
  • You can create a self-selected PIN through your IRS online account at IRS.gov if you've already set one up, or request one by mail using Form 4506-C.
  • If you believe someone has stolen your identity or filed taxes in your name, the IRS will assign you a PIN automatically and mail it to you.
  • The PIN is required when filing electronically through tax software or when calling the IRS to discuss your account.
  • If you lose your PIN, you can request a new one through your IRS account, by phone, or by mail — the process takes several weeks by mail.

Where to find a PIN the IRS already sent you

If the IRS has already assigned you a PIN, look for it in the mail you received from them. The PIN typically appears in a letter or notice from the IRS, often labeled as your "Self-Select PIN" or "Assigned PIN." Check any official IRS correspondence you've received in the past year, especially if you've filed taxes before or contacted the IRS about your account.

The PIN is usually a six-digit number printed clearly on the document. If you filed taxes last year and the IRS sent you a notice about your return, the PIN may be included in that mailing. Keep these documents in a safe place — you'll need the PIN each time you file electronically or verify your identity with the IRS.

How to create or request a PIN through your IRS account

If you have an IRS online account at IRS.gov, you can create or view your PIN directly. Log in to your account, look for the section labeled "Tax Records" or "Account Settings," and select the option to view or create your Self-Select PIN. The IRS will walk you through a few security questions to confirm your identity, and then you can either see your existing PIN or create a new one on the spot.

Creating a PIN this way is immediate — you don't have to wait for mail. Write down the PIN you create and store it somewhere secure. If you don't have an IRS online account yet, you'll need to set one up first using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. The account setup process itself requires identity verification through a third-party service.

Requesting a PIN by mail if you don't have online access

If you prefer not to use an online account or cannot access one, you can request a PIN by mail. Complete IRS Form 4506-C (Request for Transcript of Tax Record) and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form. You don't need to request a full transcript — simply indicate that you want a PIN assigned or reissued to you.

The IRS will process your request and mail the PIN to the address on file with your tax return. This process typically takes two to four weeks. Include a note with your form explaining that you're requesting a PIN for identity verification purposes. Keep a copy of what you send for your records.

What to do if you think your PIN has been compromised

If you believe someone else knows your PIN or has used it to file taxes in your name, contact the IRS immediately. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (the main tax line) and explain that you suspect identity theft. The IRS can place a flag on your account and issue you a new PIN.

You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov, which creates an official record of the theft. The IRS and FTC coordinate on identity theft cases, so reporting to both agencies ensures your case is documented. Request a new PIN as soon as possible and use it for all future filings and communications with the IRS.

PIN requirements when filing taxes electronically

Most tax software and e-filing services will ask for your PIN during the filing process. You'll enter it as part of the authentication step before your return is submitted to the IRS. If you don't have a PIN, many software programs will let you proceed without one, but the IRS recommends having one for added security.

If you file through a tax professional or preparer, they may ask you for your PIN as well. Never share your PIN with anyone except a tax preparer you trust completely, and only when you're actively working with them on your return. The IRS will never ask for your PIN unsolicited by phone or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any six-digit number as my PIN, or does the IRS assign it?

You can create your own six-digit PIN through your IRS online account (called a "Self-Select PIN"), or the IRS can assign one to you. Either way, once it's created or assigned, that's the PIN linked to your account. You cannot change it to a different number on your own — you'd have to request a new PIN through the IRS.

What if I file taxes without a PIN?

You can file electronically without a PIN in most cases — tax software will allow you to proceed. However, the IRS recommends using one for security. If you file without a PIN and later need to contact the IRS or update your account, you may be asked to provide one or create one at that time.

How long does it take to get a PIN if I request one by mail?

Mailed requests typically take two to four weeks for the IRS to process and mail the PIN back to you. If you need a PIN more quickly, creating one through your online IRS account is immediate. If you don't have an online account, setting one up and creating a PIN through it is faster than waiting for mail.

Is my PIN the same as my password for my IRS account?

No. Your password is what you use to log into your IRS online account. Your PIN is a separate six-digit number used for filing taxes and verifying your identity over the phone. You need both to access your account and file securely.

What should I do if I never received a PIN in the mail?

Check your mail carefully — it may have arrived in an envelope that looks like routine IRS correspondence. If you're certain you didn't receive it, create one through your IRS online account, or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request a new one. The IRS can confirm whether a PIN was mailed to you and resend it if needed.