How to Get Your IRS PIN Number for Tax Filing

The IRS sends you a PIN by mail if you need one, or you can create one yourself online through their secure portal

An IRS PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a six-digit code the IRS uses to verify your identity when you file taxes electronically or access your account online. You do not need one to file a basic tax return — most people file without one. You only need a PIN if the IRS has flagged your account for identity theft concerns, if you are filing after being a victim of tax fraud, or if you want extra security on your account.

The IRS offers two ways to get a PIN: they can mail one to you, or you can create one yourself right now through their online system. Which route you use depends on whether you already have an IRS online account and whether you need the PIN urgently.

Key Takeaways

You can create an IRS PIN yourself online through IRS.gov without waiting for mail, but you must first set up an IRS online account and verify your identity.
If the IRS mailed you a PIN notice, check the letter for the six-digit code — you do not need to request it again.
The IRS will mail you a PIN automatically if your account shows signs of identity theft, and you should use it when you file that year.
If you lost or forgot a PIN the IRS sent you, you can request a replacement by mail or create a new one online.
A PIN is optional for most filers; you only need one if the IRS required it or if you want to add security to your account.

Creating a PIN yourself through IRS.gov

The fastest way to get a PIN is to create one yourself on the IRS website. Go to IRS.gov, select "Sign in" at the top right, and choose "Create an account" if you do not already have one. The IRS will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or by uploading a photo of your ID.

Once your account is set up and verified, go to the "Tax records" section and look for "Self Select PIN." You can choose your own six-digit PIN right there. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe — you will enter it when you file your return electronically. This process takes about 15 minutes and you can do it any time of year.

If you already have an IRS online account but have never created a PIN, log in and go directly to the "Self Select PIN" option. You do not need to wait for anything in the mail.

Requesting a PIN by mail from the IRS

If you do not want to create one online or do not have internet access, you can request a PIN by mail. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and tell them you want to request a PIN. They will mail it to the address on file with your most recent tax return. The PIN arrives in a sealed envelope within two to three weeks.

You can also request a PIN by mail if you are filing a paper return. Include a note with your return asking the IRS to assign you a PIN, and they will mail it to you after they process your return.

If the IRS already sent you a PIN

The IRS mails a PIN to you automatically if they detect identity theft on your account or if you have been a victim of tax fraud in the past. The PIN comes in a letter marked "Important Tax Return Information." The six-digit code is printed in the letter itself.

Do not throw away this letter. Keep it with your tax documents. When you file your return that year, you must enter this PIN exactly as it appears in the letter. If you file without it, the IRS will reject your return.

If you received a PIN letter but cannot find it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and they can tell you what your PIN is or mail you a replacement.

What to do if you lost or forgot your PIN

If the IRS mailed you a PIN and you have lost the letter, do not panic. Call 1-800-829-1040 and provide your Social Security number and date of birth. The IRS representative can read your PIN to you over the phone, or they can mail a replacement letter.

If you created your own PIN online and forgot it, log back into your IRS account and go to "Self Select PIN" again. You can create a new one to replace the old one. The new PIN takes effect immediately.

Using your PIN when you file

When you file your tax return electronically, your tax software will ask for your PIN during the filing process. Enter it exactly as it appears — all six digits with no spaces or dashes. If you are filing a paper return, you do not enter a PIN anywhere on the form itself; the PIN is only for electronic filing.

If the IRS required you to use a PIN (because of identity theft concerns), filing without it will cause your return to be rejected. The IRS will send you a notice asking you to file again with the PIN included.

When you do not need a PIN

Most people who file taxes do not have a PIN and do not need one. You only need a PIN if:

The IRS mailed you one because of identity theft or fraud on your account.
You are filing after being a victim of tax-related identity theft.
You want to add an extra layer of security to your IRS account.

If none of these apply to you, you can file your return without a PIN. Your tax software will not require one, and the IRS will not ask for one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a PIN to file my taxes?

No, most people do not need a PIN to file. You only need one if the IRS mailed you one due to identity theft concerns, or if you want to add security to your account. If the IRS required a PIN, they will have sent you a letter saying so.

How long does it take to get a PIN from the IRS?

If you create one online through IRS.gov, you get it immediately. If you request one by phone, the IRS mails it to you within two to three weeks. If the IRS mailed you one automatically, it arrives within the same timeframe.

Can I use someone else's PIN to file their taxes?

No. A PIN is tied to one person's Social Security number and identity. You cannot use someone else's PIN, and they cannot use yours. If you are a tax preparer or family member filing for someone else, they must provide their own PIN if the IRS required one.

What if I file without my PIN when the IRS required one?

The IRS will reject your return. They will send you a notice explaining that a PIN is required. You will need to file again, this time entering the PIN. There is no penalty for the rejected filing — it simply does not process.

Can I change my PIN after I create it?

Yes. Log into your IRS account, go to "Self Select PIN," and create a new one. The new PIN replaces the old one immediately. If the IRS mailed you a PIN, you cannot change it yourself — you would need to call them to request a new one.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.