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

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number the IRS issues to you to prevent someone else from filing a tax return in your name. You enter it on your return each year instead of leaving that field blank. If a criminal tries to file using your Social Security number without the PIN, the IRS rejects their return.

You need an IP PIN if the IRS has already notified you that your identity was compromised, or if you want one as a preventive measure. The IRS does not automatically issue PINs — you request one. Once you have one, you must use it every year you file, or the IRS will reject your legitimate return.

The IRS stopped issuing PINs to all taxpayers in 2020 and now issues them only to people who have been victims of identity theft or who live in certain states where the IRS runs a pilot program. If you are not in either group, you cannot get one through the standard process.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS issues IP PINs only to people who have already reported identity theft or who live in a state running the IRS pilot program.
  • If the IRS notified you of a breach, you can request a PIN by mail, phone, or through your IRS online account.
  • You must use your IP PIN every year you file a tax return, or the IRS will reject it.
  • If you lose your PIN, you can retrieve it through your IRS online account or by calling the IRS at 1-800-908-4490.

How to request an IP PIN after identity theft

If the IRS has already told you your identity was stolen — usually by letter or by seeing a fraudulent return filed in your name — you can request an IP PIN through three routes: by mail, by phone, or through your IRS online account.

By phone, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 during business hours. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready. The IRS will verify your identity by asking questions about your tax history or recent returns. If you pass verification, they will issue a PIN on the spot and mail it to your address on file within two weeks.

By mail, send Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, to the IRS address listed in the form's instructions. Include a copy of any IRS letter you received about the theft, your police report if you filed one, and a copy of your driver's license or passport. Processing takes four to six weeks.

Through your IRS online account (irs.gov, under "View Your Tax Account"), you can request a PIN if the IRS has flagged your account for identity theft. Log in, navigate to the identity protection section, and follow the prompts. This route is fastest if your account is already set up.

What to do if you are in a state with the IRS pilot program

The IRS runs an IP PIN pilot program in a rotating set of states. Residents of those states can request an IP PIN even if they have not been victims of identity theft. The list of pilot states changes year to year and is published on irs.gov.

If your state is in the pilot, you can request a PIN by phone at 1-800-908-4490 or through your IRS online account. You will need to verify your identity the same way as someone reporting theft. The IRS will issue the PIN immediately by phone or mail it within two weeks if you request it online.

Check irs.gov/identity-protection-pin to see whether your state is currently in the pilot. If it is not, you cannot request a PIN unless you have reported identity theft to the IRS.

How to use your IP PIN when you file

When you file your tax return — whether by paper or electronically — you will see a field for your IP PIN. Enter all six digits. If you file electronically, the software will prompt you for it. If you file by paper, write it in the designated box on Form 1040 or whichever form you use.

Do not skip this field or leave it blank. If you have an IP PIN and do not enter it, the IRS will reject your return as incomplete. You will have to resubmit with the PIN included.

You must use the same PIN every year until the IRS tells you to stop. The IRS will notify you by letter when your PIN expires or is no longer needed.

If you lose or forget your IP PIN

If you have been issued an IP PIN but cannot find it, you can retrieve it through your IRS online account or by phone. Log into irs.gov, go to "View Your Tax Account," and look for the identity protection section. Your PIN will be displayed there.

By phone, call 1-800-908-4490 and verify your identity. The IRS will read your PIN to you over the phone. Write it down and keep it in a safe place — the IRS will not email it or send it by text.

If you need your PIN before filing season and cannot reach the IRS by phone, retrieve it through your online account. The online tool is available year-round.

What happens if someone files a return using your Social Security number

If a criminal files a return in your name without your IP PIN, the IRS will reject it automatically. You will not see any notice at first — the fraudulent return simply does not go through.

When you file your legitimate return with your IP PIN, it will be accepted. The IRS keeps no record of the rejected fraudulent return on your account.

If the criminal's return was processed before you filed yours — which can happen if you do not have an IP PIN yet — the IRS will eventually catch the duplicate and contact you. They will ask you to prove which return is legitimate. This process takes longer and creates more work for you, which is why getting a PIN after identity theft is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IP PIN if I have never been a victim of identity theft?

Only if your state is currently in the IRS pilot program. Otherwise, the IRS issues PINs only to people who have reported identity theft. Check irs.gov/identity-protection-pin to see if your state qualifies. If it does not, you cannot request one preventively.

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

The IRS will reject your return. You will receive a notice asking you to resubmit with the PIN included. Resubmit as soon as you can to avoid delays in processing your refund or payment.

Do I need an IP PIN if I use a tax preparer or CPA?

Yes. You must provide your IP PIN to your preparer, and they will enter it on your return. If you do not give it to them, your return will be rejected. Keep your PIN confidential — share it only with someone you trust to prepare your taxes.

How long does it take to get an IP PIN by mail?

Four to six weeks from the date the IRS receives your Form 14039. Mail it as early as possible if you plan to file by a certain date. If you need a PIN faster, call 1-800-908-4490 to request one by phone instead.

What if the IRS says I do not need an IP PIN anymore?

The IRS will send you a letter when your PIN expires. After that date, do not enter a PIN on your return — leave that field blank. If you enter an expired PIN, the IRS will reject your return.